Exercise Comparison
Band Skull Crusher vs Incline Barbell Triceps Extension
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Incline Barbell Triceps Extension
Instructions
Band Skull Crusher
Secure a band to the base of a rack or the bench. Lay on the bench so that the band is lined up with your head.
Take hold of the band, raising your elbows so that the upper arm is perpendicular to the floor. With the elbow flexed, the band should be above your head. This will be your starting position.
Extend through the elbow to straighten your arm, keeping your upper arm in place. Pause at the top of the motion, and return to the starting position.
Incline Barbell Triceps Extension
Hold a barbell with an overhand grip (palms down) that is a little closer together than shoulder width.
Lie back on an incline bench set at any angle between 45-75-degrees.
Bring the bar overhead with your arms extended and elbows in. The arms should be in line with the torso above the head. This will be your starting position.
Now lower the bar in a semicircular motion behind your head until your forearms touch your biceps. Inhale as you perform this movement. Tip: Keep your upper arms stationary and close to your head at all times. Only the forearms should move.
Return to the starting position as you breathe out and you contract the triceps. Hold the contraction for a second.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Verdict
Both exercises target the triceps. Band Skull Crusher is a beginner exercise using bands, while Incline Barbell Triceps Extension is intermediate and uses barbell. Choose Band Skull Crusher if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Incline Barbell Triceps Extension for a greater challenge.