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Biceps exercise · cable

Cable Seated Overhead Curl

The cable seated overhead curl is a cable exercise that targets the biceps, with the forearms and shoulders assisting.

Animated demonstration of the cable seated overhead curl
Cable Seated Overhead Curl — demonstration
Target muscle
Biceps
Also works
Forearms, shoulders
Equipment
Cable
Body part
Upper arms

How to do the cable seated overhead curl

  1. Sit on a bench facing the cable machine with your feet flat on the ground.
  2. Grasp the cable attachment with an underhand grip, palms facing up, and your hands shoulder-width apart.
  3. Keep your upper arms stationary and your elbows close to your sides.
  4. Exhale and curl the cable attachment towards your shoulders, contracting your biceps.
  5. Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, squeezing your biceps.
  6. Inhale and slowly lower the cable attachment back to the starting position, fully extending your arms.
  7. 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 and shoulders work as secondary muscles. See all biceps exercises or every cable exercise.

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