If you want explosive power and definition in your triceps, you need to know about the dumbbell skull crusher. This guide introduces you to this terrific movement and outlines everything you need to know. It delves into why this power move is gaining popularity, correct form tips, and a few selection pointers. So, if you’re ready to upgrade your upper body workouts, let’s get started!
Table of Contents:
1. What is the dumbbell skull crusher?
2. The popularity of the dumbbell skull crusher
3. Is the dumbbell skull crusher good?
4. How to choose the right dumbbells for skull crushers
5. How to use the dumbbell skull crusher
What is the dumbbell skull crusher?
![A fit and handsome asian guy does Stability Ball Dumbbell Chest Press](https://img.baba-blog.com/2024/06/A-fit-and-handsome-asian-guy-does-Stability-Ball-Dumbbell-Chest-Press.jpeg?x-oss-process=style%2Ffull)
A weightlifting exercise, the dumbbell skull crusher is, as the name suggests, a workout involving weights and the forehead. Performed by lying on a bench, while extending weights above the head towards the forehead by bending the elbows, a person can then push the weights back to the starting position. This is done multiple times, with several repetitions completed in order to promote the strengthening of the triceps muscles, which are on the back of the upper arm. It’s also worth noting that there is no risk of skull damage which may be implied by the name of this exercise – although it is important to remain cautious and perform this motion with proper form.
The popularity of the dumbbell skull crusher
![Back view of fit muscular female doing dumbbell overhead triceps extension exercise during functional workout in gym](https://img.baba-blog.com/2024/06/Back-view-of-fit-muscular-female-doing-dumbbell-overhead-triceps-extension-exercise-during-functional-workout-in-gym.jpeg?x-oss-process=style%2Ffull)
The dumbbell skull crusher found huge acceptance in bodybuilders and fitness culture in general for developing triceps using only one tool The reason this piece of equipment is so widespread (very recently there was a review about the best skull crushers) is due to the fact that it is very simple in its execution, effective, adaptable for beginners as well as for professional athletes and easy to be performed at home since it requires only the very basic type of make-shift training tool.
Is the dumbbell skull crusher good?
![Fitness asian woman doing exercise](https://img.baba-blog.com/2024/06/Fitness-asian-woman-doing-exercise.jpeg?x-oss-process=style%2Ffull)
Not only is the dumbbell skull crusher a good exercise for tricep hypertrophy and strength, it’s a great exercise. It’s a fantastic exercise for people who want to build their triceps into big, strong, bodies – not just muscles but a priority muscle of the upper body. It’ll improve aesthetics for your arms. It’s going to improve upper body strength and help you with those other lifts you might do. It will help you improve functional performance – how you perform in other lifts or in your daily life. So the triceps go through a little bit of an isolation but perfect joint isolation as far as creating good joint alignment throughout the movement. You’re training these muscles correctly without developing muscle imbalances. And finally, if executed with proper technique, it’s a great exercise, because you’re not stressing the wrists or the elbows. That’s why we have skull crushers in so many strength training programmes.
How to choose the right dumbbells for skull crushers
![Man's hands lifting dumbbells](https://img.baba-blog.com/2024/06/Mans-hands-lifting-dumbbells.jpeg?x-oss-process=style%2Ffull)
In order to get the most out of the movement and to minimise the injury risk, pick the appropriate dumbbells. A good idea is to start by choosing weights that will help you perform the exercise with proper form for 8-12 repetitions. If you’re new to the exercise, it’s better to start with lighter weights and only after you feel comfortable with the movement can you add more weight to the bar. Adjustable dumbbells are particularly useful when it comes to the skull crushers, since you can progressively add more weight as you get stronger. When it comes to the grip and the dumbbell shape, the more comfortable the grip, the better your control and performance will be while doing the movement.
How to use the dumbbell skull crusher
![One woman mature caucasian female slim hands hold dumbbell while training at home](https://img.baba-blog.com/2024/06/One-woman-mature-caucasian-female-slim-hands-hold-dumbbell-while-training-at-home.jpeg?x-oss-process=style%2Ffull)
If you want to do a dumbbell skull crusher, lie on a bench, holding a dumbbell in each hand above your chest with your arms straight and palms facing each other. Keep your upper arms by your sides. Bend your elbows and lower the dumbbells towards your forehead. Stop just short of your forehead; press your biceps together in a flexed position and squeeze your triceps. Lower the dumbbells back in control to the start position with a slight flex of your triceps.
Conclusion:
Are you looking for a way to develop strong and well-defined triceps? Then the dumbbell skull crusher is the golden ticket to achieving those goals. Irrespective of your experience level, this exercise is suitable due to its simplicity, efficacy, versatility and a host of other benefits, including body sculpting. With the right weights and the correct form, you can safely add the dumbbell skull crusher to your upper body workout regimen without fear of injury. With either a pair of light or heavy weights, this skull crusher exercise will definitely help you reach your fitness goals quickly. So, give it a try! The dumbbell skull crusher is a must-try for everyone who is serious about improving their physical fitness.