Lying Close-Grip Bar Curl On High Pulley

A bicep curl variation performed lying on a bench with a high cable pulley attachment using a close grip. This position emphasizes constant tension and isolates the biceps.
Instructions
- Place a flat bench in front of a high pulley cable machine
- Hold the straight bar attachment with an underhand grip at shoulder width
- Lie on your back with your head over the end of the bench
- Extend your arms straight above your shoulders at a 90-degree angle with elbows in
- Curl the bar down in a semicircular motion toward your chin
- Lower the bar until it touches or nearly touches your chin
- Squeeze the biceps hard at the fully contracted position
- Return to starting position slowly
Tips
- Only the forearms should move; upper arms remain perpendicular to your torso
- The high pulley position creates constant tension throughout the range
- Keep your elbows stationary and in throughout the movement
- The close grip allows higher weight and reduces shoulder stress
- Move deliberately to eliminate momentum
- This variation is excellent for upper bicep development
- Maintain a tight core to prevent excessive arching
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 | 10 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps | 10 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps | 7.5 kg | 5 kg |
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