Appears in642 Workouts*

Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl

Sculpt powerful biceps! This classic isolates each arm for balanced strength and a defined look. Get curling!

The Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl mainly works the biceps, with help from the chest and triceps. You'll need: dumbbells.

Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl demo video 2
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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells

Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl Muscles Worked

Primary

Biceps (biceps brachii); Side Biceps (brachialis)

Secondary

Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head); Triceps (triceps brachii)

How to do the Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl

Dumbbell Alternate Biceps Curl Instructions

Starting Position:

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, ensuring your balance is stable.

  2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your arms at your sides. Your palms should be facing forward (this is called a supinated grip).

  3. Keep your shoulders relaxed and down, and engage your core by tightening your abs.

Movement:

  1. Begin the exercise by curling one dumbbell up toward your shoulder. Ensure to bend only at your elbow; your upper arm should remain stationary and close to your torso.

  2. As you curl the dumbbell, exhale steadily and focus on using your bicep muscles.

  3. Once the dumbbell reaches shoulder height, pause briefly for a moment to maximize tension in the muscle.

  4. Lower the dumbbell back to the starting position while inhaling, fully extending your arm.

  5. Repeat the curl with the opposite arm while keeping your body steady.

  6. Continue alternating arms for the desired number of repetitions or sets.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Start with lighter weights to master the form before increasing the weight.

  • Avoid swinging the weights; the movement should be controlled and smooth.

  • Keep your elbows close to your body throughout the movement to effectively target the biceps.

Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl FAQs

What muscles does the Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl work?

The Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl mainly works the biceps, with help from the chest and triceps. The main muscles are the biceps brachii and brachialis.

What equipment do you need for the Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl?

Dumbbells.

What workout day should the Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl go on?

It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Alternating Dumbbell Bicep Curl variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Alternating Barbell Bicep Curl, Alternating Bottle-Weight Bicep Curl, Alternating Bottle-Weight Hammer Curl and Dumbbell Zottman Curl.

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