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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.

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Required Equipment

Cable Machine
Cable Machine
Incline Bench
Incline Bench
Rope Attachment
Rope Attachment
Straight Bar Attachment
Straight Bar Attachment

Cable Incline Skull-Crusher Muscles Worked

Primary

Triceps (triceps brachii)

Secondary

Lats (latissimus dorsi)

How to do the Cable Incline Skull-Crusher

Cable Incline Skull Crusher

  • Adjustable bench

Positioning

  1. Adjust the Bench: Set the bench to an incline, typically at a 30 to 45-degree angle.

  2. Setup the Cable Machine: Attach the rope or straight bar attachment to the high pulley of the cable machine.

  3. 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

  1. 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).

  2. Starting Position: Extend your arms above your chest with your elbows slightly bent. Your arms should be in line with your shoulders.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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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