Bicep Curl (Barbell)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
barbell
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
Bicep Curl (Barbell)Bicep Curl (Barbell)

A biceps curl performed with a barbell where the bar is lifted by bending the elbows while keeping upper arms stationary.

Instructions

  1. Stand up with your torso upright while holding a barbell at a shoulder-width grip. The palm of your hands should be facing forward and the elbows should be close to the torso. This will be your starting position.
  2. While holding the upper arms stationary, curl the weights forward while contracting the biceps as you breathe out. Tip: Only the forearms should move.
  3. Continue the movement until your biceps are fully contracted and the bar is at shoulder level. Hold the contracted position for a second and squeeze the biceps hard.
  4. Slowly begin to bring the bar back to starting position as your breathe in.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 9 reps 17.5 kg 10 kg
Build muscle 3 13 reps 15 kg 10 kg
Build endurance 3 16 reps 12.5 kg 7.5 kg

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