Appears in642 Workouts*

Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher

Target the triceps' long head with this incline variation. The neutral grip and 45-degree angle maximize stretch and tension for superior isolation and overhead arm development.

The Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher mainly works the triceps, with help from the shoulders. You'll need: dumbbells and incline bench.

Whitney Simmons
Whitney Simmons
@Whitney Simmons

Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Incline Bench
Incline Bench

Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher Muscles Worked

Primary

Triceps (triceps brachii)

Secondary

Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid)

How to do the Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher

Setup

  1. Set an adjustable incline bench to a roughly 45-degree angle.

  2. Sit on the bench with your upper back and head firmly supported against the backrest.

  3. Grab a pair of dumbbells of suitable weight and hold them with a neutral grip (palms facing each other) at arm's length directly above your shoulders.

Execution

  1. Keep your upper arms stationary throughout the movement; your elbows should point forward and remain fixed in space.

  2. Inhale as you slowly bend your elbows, lowering the dumbbells behind your head until your forearms and upper arms form approximately a 90-degree angle.

  3. Exhale and drive through your triceps to extend your arms, returning the dumbbells to the starting position directly above your shoulders.

  4. Ensure your wrists remain straight and do not move throughout the entire repetition.

Tips for Success

  • Focus on quality of movement rather than heavy weight; keeping the upper arms still is key to effective isolation.

  • The incline angle provides a unique resistance profile compared to a flat bench, keeping constant tension on the long head of the triceps.

Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher work?

The Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher mainly works the triceps, with help from the shoulders. The main muscles are the triceps brachii.

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher?

Dumbbells and incline bench.

What workout day should the Dumbbell Bench Incline Neutral-Grip Skullcrusher go on?

It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.

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