Appears in642 Workouts*

Single-Arm Preacher Curl

Isolate & sculpt your biceps with the Single-Arm Preacher Curl! Build strength with controlled reps and proper form.

The Single-Arm Preacher Curl mainly works the biceps, with help from the forearms. You'll need: dumbbells or preacher curl bench.

Ms. Grey
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@JustGains_XX

Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Preacher Curl Bench
Preacher Curl Bench

Single-Arm Preacher Curl Muscles Worked

Primary

Biceps (biceps brachii)

Secondary

Side Biceps (brachialis); Forearm Flexor (brachioradialis)

How to do the Single-Arm Preacher Curl

  1. Position yourself at a preacher bench, ensuring that your armpit is resting comfortably at the top of the pad.

  2. Grasp a dumbbell with an underhand grip (palms facing up) using one hand.

  3. Plant your feet firmly on the ground for stability.

  4. Place the back of your upper arm on the bench pad with your arm fully extended — your hand holding the dumbbell should be hanging down.

  5. Curl the dumbbell upwards, bending at the elbow, while keeping your upper arm stationary against the bench.

  6. Continue to lift the dumbbell until your bicep is fully contracted and the dumbbell is at shoulder level.

  7. Hold the contraction briefly, then slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position, controlling the weight throughout the descent.

  8. Perform the desired number of repetitions, then switch arms to work the other bicep.

Remember to breathe evenly throughout the exercise, exhaling on the upward curl and inhaling as you lower the weight. It's important to maintain control and to not use momentum to lift the weight. Adjust the dumbbell weight to match your strength level and fitness goals.

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Single-Arm Preacher Curl FAQs

What muscles does the Single-Arm Preacher Curl work?

The Single-Arm Preacher Curl mainly works the biceps, with help from the forearms. The main muscles are the biceps brachii.

What equipment do you need for the Single-Arm Preacher Curl?

Dumbbells or preacher curl bench.

What workout day should the Single-Arm Preacher Curl go on?

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

What are some Single-Arm Preacher Curl variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Barbell Preacher Curl, Barbell Reverse Preacher Curl, Barbell Reverse Spider Curl and Bicep Leg Concentration Curl.

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