Back to exercises
StrengthbeginnerBarbell

Preacher Curl

Primary
Biceps
Equipment
Barbell
Level
beginner

Preacher Curl demonstration

Preacher Curl, starting position
Preacher Curl, starting position
Preacher Curl, finishing position
Preacher Curl, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1To perform this movement you will need a preacher bench and an E-Z bar. Grab the E-Z curl bar at the close inner handle (either have someone hand you the bar which is preferable or grab the bar from the front bar rest provided by most preacher benches). The palm of your hands should be facing forward and they should be slightly tilted inwards due to the shape of the bar.
  2. 2With the upper arms positioned against the preacher bench pad and the chest against it, hold the E-Z Curl Bar at shoulder length. This will be your starting position.
  3. 3As you breathe in, slowly lower the bar until your upper arm is extended and the biceps is fully stretched.
  4. 4As you exhale, use the biceps to curl the weight up until your biceps is fully contracted and the bar is at shoulder height. Squeeze the biceps hard and hold this position for a second.
  5. 5Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •This is a great exercise for beginners - focus on form over reps

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
Biceps

Exercise Details

Category
Strength
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Level
beginner

Want workout programs?

Get structured workout plans using this exercise and more.

Browse Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Preacher Curl work?

Preacher Curl primarily targets the Biceps.

What equipment do I need for Preacher Curl?

Preacher Curl requires Barbell.

Is Preacher Curl suitable for beginners?

Yes, Preacher Curl is suitable for beginners. It's classified as a beginner-level exercise.

Alternatives to Preacher Curl

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.