Reverse curls barbell benefits. Read our barbell reverse curl guide.
Reverse curls barbell benefits In this article, we’ll dive into the details of how to do reverse curls with a barbell, including proper form, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for maximizing results. Oct 9, 2021 · Reverse curls differ from traditional curls in that they target the brachioradialis muscle, located on the thumb side of the forearm. By gripping the barbell or dumbbells with a pronated (overhand) grip, the brachioradialis is engaged to a greater extent, making reverse curls an excellent exercise for forearm development. Oct 12, 2022 · The Reverse Wrist Curl targets the wrist extensors on the top side of the forearm, balancing out the muscles worked by traditional wrist curls. 3. Nov 9, 2023 · To maximize your gains, focus on the benefits of the barbell reverse curl. Jul 27, 2023 · You should consequently add reverse curls to that list as well because, when done properly, they contribute to bicep development in much the same way as a regular curl but with the added benefits of better grip strength, forearm development, brachialis/brachioradialis development, and supporting long-term wrist health. 2. Mar 20, 2024 · While you can do a reverse curl with a barbell, EZ bar or dumbbells, using barbells for hammer curls would be, er, awkward, to say the least. Oct 24, 2025 · Learn how the Reverse Barbell Curl builds forearm strength, bigger arms, and a solid grip. May 20, 2024 · The reverse curl features a starting position and movement pattern nearly identical to the standard barbell curl, with the distinction being the difference in the grip. Unlike traditional bicep curls, the barbell reverse curl places more emphasis on the Oct 24, 2024 · Unlike traditional curls, in which your biceps shoulder the brunt of the work, reverse curls attack your brachioradialis, the muscle on the front of your forearm. The reverse barbell curl is often overlooked in favor of other bicep exercises, but it offers several benefits. Hold a barbell or dumbbells with an overhand grip, shoulder-width apart. . Additionally, you may choose to perform this biceps exercise standing or seated. By reversing the grip on the barbell, you shift the emphasis from the biceps to the brachioradialis, a muscle located on the outside of the forearm that aids in supination (turning the palm up). However, it is worth noting that reverse curls require you to hold your dumbbell or barbell with your palms facing downwards. Aug 3, 2024 · The reverse curl barbell is an effective exercise for targeting the biceps and forearms. Jun 29, 2025 · Reverse barbell curls, a staple in many weightlifting routines, target the muscles on the back of your forearm, primarily the brachioradialis. Reverse curls are an often overlooked exercise but one that should be included in your daily workouts. Learn how to do the perfect reverse curl. By incorporating reverse grip curls into a workout routine, individuals can Feb 14, 2025 · Bicep Curl vs. Discover benefits, form tips, and variations — click to read now! Dec 24, 2021 · As such, the curl and press makes a great addition to your bicep barbell workouts because you’re training even more functions of the muscle than on straight barbell curls. Would usually do the BC with dumbbells and RC with a bar. Discover the secrets to mastering this essential move below, and keep reading for a step-by-step guide to doing it right. Jun 7, 2024 · Learn to do reverse biceps curls and variations for your fitness level. Read our barbell reverse curl guide. Follow our step-by-step instructions and tips. Reverse grip bicep curls target slightly different arm muscles by adjusting your grip on the barbell or dumbbells. While traditional curls primarily isolate the biceps brachii, reverse curls shift the focus to the often-neglected brachioradialis and brachialis, creating a more balanced arm development. Keep reading to learn how. Jul 30, 2024 · Reverse barbell curls, a variation of the classic biceps exercise, target the muscles of the forearm in a unique and effective way. 2 days ago · In conclusion, reverse barbell curls are a powerful exercise for targeting the brachialis, offering unique benefits compared to traditional curls. Barbell Curls use a supinated grip (underhand), while a Reverse Barbell Curl uses a pronated grip (overhand). This exercise can increase your ability to lift heavier