Lying Triceps Extension

  • Targeted Muscles:
    • Triceps
  • Additional Muscles:
    • Forearm flexors
  • For a more intense exercise, you can perform the seated barbell triceps extension. Pick up a barbell with your hands shoulder width apart and your palms facing down. Sit on a bench with a back support and place your feet together. Straighten your arms to lift the bar directly over your head, with you elbows pointing forward and slightly bent. Slowly lower the bar behind you by bending your elbows until they are at 90 degree angles.
  • To work one arm at a time, you can perform the lying dumbbell triceps extension. Pick up a dumbbell in one hand and lie on a bench. Straighten your arm to raise the weight directly over your shoulder, with your elbow slightly bent and your palm facing inward. Your other arm can rest at your side or support your raised upper arm. Slowly bend your arm to lower the weight beside your head. This variation helps correct any imbalances in your triceps and forearm muscles.
  • The lying barbell triceps extension is an advanced exercise that works your triceps and forearms. This exercise, which is also known as French Press or the Skull Crusher, strengthens and builds mass in your triceps.
  • You should use a shorter barbell to perform this exercise. If you find the barbell too heavy, you can use EZ curl bar instead. You will need to grasp the straight part of the EZ curl bar, just inside the curves.
  • As you perform the lying barbell triceps extension, focus on keeping your upper arms stationary as you lower the bar. Stop lowering the bar a few inches above your forehead so that you do not accidentally hit your head. Do not lift your head or arch your back off the bench in order to lift and lower the bar.
  • Be careful performing the lying barbell triceps extension if you are a beginner or if you have problems with your shoulders or elbows. This exercise could make existing elbow problems worse if it is not performed properly.
  • Do not move your upper arms during the exercise.
  • Do not lock your elbows when you straighten your arms.
  • Do not lift your head off the bench.
  • Do not arch your back to help lift the weight.
  • Do not bend your wrists.