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Exercise Guide

How to do dumbbell reverse grip biceps curl

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

This variation of the bicep curl uses a reverse grip where the palms face downward. This targets the brachialis and the brachioradialis in the forearm, along with the biceps. It is highly effective for building thicker arms and improving grip strength. This exercise helps balance the development of the upper arm and provides a unique stimulus compared to traditional curls.

Stats

TIER
3
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Dumbbell
TARGET MUSCLES
Biceps

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent.
  2. Dumbbell Grip: Grab a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip (palms facing down). Let your arms hang straight down by your sides, keeping your elbows slightly bent.
  3. Posture: Engage your core, keep your back straight and chest lifted.

The Lift:

  1. Initiate the Curl: Keeping your upper arms still and elbows tucked close to your sides, curl both dumbbells upwards towards your shoulders.
  2. Squeeze at the Top: At the top of the movement, contract your biceps and forearms strongly, holding for a brief pause.
  3. Controlled Lowering: Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position, resisting the urge to drop or relax at the bottom.

Tips:

  • Focus on the Forearms: This variation places greater emphasis on your forearms and the brachialis muscle (located under the biceps).
  • Elbows in: Keep your elbows tucked in by your sides to isolate the biceps.
  • Slow and Controlled: Avoid using momentum. Focus on the contraction of your biceps and forearms.
  • Full Range of Motion: Extend your arms fully at the bottom, but avoid hyperextending your elbows.
  • Variation: You can also perform this exercise with a single dumbbell, alternating arms.

Common mistakes: Swinging the body to lift the weight and not maintaining a tight grip.

Alternatives

Bench

dumbbell seated curl

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Dumbbell

dumbbell standing curl

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Cable

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Preacher Curl Machine

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Preacher Curl

ez-barbell close grip preacher curl

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Bench

dumbbell concentration curl

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Cable

cable one arm curl

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Crossover Cable

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Dumbbell

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Bench

dumbbell incline biceps curl

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Cable

cable biceps curl (sz bar)

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Ez Barbell

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Cable

cable hammer curl(rope)

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Barbell

barbell wide grip curl

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Bench

ez-barbell seated curl

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Barbell

barbell reverse curl

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Barbell

barbell preacher curl

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Dumbbell

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Bench

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Cable

cable reverse curl

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Preacher Curl

dumbbell zottman preacher curl

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Dumbbell

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None

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Dumbbell

dumbbell alternate biceps curl

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Resistance Band

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Barbell

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Bench

dumbbell incline hammer curl

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Preacher Curl

dumbbell preacher curl

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Dumbbell

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Resistance Band

band standing hammer curl

Biceps