TETSUBarbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher vs Cable Kickback
The Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher and the Cable Kickback both train the triceps as their primary muscle. The Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher uses a barbell while the Cable Kickback uses a cable. Here is how they compare and when to pick each.
Side-by-side comparison
| Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher | Cable Kickback | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary muscle | triceps | triceps |
| Body part | upper arms | upper arms |
| Supporting muscles | forearms | shoulders |
| Equipment | barbell | cable |
| Steps in our guide | 6 | 7 |
How each one starts
Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher — first steps
- Lie flat on a bench with your feet flat on the ground and your head at the end of the bench.
- Hold the barbell with a reverse grip, palms facing towards your face, and your hands shoulder-width apart.
Cable Kickback — first steps
- Stand facing a cable machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Hold the cable handle with your right hand and step back to create tension in the cable.
Full step-by-step guides are linked below.
Which should you choose?
The Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps. The Cable Kickback keeps constant tension on the muscle through the whole range of motion. If your gym has both options, neither is a wrong choice: pick the one that feels strongest through a full range, and swap after 6 to 8 weeks to keep the triceps adapting.
Full form guides
Common questions
Is the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher better than the Cable Kickback?
Neither is universally better — both train the triceps as the primary mover. The Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps, while the Cable Kickback keeps constant tension on the muscle through the whole range of motion. Choose based on your equipment and which movement you can progress consistently.
Can I do both the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher and the Cable Kickback in the same program?
Yes, but usually not in the same session — they overlap heavily on the triceps. A common setup is one as your main movement and the other on a second training day, or alternating them block by block.
Do the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher and the Cable Kickback work the same muscles?
The primary muscle is the same: the triceps. Supporting muscles differ slightly — forearms for the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher versus shoulders for the Cable Kickback.
Track it in Tetsu
Tetsu tracks both movements separately, keeps your PRs per exercise, and tells you which one is actually progressing. Free to start.