weights during standard biceps curl. This tutorial shows you how to perform the barbell curl and press and then discusses the benefits of this underrated compound exercise. Jun 29, 2025 · To perform the reverse barbell curl, you’ll need a barbell and a bench or platform to sit on. Dec 15, 2022 · Barbell Curls and Reverse Barbell Curls are two popular exercises that target the biceps. By reversing the traditional curl motion, this variation places emphasis on the brachioradialis, which helps to strengthen and define the outer portion of the upper arm. Nov 26, 2024 · This one exercise is all you need to beef up your arms. The Right Way to Reverse Curl Perfecting the reverse curl is a surefire way to level up Want to build strong, defined forearms in 2025? We discuss how to do the barbell reverse curl, target muscles, expert tips, and more. Jun 30, 2025 · In the following sections, we’ll break down the anatomy of the reverse barbell curl, discuss the benefits of incorporating this exercise into your routine, and provide tips for proper form and execution. Mar 15, 2024 · Regular Curls: Mechanics and Benefits Regular curls are performed with an overhand grip, palms facing up. This complete guide includes several reverse curl variations. Jul 21, 2023 · The reverse barbell curl is much the same as a regular barbell curl, only with the bar gripped in a different manner and muscles like the brachialis and forearm flexors utilized as primary mover muscles. Practice this variation if you’ve already mastered the barbell curl. Nov 11, 2022 · Learn how to do reverse grip curls with a barbell to work your biceps. 20 or until-fail reverse bicep curls (20 pound barbell) Farmers carry dumbells so heavy that I can't hold on for over 30 seconds. Reverse curls aren’t just another arm exercise; they're a game-changer for enhancing grip strength and reducing elbow stress. Dec 10, 2022 · Reverse curl is a popular exercise to build muscles. This exercise involves gripping a dumbbell or barbell with a pronated (overhand) grip and curling it toward the shoulders, which shifts the focus from the biceps to the forearm Oct 26, 2024 · Build impressive forearms with the Barbell Reverse Wrist Curl! Learn the proper form, avoid common mistakes, and elevate your lower arm workouts for real results. By doing so, the wrist extensors are engaged, which are the muscles that help extend the wrist joint. 2 days ago · Reverse grip curls primarily target the brachioradialis, a muscle located in the forearm, while also engaging the brachialis and biceps brachii. Brachioradialis gets hit nicely too. By performing this exercise regularly, you can improve your grip and wrist strength, which can help 2 days ago · Reverse curls and traditional bicep curls are both effective exercises, but they target muscles differently and offer distinct benefits. You may do reverse curls using free weights, resistance bands, or even a cable machine. Meanwhile, your brachialis (hidden beneath the biceps) fires intensely, pushing your biceps upward for that coveted peak. You Dec 18, 2024 · Reverse grip bicep curls target slightly different arm muscles by adjusting your grip on the barbell or dumbbells. Barbell reverse curl is one of the most effective arm exercises targeting your wrists and biceps. EZ-curl bar reverse curl: This variation relies on you having access to an EZ-curl bar, a type of curl bar with an angled handle designed to reduce pressure on your wrists. Learn how to do this exercise, the muscles worked, and the main benefits. Also learn about the benefits of the exercise and the muscles it works. (usually for me that's 60 lbs in each hand) 2 days ago · Reverse bicep curls are a variation of the traditional bicep curl that primarily target the brachioradialis, a muscle located in the forearm, while also engaging the brachialis and the biceps brachii to a lesser extent. By incorporating reverse curls into your workout routine, you can improve your grip strength, enhance your athletic performance, and achieve more aesthetically pleasing forearms. Don’t go in thinking that you can lift a similar weight to what you can with an underhand grip, the short answer is: you can’t. Reverse Curl: Which builds stronger arms? Discover key differences, benefits, and the best choice for you! Nov 13, 2025 · The reverse barbell curl’s pronated grip forces your brachioradialis—the powerhouse running along your outer forearm—to shoulder 70% of the work. Mechanics: 1. