Atlas
Reverse Barbell Curl: starting position Reverse Barbell Curl: end position

Elbow Flexion · Biceps

Reverse Barbell Curl

A elbow flexion exercise that works the biceps. Beginner level, using barbell & rack.

BeginnerBarbell & rackGym

Muscles worked

PrimaryBiceps
SecondaryForearms

Brachioradialis, brachialis and forearm extensors.

Setup and loading

Overhand grip at shoulder width.

How to do the reverse barbell curl step by step

  1. Stand holding the bar with your palms facing down.
  2. Elbows tucked.
  3. Curl the bar up by bending your elbows and lower slowly.

Form cues

  • Firm wrists
  • Upper arms still

Common mistakes

  • Bending your wrists
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3 x 10-15 · rest 60 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Olympic barbell and platesTo keep progressing on the big lifts with heavy loads.

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Variations and similar exercises

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