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Biceps exercise · dumbbell

Dumbbell Seated Curl

The dumbbell seated curl is a dumbbell exercise that targets the biceps, with the forearms assisting.

Animated demonstration of the dumbbell seated curl
Dumbbell Seated Curl — demonstration
Target muscle
Biceps
Also works
Forearms
Equipment
Dumbbell
Body part
Upper arms

How to do the dumbbell seated curl

  1. Sit on a bench with your feet flat on the ground and a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing forward.
  2. Keep your back straight and your elbows close to your torso.
  3. Exhale and curl the dumbbells up towards your shoulders, contracting your biceps.
  4. Pause for a moment at the top, then inhale and slowly lower the dumbbells 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 biceps. The forearms work as secondary muscles. See all biceps exercises or every dumbbell exercise.

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