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Exercise Guide
How to do dumbbell concentration curl
Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.
The dumbbell concentration curl is a legendary isolation exercise famous for its ability to build the bicep peak. By bracing your elbow against your inner thigh, you isolate the muscle and prevent any swinging or assistance from other body parts. This focused approach allows for an intense contraction at the top of the movement, making it a staple for anyone looking to refine their arm aesthetics.
Stats
TIER
1
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Bench, Dumbbell
TARGET MUSCLES
Biceps
Instructions for Proper Form
Setup:
- Seated position: Sit on the edge of a bench with your legs comfortably spaced apart.
- Arm position: Lean forward slightly and rest the back of your upper arm against the inside of your thigh, allowing your arm to hang down.
- Dumbbell grip: Grab a dumbbell with an underhand grip (palm facing up), and let it hang between your legs.
The Lift:
- Initiate the curl: Keep your upper arm fixed against your thigh. Curl the weight upwards towards your shoulder, focusing on using only your bicep.
- Squeeze at the top: At the top of the movement, contract your biceps forcefully and hold for a brief moment.
- Controlled descent: Slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position in a controlled manner. Don't let the weight drop quickly.
- Repeat: Perform the desired number of repetitions, then switch arms.
Tips:
- Focus on the bicep: Concentrate on the feeling of your bicep contracting throughout the movement for maximum activation.
- Full range of motion: Fully extend your arm at the bottom of each rep for maximum bicep stretch.
- Supination: Throughout the curl, slightly twist your wrist and pinky finger outward to emphasize the peak of the bicep.
Common mistakes: Moving the elbow away from the inner thigh and swinging the weight using the shoulder.
Alternatives
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ez-barbell close grip preacher curl
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Ez Barbell
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Bench
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Dumbbell
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Cable
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Preacher Curl
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None
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Bench
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Preacher Curl
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Resistance Band
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