What To Know
- The close grip bench press is a compound exercise that works the triceps, chest, and shoulders.
- If you’re looking to build overall upper body strength and mass, the close grip bench press is a better choice.
The close grip bench press and skull crushers are two exercises that target the triceps. While both exercises have their benefits, there are some key differences between them. In this blog post, we’ll compare and contrast the two exercises so you can decide which one is right for you.
Close Grip Bench Press
The close grip bench press is a compound exercise that works the triceps, chest, and shoulders. It’s a great exercise for building overall upper body strength and mass.
Benefits of the Close Grip Bench Press
- Builds mass and strength in the triceps, chest, and shoulders.
- Improves overall upper body strength and power.
- Can be used to increase bench press strength.
- Relatively easy to learn and perform.
How to Perform the Close Grip Bench Press
1. Lie down on a bench with your feet flat on the floor.
2. Grip the bar with your hands shoulder-width apart, with your thumbs wrapped around the bar.
3. Lower the bar to your chest, keeping your elbows tucked in.
4. Press the bar back up to the starting position.
Skull Crushers
Skull crushers are an isolation exercise that targets the triceps. They’re a great exercise for building tricep size and definition.
Benefits of Skull Crushers
- Builds mass and definition in the triceps.
- Improves tricep strength and power.
- Can be used to increase overhead press strength.
- Relatively easy to learn and perform.
How to Perform Skull Crushers
1. Sit on a bench with your feet flat on the floor.
2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, with your palms facing each other.
3. Raise the dumbbells overhead, keeping your elbows tucked in.
4. Lower the dumbbells behind your head, keeping your elbows tucked in.
5. Raise the dumbbells back up to the starting position.
Close Grip Bench Press vs Skull Crushers: Which Exercise is Better?
So, which exercise is better, the close grip bench press or skull crushers? The answer depends on your individual goals. If you’re looking to build overall upper body strength and mass, the close grip bench press is a better choice. If you’re looking to build tricep size and definition, skull crushers are a better choice.
However, it’s important to note that both exercises have their benefits. If you’re serious about building triceps, you should incorporate both exercises into your training program.
How to Choose the Right Exercise for You
When choosing between the close grip bench press and skull crushers, there are a few factors to consider:
- Your fitness goals. What are you trying to achieve with your training? Are you looking to build overall upper body strength and mass, or are you looking to build tricep size and definition?
- Your fitness level. If you’re new to weightlifting, the close grip bench press is a better choice. It’s a compound exercise that works multiple muscle groups, and it’s easier to learn and perform than skull crushers.
- Your equipment. If you don’t have access to a bench, you can still do skull crushers using dumbbells.
Wrap-Up: The Best Exercise for Triceps
The close grip bench press and skull crushers are both effective exercises for building triceps. The best exercise for you depends on your individual goals, fitness level, and equipment. If you’re not sure which exercise is right for you, talk to a qualified personal trainer.
What You Need to Know
1. What’s the difference between the close grip bench press and skull crushers?
The close grip bench press is a compound exercise that works the triceps, chest, and shoulders. Skull crushers are an isolation exercise that targets the triceps.
2. Which exercise is better for building triceps?
If you’re looking to build tricep size and definition, skull crushers are a better choice.
3. Which exercise is better for building overall upper body strength?
If you’re looking to build overall upper body strength and mass, the close grip bench press is a better choice.
4. Can I do both exercises in the same workout?
Yes, you can do both exercises in the same workout. However, it’s important to give your triceps enough rest between sets and exercises.
5. How often should I do these exercises?
You can do these exercises 2-3 times per week.
