Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher
Description
The barbell reverse grip skull crusher is a lying tricep extension performed with a supinated (underhand/reverse) grip instead of the standard overhand grip. The reverse grip is often more comfortable on the wrists and shifts emphasis slightly differently across the tricep heads.
Muscle Group
Equipment Required
Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher Instructions
- Lie on a flat bench. Hold a barbell with an underhand (supinated) grip, hands shoulder-width apart.
- Press the bar up above your chest with arms extended.
- Bend at the elbows to lower the bar toward your forehead. Keep your upper arms vertical.
- Lower until the bar is just above your forehead.
- Extend your elbows to press back up to lockout.
- The underhand grip may feel more natural for some lifters.
- Use a spotter or safety pins for safety.
- Use moderate weight. Aim for 10 to 12 reps.
Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher Form & Visual
Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher Benefits
- Often more comfortable on the wrists
- Different tricep emphasis than overhand grip
- Builds tricep size and strength
- Useful variation for tricep programming
- Reduces wrist strain for some lifters
- Allows heavy tricep loading
Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher Muscles Worked
- Triceps brachii (all heads)
- Anconeus
Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher Variations & Alternatives
- Barbell Lying Extension (overhand)
- Dumbbell Lying Tricep Extension
- EZ Bar Skull Crusher
- Reverse Grip Cable Pushdown
- Incline Reverse Grip Skull Crusher
