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Last updated March 2, 2026
BicepsForearmsTriceps
Preacher Curl (Cable)
Use a cable pulley in front of a preacher bench. The cable keeps tension on the bicep even at the top of the rep.
Quick facts
- Level
- Beginner
- 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
Bicep (short Head)
Secondary
Forearm Flexors
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
CableBench
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 that your upper arms rest securely on the pad.
- Attach a cable to the low pulley and select an appropriate weight.
- Step 2Position Your Arms
- Sit on the preacher curl bench and grasp the cable handle with an underhand grip.
- Position your upper arms against the pad, ensuring that your elbows are slightly bent and not locked.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Sit up straight with your feet flat on the ground and your back pressed against the bench.
- Engage your core muscles to maintain stability throughout the exercise.
- Step 4Curl the Handle
- Exhale and curl the cable handle towards your shoulders by bending your elbows.
- Keep your upper arms stationary against the pad and focus on contracting your biceps.
- Step 5Lower the Handle
- Inhale and slowly lower the cable handle back to the starting position, fully extending your arms.
- Maintain control of the movement to avoid using momentum.
- Step 6Repeat
- Repeat the curl and lower for the desired number of repetitions, ensuring proper form throughout.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully place the cable handle back on the attachment.
- Stand up from the bench and ensure you are balanced before walking away.
Alternatives & variations
Explore similar movements targeting the same muscles.
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