How to perform Cable Skullcrusher with proper form
Setup
- Attach a straight bar or EZ-bar to the high pulley of a cable machine.
- Stand or sit facing away from the machine, grasping the bar with an overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart.
Positioning
- Step back slightly to create tension in the cable.
- Lower the bar so that your arms are fully extended and perpendicular to the floor, elbows close to your head.
Execution
- Keeping your elbows stationary, bend them to lower the bar towards your forehead.
- Ensure your upper arms remain close to your head, focusing on moving only at the elbows.
- Lower the bar until your forearms are parallel to the floor or just above your forehead.
Return
- Extend your arms back to the starting position while maintaining tension in the triceps.
- Avoid locking out your elbows at the top to keep tension on the muscles.
Tips
- Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement.
- Focus on a controlled motion; avoid using momentum.
- Keep your core engaged for stability.
Common Mistakes
- Flaring elbows out; keep them tucked in.
- Using too much weight, compromising form.
- Not controlling the descent, leading to poor muscle engagement.
Conclusion
Perform the Cable Skullcrusher with attention to form to effectively target the triceps while minimizing the risk of injury.
Exercises

Ab Wheel, Bodyweight
Type: Core
Target: Abs
Synergist: Hamstrings, Quadriceps, Shoulders, Back, Chest

Arnold Press, Dumbbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Chest, Triceps

Arnold Press, Kettlebell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Chest, Triceps

Around The World, Dumbbell
Type: Core
Target: Shoulders, Chest
Synergist: Back

Back Extension, Bodyweight
Type: Lower, Core
Target: Back
Synergist: Glutes, Hamstrings

Back Extension, Leverage Machine
Type: Lower, Core
Target: Back
Synergist: Glutes, Hamstrings

Ball Slams, Medicine Ball
Type: Core, Upper
Target: Shoulders, Back
Synergist: Chest, Abs

Battle Ropes, Bodyweight
Type: Upper, Core
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Biceps, Forearms, Back

Behind The Neck Press, Barbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Triceps

Behind The Neck Press, Smith Machine
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Triceps

Behind The Neck Press, Band
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Triceps

Bench Dip, Bodyweight
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Back, Chest

Bench Press, Barbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Chest
Synergist: Shoulders, Triceps

Bench Press, Cable
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Chest
Synergist: Shoulders, Triceps

Bench Press, Dumbbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Chest
Synergist: Shoulders, Triceps

Bench Press, Smith Machine
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Chest
Synergist: Shoulders, Triceps

Bench Press, Band
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Chest
Synergist: Shoulders, Triceps

Bench Press, Kettlebell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Chest
Synergist: Shoulders, Triceps

Bench Press Close Grip, Barbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Chest

Bench Press Close Grip, Smith Machine
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Chest