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Forearms exercise · barbell

Barbell Wrist Curl

The barbell wrist curl is a barbell exercise that targets the forearms, with the biceps and brachialis assisting.

Animated demonstration of the barbell wrist curl
Barbell Wrist Curl — demonstration
Target muscle
Forearms
Also works
Biceps, brachialis
Equipment
Barbell
Body part
Lower arms

How to do the barbell wrist curl

  1. Sit on a bench with your feet flat on the ground and your forearms resting on your thighs, holding a barbell with an underhand grip.
  2. Allow the barbell to roll down to your fingertips, keeping your wrists straight.
  3. Slowly curl the barbell up towards your forearms by flexing your wrists.
  4. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower the barbell back down to the starting position.
  5. 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 forearms. The biceps and brachialis work as secondary muscles. See all forearm exercises or every barbell exercise.

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