Barbell Lying Triceps Extension
Barbell Lying Triceps Extension demonstration

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Barbell Lying Triceps Extension
- Slowly bend your elbows to lower the barbell towards your forehead, keeping your upper arms stationary and ensuring the movement is only happening at your elbow joints.
- Pause for a moment when the barbell is an inch or so away from your forehead.
- Then, use your triceps to return the barbell back to the starting position, fully extending your arms but without locking your elbows.
- Repeat these steps for your desired number of repetitions, ensuring to keep your movements controlled and steady throughout the exercise.
Tips for Performing Barbell Lying Triceps Extension
- Avoid Locking Elbows: A common mistake many people make is locking their elbows at the top of the movement. This can put unnecessary strain on your elbow joints and may lead to injury. Instead, keep a slight bend in your elbows even at the top of the movement.
- Control the Weight: Another common mistake is letting the weight control you, especially during the downward phase of the exercise. It's essential to control the weight on the way down, using a slow, controlled motion. This not only prevents injury but also ensures your muscles are working effectively throughout the entire exercise.
- Warm up and Stretch
Can beginners do the Barbell Lying Triceps Extension?
Yes, beginners can do the Barbell Lying Triceps Extension exercise. However, it's recommended to start with a lighter weight to ensure proper form and technique, thereby reducing the risk of injury. It's also beneficial to have a personal trainer or experienced gym-goer supervise the first few attempts to ensure the exercise is being done correctly. As with any new exercise, beginners should start slowly and gradually increase the weight as their strength and confidence improve.
What are common variations of the Barbell Lying Triceps Extension?
- Incline Barbell Lying Triceps Extension: This variation is performed on an incline bench which targets the triceps from a different angle, emphasizing the upper portion of the triceps muscle.
- Close-Grip Barbell Lying Triceps Extension: This variation involves holding the barbell with a closer grip, which places more emphasis on the medial head of the triceps.
- Skull Crushers: This is a popular variation where the barbell is lowered towards the forehead instead of behind the head, hence the name "skull crushers."
- EZ Bar Lying Triceps Extension: This variation uses an EZ curl bar, which has a unique W-shaped grip that allows for a more comfortable hand position, reducing strain on the wrists and elbows.



