Lying triceps extensions

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Please improve this article if you can. (August 2006)

Lying triceps extensions, also known as skull crushers and French extensions, is one of the most stimulating exercises to the entire triceps muscle group in the upper arm. It works the triceps from your elbow all the way to your latissimus dorsi.

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[edit] Execution

Lying triceps extension exercise
Lying triceps extension exercise
  1. Lie on a flat bench with your feet on the ground and your head hanging just off the top of the bench, so that the edge of the bench rests in the pit between your neck and head.
  2. Take your barbell (preferably an EZ Curl bar for optimal hand positioning) with an overhand grip (palms AWAY from you) and hold it out above your head so that your arms are supporting the weight. Do NOT hold your arms straight over your face at 12:00, but rather at an angle more like 10 o'clock, with your feet at 3:00. All of the weight should be on your triceps.
  3. Now bend your arms at your elbow, bringing the bar down close to the top of your forehead.
  4. Keep your elbows in the same position and don’t let them sway outward.
  5. Press back up to starting 10 o’clock position.

[edit] Variations

[edit] Vertical French extension

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.

[edit] Important Notes

  • Make sure your elbows don’t move too much, try to keep them the same width apart during the whole movement.
  • Another variation is one done with dumbbells.