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Alternating Dumbbell Curl
A standing curl performed one arm at a time to build the biceps with full focus on each side.
ArmsDumbbellElbow flexion
Primary
Biceps brachii
Secondary
BrachialisBrachioradialisForearm flexors
Equipment
Dumbbell
Pattern
Elbow flexion
Setup
- 01Stand tall with a dumbbell in each hand.
- 02Let the arms hang at the sides, palms facing in.
- 03Set the feet hip width apart.
- 04Brace the trunk and pin the elbows to the ribs.
Execution
- 01Curl one dumbbell up, rotating the palm to face up.
- 02Squeeze the biceps at the top of the rep.
- 03Lower under control back to the start.
- 04Repeat with the other arm, alternating each rep.
Checkpoints
- -The elbow stays fixed beside the ribs throughout.
- -The palm turns fully upward as the weight rises.
- -The torso stays upright with no lean or sway.
- -The non-working arm hangs still at the side.
Common mistakes
- -Swinging the torso to heave the weight up.
- -Letting the elbow drift forward at the top.
- -Dropping the dumbbell instead of controlling the lowering.
- -Rushing the alternation and losing the supination.
Programming notes
- -Use 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps per arm.
- -Slow the lowering to 2 to 3 seconds for more tension.
- -Progress by adding reps before adding dumbbell weight.
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