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Last updated March 2, 2026
BicepsForearmsTriceps
Preacher Curl (Barbell)
Use a straight barbell on the preacher bench. Curl up. Be careful with your wrists; the straight bar can be uncomfortable for some.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- High
- Calorie Burn
- Low-Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Bicep (short Head)
Secondary
Forearm Flexors
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
BarbellBench
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Seated
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Adjust the preacher curl bench to a comfortable height, ensuring your upper arms rest on the pad.
- Sit on the bench with your feet flat on the ground and your back against the support.
- Step 2Grab the Bar
- Using an underhand grip, grasp the barbell with your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Ensure that your wrists are straight and your grip is firm.
- Step 3Position Your Body
- Rest your upper arms on the preacher pad, keeping your elbows close to your body.
- Engage your core and maintain a straight posture throughout the exercise.
- Step 4Lift the Bar
- Curl the barbell upwards by flexing your elbows, bringing the bar towards your shoulders.
- Focus on squeezing your biceps at the top of the movement.
- Step 5Lower the Bar
- Slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position, fully extending your arms.
- Control the movement to avoid swinging or using momentum.
- Step 6Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form throughout each rep.
- Avoid locking out your elbows at the bottom of the movement.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully place the barbell back on the rack.
- Stand up from the bench while keeping your back straight and feet firmly on the ground.
Alternatives & variations
Explore similar movements targeting the same muscles.
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