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Exercise library

Barbell Curl

Biceps · Horizontal pull

Generic horizontal pull demo. Follow the steps below for this exact exercise.

Horizontal pullIsolation

A two-handed curl with a straight or EZ bar that lets you load the biceps heavier than dumbbells.

Difficulty
Easy
Tracking
Measured in reps

Muscles worked

Biceps

Equipment

Barbell

How to do it

  1. Stand with your feet hip width and hold a barbell with an underhand grip at shoulder width.
  2. Keep your elbows tucked at your sides and your ribs down.
  3. Curl the bar up to chest height by bending at the elbows only.
  4. Lower under control until your arms are completely straight.

Coaching cues

  • If your body starts swinging, drop the weight and keep your back still.
  • Use an EZ bar if a straight bar bothers your wrists.