Reverse-grip barbell curl

The reverse-grip barbell curl is a variation on the biceps curl where the palms face downward. The switch from an underhand to an overhand grip brings the forearm and brachialis muscles more into the exercise. If it is uncomfortable to the wrists, try performing it on the angles of an EZ-curl bar.

Benefits

  1. Builds forearms more than underhand curl variations
  2. Builds biceps thickness and brachialis size
  3. Great high-rep finishing move for arms day
8.2
Average

Reverse-grip barbell curl Images

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Reverse-grip barbell curl Instructions

Reverse-grip barbell curl muscle diagram
  1. Stand up with your torso upright while holding a barbell at shoulder width with the elbows close to the torso. The palm of your hands should be facing down (pronated grip). This will be your starting position.
  2. While holding the upper arms stationary, curl the weights while contracting the biceps as you breathe out. Only the forearms should move. Continue the movement until your biceps are fully contracted and the bar is at shoulder level. Hold the contracted position for a second as you squeeze the muscle.
  3. Slowly begin to bring the bar back to starting position as your breathe in.
  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Variations: You can also perform this movement using an E-Z attachment hooked to a low pulley. This variation seems to really provide a good contraction at the top of the movement. You can also use an E-Z bar as well.

Alternative Exercises for Reverse-grip barbell curl

Reverse Cable Curl thumbnail image Reverse Cable Curl thumbnail image

Reverse Cable Curl

Muscle Targeted: Biceps
Equipment Type: Cable
8.7
Average
Reverse Plate Curls thumbnail image Reverse Plate Curls thumbnail image

Reverse Plate Curls

Muscle Targeted: Biceps
Equipment Type: Other
7.2
Average