French curl

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The French curl is a type of weight training exercise, primarily targeting the triceps muscles. It can be performed either with a barbell or two dumbbells.

1. In a supine position (laying on your back), hold the weight at arms length over your head. Keep your elbows just short of locked. 2. Slowly bend your elbow--moving your upper arm as little as possible--to lower the weight to just behind/above the head. 3. Extend your arms, raising the weight over your face.

Variation: Vertical French Curl In this variation, the exercise is performed while standing (or sitting on a device with a low backing--that allows your shoulders full range of movement). With respect to gravity, the weight is still lifted in the same manner. With respect to the body, the weight is instead held over the head rather than over the face.

As with all weight training movements, it is important to keep the weight under smooth control on both the way down and the way up. This exercise can be performed standing, sitting or lying on one's back. As with most weight training exercises, it is recommended to start off with a lighter weight and then to gradually increase the weight as the muscles get stronger.

Note: This exercise is sometimes known as a skullcrusher or "nose-breaker".