Single-Arm Preacher Curl

Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
dumbbell
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A single-arm bicep curl performed on a preacher bench, providing support and isolation for the biceps. The preacher position limits momentum and increases time under tension for each arm independently.

Instructions

  1. Sit on a preacher curl bench with your chest against the pad and feet firmly on the floor.
  2. Adjust the bench so the pad supports your upper arms from elbow to just above the wrist.
  3. Hold a dumbbell in one hand with your arm extended over the preacher pad.
  4. Your opposite arm can rest at your side or place your hand beneath the curling arm’s elbow for light support.
  5. Curl the dumbbell upward in a controlled motion, bending only at the elbow.
  6. Squeeze your biceps at the top of the movement, feeling the full contraction.
  7. Lower the dumbbell back to the starting position with control, avoiding complete lockout at the bottom.
  8. Complete all reps on one arm, then switch to the other side.

Tips

  • Keep your upper arm stationary against the pad throughout the movement.
  • Avoid swinging the weight; use strict form to maximize bicep activation.
  • The preacher position naturally limits cheating, making it excellent for isolation.
  • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase to increase time under tension.
  • Start with a weight that allows 8-12 controlled repetitions per arm.
  • Consider pausing briefly at the top of each rep for increased muscle engagement.

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 6 kg 4 kg
Build muscle 3 13 reps 5 kg 3 kg
Build endurance 3 16 reps 4 kg 2 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength

Biceps Clutch (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about biceps clutch (trx / suspension trainer)
beginner strength

Biceps Curl Single Arm (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about biceps curl single arm (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
Curls Lying Against An Incline (Barbell)

Curls Lying Against An Incline (Barbell)

Learn more about curls lying against an incline (barbell)
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
Lying Close-Grip Bar Curl On High Pulley

Lying Close-Grip Bar Curl On High Pulley

Learn more about lying close-grip bar curl on high pulley
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Seated Close-Grip Concentration Barbell Curl

Seated Close-Grip Concentration Barbell Curl

Learn more about seated close-grip concentration barbell curl
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
Standing One-Arm Dumbbell Curl Over Incline Bench

Standing One-Arm Dumbbell Curl Over Incline Bench

Learn more about standing one-arm dumbbell curl over incline bench
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength