Illustration of Bicep Curl (EZ Bar) exercise

Bicep Curl (EZ Bar)

A common isolation exercise that targets the biceps muscles, promoting muscle growth and strength. It involves curling an EZ bar towards the shoulders.

Beginner
Gym

Muscle Targets Visualizer

Muscle Targeting Visualizer

Full Body
biceps Muscles
Full Body
biceps Muscles
biceps Muscles

Primary Muscle

Biceps

Secondary Muscles

Brachialis
Brachioradialis
Forearms

Strength Level Tracker

Weight Unit
Gender
Beg
Nov
Int
Adv
Eli
WC
44
66
88
110
132
154
Enter body weight and lift weight to estimate strength level

Track Your Progress Like a Pro

Bicep Curl (EZ Bar)

Average of all records in a cycle

74%
216.7 lbs
79%
219 lbs
Est. 1RM (lbs)Current: 219Average: 216.7

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grip and Setup

Grip the EZ bar with an underhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, maintaining a neutral spine.

  • Ensure a comfortable and secure grip.
  • Keep your elbows close to your sides.

2. Curl Upward

Keeping your elbows stationary, curl the EZ bar upwards towards your shoulders, focusing on contracting your biceps.

  • Use a controlled, smooth motion.
  • Avoid swinging or jerking the weight.

3. Peak Contraction

Pause briefly at the top of the movement to fully contract your biceps.

  • Squeeze your biceps hard at the top.
  • Maintain controlled breathing.

4. Lower Slowly

Slowly lower the weight back to the starting position, resisting gravity throughout the movement.

  • Control the descent; avoid letting the weight drop.
  • Maintain tension in the biceps.

5. Repeat

Repeat the curl for your desired number of repetitions.

  • Maintain consistent form throughout the entire set.
  • Adjust weight as needed.

Form Tips

Elbow Position

Keep your elbows tucked in close to your sides throughout the movement to prevent swinging and maximize bicep activation.

Controlled Movement

Avoid using momentum; control the weight throughout the entire range of motion.

Full Range of Motion

Fully extend your arms at the bottom and fully contract your biceps at the top for optimal muscle engagement.

Common Mistakes

Using excessive weight

Reduce the weight to allow for controlled movements and proper form.

Swinging the weight

Focus on using your biceps to lift the weight, controlling the movement.

Arching the back

Maintain a neutral spine throughout the exercise.

Incomplete range of motion

Fully extend your arms at the bottom and fully contract your biceps at the top.

Using an incorrect grip

Experiment with different grips to find the most comfortable and effective one for you.

Alternative Exercises

  • Hammer Curl
  • Concentration Curl
  • Incline Bicep Curl
  • Decline Bicep Curl
  • Alternating Bicep Curl

Complementary Exercises

  • Overhead Press
  • Bent-Over Row
  • Triceps Pushdowns
  • Skullcrushers