Arms
The main muscle group listed for this exercise.
Exercise guide
Barbell Curl
Barbell Curl is a beginner-friendly arm exercise performed with a barbell.
Barbell
The equipment listed for this variation.
Beginner
The recorded setup and movement complexity.
Arms
No secondary muscle group is listed for this variation.
Strength
Movement pattern: elbow flexion. This is an isolation exercise.
Beginner
This level reflects the setup and movement complexity recorded for this exercise.
Instructions
How to do Barbell Curl
- Stand up with your torso upright while holding a barbell at a shoulder-width grip. The palm of your hands should be facing forward and the elbows should be close to the torso. This will be your starting position.
- While holding the upper arms stationary, curl the weights forward while contracting the biceps as you breathe out. Tip: Only the forearms should move.
- Continue the movement until your biceps are fully contracted and the bar is at shoulder level. Hold the contracted position for a second and squeeze the biceps hard.
- Slowly begin to bring the bar back to starting position as your breathe in.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Related workouts
Workout templates that use this exercise.
If you want to see this movement inside a more complete training session, start here.
Back and Biceps Workout
A straightforward back and biceps workout with vertical pulls, rows, and direct arm work.
View workoutPull Day Workout
A pull day built around back thickness, back width, and direct arm work.
View workout3-Day Full Body Split
A three-day split that spreads total weekly work across three full-body sessions.
View workoutRelated exercises
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Barbell Curls Lying Against An Incline is a beginner-friendly arm exercise performed with a barbell.
View exerciseClose-Grip EZ Bar Curl
Close-Grip EZ Bar Curl is a beginner-friendly arm exercise performed with a barbell.
View exerciseClose-Grip Standing Barbell Curl
Close-Grip Standing Barbell Curl is a beginner-friendly arm exercise performed with a barbell.
View exerciseFinger Curls
Finger Curls is a beginner-friendly arm exercise performed with a barbell.
View exerciseRelated tools
Related calculators for this exercise.
Use these calculators when you want to connect the exercise itself to calories, protein, strength targets, or training volume.
FAQ
Common questions about Barbell Curl.
What muscles does Barbell Curl work?
Barbell Curl primarily trains the arms.
Is Barbell Curl beginner-friendly?
Yes. It is listed as beginner-friendly.
What equipment do I need for Barbell Curl?
This variation uses a barbell.
Track this exercise for free in Logbook.
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