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Biceps exercise · barbell

Barbell Preacher Curl

The barbell preacher curl is a barbell exercise that targets the biceps, with the forearms assisting.

Animated demonstration of the barbell preacher curl
Barbell Preacher Curl — demonstration
Target muscle
Biceps
Also works
Forearms
Equipment
Barbell
Body part
Upper arms

How to do the barbell preacher curl

  1. Sit on a preacher bench with your upper arms resting on the pad and your chest against the support.
  2. Grasp the barbell with an underhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  3. Keeping your upper arms stationary, exhale and curl the barbell up towards your shoulders.
  4. Pause for a moment at the top, squeezing your biceps.
  5. Inhale and slowly lower the barbell back down to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the biceps. The forearms work as secondary muscles. See all biceps exercises or every barbell exercise.

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