Bicep Curl (Trap Bar)
An isolation exercise using the trap bar's neutral grip to target the biceps with less wrist strain than traditional barbell curls.
Instructions
- Stand inside the trap bar with feet hip-width apart.
- Grip both handles with a neutral grip (palms facing each other), arms at your sides.
- Keep your upper arms stationary and curl the handles up toward your shoulders.
- Squeeze your biceps at the top of the movement.
- Lower the weight under control back to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Tips
- Keep your elbows tucked against your torso throughout the movement.
- Avoid using momentum or swinging the weight.
- The neutral grip reduces wrist stress compared to a standard barbell curl.
- Focus on the muscle contraction rather than how much weight you use.
- Full range of motion from full extension to full contraction maximizes bicep development.
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 | 27.5 kg | 17.5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps | 25 kg | 17.5 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps | 20 kg | 12.5 kg |
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