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform reverse curls barbell: May 5, 2021 · 2. Aug 11, 2024 · Transform your Arms with the Barbell Reverse Curl! This powerful exercise targets your Biceps, Brachialis, Brachioradialis, and Forearm Muscles. Read the article to understand how to correctly perform reverse curls and achieve the results you're looking for. Learn the techniques! Feb 1, 2023 · Biceps Curl Before going in “reverse,” make sure you can handle the standard movement. Nov 15, 2021 · A reverse barbell curl is a great exercise for building huge and strong biceps and forearms. Jan 12, 2025 · In this guide, we will look at the benefits of the reverse barbell curl, provide a step-by-step guide on how to perform it correctly, and talk about the needed equipment. By gripping the barbell with an overhand grip and curling it towards your shoulders, you engage the brachialis, brachioradialis, and the biceps brachii muscles. Jun 20, 2025 · The brachioradialis muscle on top of the forearm is also engaged and assists with elbow flexion and arm strength. Here's how to do the reverse biceps curl with picture-perfect form. What many do not know is that reverse curls may be the key to gains. Nov 26, 2022 · The Reverse Cable Curl is an isolation exercise that strengthens the biceps and forearms (especially the brachioradialis) by using a pronated (overhand) grip. Any type of barbell would stick out uncomfortably behind or in front of your body if you tried to use it to hammer curl. Strengthening these muscles helps improve grip endurance, forearm definition, and wrist Jun 29, 2025 · Understanding the Reverse Barbell Curls: Benefits and Purpose The reverse barbell curls are a variation of the traditional barbell curls that target the biceps from a different angle. For one, it can help improve overall bicep development by targeting the brachialis muscle, which is responsible for elbow flexion. Here's a detailed guide on how to do a reverse barbell curl with proper form! Jun 29, 2025 · The reverse barbell curl works by reversing the direction of the curl, so that the weight is lifted up and back towards the shoulders, rather than straight up towards the shoulders. May 20, 2025 · EZ Bar reverse curl uses an overhead grip, which can be your secret weapon in your quest to build bigger and stronger upper and lower arms. Like the reverse biceps curl, the supinated curl can be performed with dumbbells, a barbell, or, if your wrist mobility restricts a comfortable supinated hand position, an EZ-curl bar. Learn how to do reverse curls properly to hit the brachoradialis and boost your bicep thickness. This variation of the traditional curl involves gripping the barbell or dumbbell with palms facing downward, which shifts the emphasis from the biceps to the forearm muscles. For years, early on, my pull day consisted of 4x8-12 biceps curls followed by 4x8-12 reverse curls. Jun 30, 2025 · By incorporating reverse curls into your routine, you can not only improve the aesthetics of your arms, but also enhance your overall strength and athleticism. Nov 20, 2024 · The reverse curl is a useful exercise to train your forearm muscles. Here's how to do the exercise, who should add them to workouts, and more. This change in direction puts the muscles of the arm in a different position, which can help to target the muscles in a way that the traditional curl does not. Both exercises involve curling with a barbell, but the two exercises differ in the grip used while curling. Includes technique, training tips, benefits, muscles worked, alternatives, variations and mistakes. Barbell reverse curl: This type of reverse curl employs a straight barbell. By focusing on form, rep ranges, and advanced techniques, individuals can maximize activation and achieve stronger, more defined arms. While often overshadowed by their forward-curl counterparts, these curls offer unique benefits and contribute significantly to overall upper body strength and functional movement. May 24, 2025 · Which bicep curl builds stronger arms? Compare reverse curl vs. