Biceps exercise · smith machine
Smith Machine Bicep Curl
The smith machine bicep curl is a smith machine exercise that targets the biceps, with the forearms assisting.
- Target muscle
- Biceps
- Also works
- Forearms
- Equipment
- Smith machine
- Body part
- Upper arms
How to do the smith machine bicep curl
- Adjust the height of the smith machine bar to be at waist level.
- Stand facing the smith machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Grasp the bar with an underhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Keep your elbows close to your sides and your upper arms stationary.
- Exhale and curl the bar up towards your shoulders, contracting your biceps.
- Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, squeezing your biceps.
- Inhale and slowly lower the bar back down to the starting position.
- 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 smith machine exercise.
