Cable Incline Skull-Crusher
Isolate and build your triceps with the Cable Incline Skull-Crusher. Target those muscles with controlled movements for maximum gains.
The Cable Incline Skull-Crusher is a compound exercise that mainly works the triceps, with help from the back. You'll need: incline bench or rope attachment or straight bar attachment or cable machine.
Required Equipment




Cable Incline Skull-Crusher Muscles Worked
Primary
Triceps (triceps brachii)
Secondary
Lats (latissimus dorsi)
Cable Incline Skull-Crusher Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Cable Incline Skull-Crusher
Cable Incline Skull Crusher
Adjustable bench
Positioning
Adjust the Bench: Set the bench to an incline, typically at a 30 to 45-degree angle.
Setup the Cable Machine: Attach the rope or straight bar attachment to the high pulley of the cable machine.
Position Yourself: Sit on the inclined bench with your back supported. Adjust your position so that your head is just above the backrest.
Movement Instructions
Grip the Cable: Grab the cable attachment with both hands, using a neutral grip (palms facing each other for the rope, palms facing down for the bar).
Starting Position: Extend your arms above your chest with your elbows slightly bent. Your arms should be in line with your shoulders.
Lower the Weight: Inhale and slowly bend your elbows to lower the cable attachment towards your forehead. Keep your elbows stationary; only your forearms should move.
Return to Start: Once your forearms are close to your forehead, exhale and extend your arms back to the starting position, maintaining control of the weight throughout the movement.
Repetitions: Perform 8 to 12 repetitions based on your fitness level.
Tips
Keep your movements slow and controlled to focus on the triceps and avoid using momentum.
Make sure to keep your elbows close to your head throughout the exercise to maximize effectiveness and minimize shoulder strain.
Adjust the weight on the cable machine to ensure you can perform the exercise with proper form.
Cable Incline Skull-Crusher FAQs
What muscles does the Cable Incline Skull-Crusher work?
The Cable Incline Skull-Crusher mainly works the triceps, with help from the back. The main muscles are the triceps brachii.
What equipment do you need for the Cable Incline Skull-Crusher?
Incline bench or rope attachment or straight bar attachment or cable machine.
Is the Cable Incline Skull-Crusher a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Cable Incline Skull-Crusher go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Cable Incline Skull-Crusher variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Band Skull-Crusher, Barbell Incline Triceps Extension Skull-Crusher, Barbell Skullcrusher and Bodyweight Skullcrusher.
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