Mighty Logo
Mighty
← Back to library
Last updated February 2, 2026
Media unavailable
bicepsforearmstriceps

Hammer Curl - Seated, Alternate (Dumbbell)

Sit on bench. Alternating arms, curl dumbbell with thumb facing up. Control the swing.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Easy
Mechanic
Isolation
Force
Pull
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Low
Hypertrophy
High
Calorie Burn
Low

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

outer bicep / brachialis

Secondary

forearm flexors

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

dumbbellbench

Movement pattern

Alternate

Posture

Seated

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Sit on a bench with your back supported, feet flat on the floor.
    • Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your arms hanging down at your sides, palms facing each other.
  2. Step 2Position Your Arms
    • Keep your elbows close to your torso and ensure your wrists are straight.
    • Your arms should be fully extended, and your palms should be facing each other.
  3. Step 3Curl the Dumbbells
    • Exhale as you curl one dumbbell towards your shoulder by bending your elbow.
    • Keep your upper arm stationary and focus on using your bicep to lift the weight.
  4. Step 4Lower the Dumbbell
    • Inhale as you slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position.
    • Maintain control of the weight and avoid swinging your arm.
  5. Step 5Alternate Arms
    • After lowering the first dumbbell, repeat the curl with the opposite arm.
    • Continue alternating arms for the desired number of repetitions.
  6. Step 6Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, lower the dumbbells to your sides.
    • Carefully stand up from the bench, keeping your back straight.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025