How to do the barbell skullcrusher

Step by step

1. Load a straight bar, lift it off the floor, and support it in front of your chest.
2. Carefully sit on a flat gym bench and lie back while keeping the bar close to your torso.
3. Extend your arms and bring your shoulders back. Plant your feet on the floor.
4. Take a breath and lower the barbell to your forehead or behind your head.
5. Pause for a moment and extend your arms while keeping your elbows in position. Exhale near the top.

Muscles worked

Sets and reps

Pick the row that matches your goal. Add weight or reps once every set feels controlled, and log each set so you can see the trend.

Programs that use the barbell skullcrusher

• V-Taper Aesthetic3 × 10
• PPLUL3 × 10
• Arnold Split4 × 10
• Upper / Lower Hypertrophy3 × 10

Track your progress

Repto shows what you lifted on your last session for every set, suggests your next weight, and starts the rest timer when you tick the set. Your estimated 1-rep max and volume for each exercise are charted over time.