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💪 Bicep Curl

The Bicep Curl is a beginner upper body exercise that targets the biceps brachii, brachialis, and forearms. Stand tall, arms at sides, curl forearms up toward your shoulders keeping elbows pinned to your ribs. It's used to build strength and support general conditioning. Below is how to perform the Bicep Curl with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

Upper BodyBeginnerNone3 × 12

Benefits of the Bicep Curl

  • Strengthens and activates the biceps brachii, brachialis, and forearms
  • Improves strength
  • Great for general conditioning and everyday strength
  • Can be done at home with no equipment
  • Performed standing, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Bicep Curl

  1. Stand tall, arms at sides, palms facing forward
  2. Keep elbows pinned to your ribs
  3. Curl forearms up toward your shoulders
  4. Squeeze at the top; lower under control

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Elbows stay anchored — no forward drift
  • No torso swing or hip thrust
  • Full range of motion — bottom and top
  • Controlled tempo on the eccentric (lowering) phase

Muscles worked

Biceps Brachii, Brachialis, Forearms

When to be cautious

  • Acute elbow pain

Who should do the Bicep Curl?

The Bicep Curl is well suited to beginner exercisers looking to strengthen the upper body and improve strength as part of general conditioning.

Bicep Curl — FAQ

What muscles does the Bicep Curl work?
The Bicep Curl primarily targets the biceps brachii, brachialis, and forearms.
How many sets and reps of the Bicep Curl should I do?
A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Do I need equipment for the Bicep Curl?
No — the Bicep Curl needs no equipment and can be done at home.
When should I avoid the Bicep Curl?
Take care or skip it if you have: acute elbow pain. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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