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or just starting out, this guide is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of what muscles do reverse barbell curls work, and how to get the Apr 17, 2024 · The reverse curl is a useful exercise to train your forearm muscles. Jul 21, 2023 · Equipment Needed to Reverse Curl Reverse curls may be performed with any number of different free weight implements, but are most effective when performed with a pair of dumbbells or with an EZ-barbell, as the usage of a straight barbell may place strain on parts of the wrists and forearms. This exercise involves holding a barbell with an overhand grip and curling the weight upward while keeping the elbows stationary. Focus on engaging the long head of the biceps by Aug 26, 2025 · Build better arms with the Reverse Curl. It is excellent for building the bicep and brachialis muscles (upper arms) and stimulating the brachioradialis muscle (lower arm). Train both with barbell reverse curls! Jun 9, 2017 · How To Perform A Reverse Curl (Image credit: Glen Burrows) When performing a reverse curl you can either use dumbbells, or an EZ curl bar or a straight barbell like an Olympic bar. Learn how to do reverse curls, along with the benefits, common mistakes, and four variations we recommend for building your biceps muscles. This variation places less emphasis on the biceps peak and more on Read our barbell reverse preacher curl guide. (1 , 2 , 3 ) In other words, performing reverse curls could improve your grip strength, allowing you to hold onto more weight while training and handle everyday tasks more easily. com Oct 12, 2022 · Barbell Reverse Curls (How To, Muscles Worked, Benefits) By Coach Horton October 12, 2022 Updated On November 7, 2025 The Reverse Curl is a forearm and biceps exercise that strengthens the upper arms while emphasizing the brachioradialis, the large muscle on the top of the forearm. Aug 9, 2024 · In a reverse curl, muscles are similar to those in a regular curl, but the choice between dumbbells or a barbell depends on several factors. Definitely felt it in my upper arms, most likely due to a brachialis focus. Reverse Curl Benefits So, why should you incorporate the reverse biceps curl into your workout routine? Is there any advantage compared to standard barbell curls? It’s a fantastic movement to incorporate into arm workouts for several reasons, like more grip strength, more muscle Sep 23, 2023 · The reverse barbell curl, a variation of the traditional barbell curl, is one of the most effective strength gaining exercises targeting your wrists and biceps. 0:00 Intro 0:07 Opposite Pressures 2:16 Lower Arm Aesthetics 3:12 Difficulty Implications 4:11 Conclusion Instagram: / outalpha Sep 2, 2022 · The reverse barbell curl is a great biceps exercise to see increased strength and size while also working on forearm development. Learn how to the reverse barbell curl for massive forearms and biceps. Aug 17, 2023 · The barbell reverse wrist curl is a popular exercise that targets the muscles in the forearms and wrists. It activates and develops prominent muscles, including the brachialis of your upper arm and the brachioradialis of your forearm. Keep your elbows close to your body and curl the weight up towards your shoulders. This exercise helps to develop grip strength and stability of the wrist joint, as well as increasing forearm size and strength. They offer a surprising array of benefits, while building muscle in a natural way. hammer curl benefits, form, and results in our detailed guide! Benefits of Barbell Reverse Curl The barbell reverse curl is an excellent exercise for strengthening the wrist extensors, which are responsible for extending the wrist. Targeting the Jun 23, 2020 · While there are lots of biceps & forearms exercises to choose from, very few work your upper and lower arms together. Reverse Barbell Curl Benefits It not just helps in developing an […] Nov 19, 2022 · Build your biceps, improve grip strength, and show your forearms some love with barbell reverse curls. The reverse curl is a variation of the standard biceps curl except, instead of gripping the weight with the palms up (underhand grip), your palms are facing down (overhead grip). Jun 22, 2024 · Reverse curls are a highly effective exercise for building stronger, more defined forearms. This grip position primarily targets the long head of the biceps. Sep 4, 2024 · Reverse bicep curls can be your secret weapon in your quest to build bigger arms. See full list on hevyapp. This exercise specifically targets the muscles in your forearms and biceps. This exercise targets the muscles on the underside of your forearms, which are responsible for wrist flexion and supination.