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Barbell Reverse Preacher Curl

A preacher curl taken with a pronated grip to target the brachialis and forearm extensors while the pad eliminates cheating.

ArmsBarbellElbow flexion
GoLightWeight mediabarbell-reverse-preacher-curl

Demonstration coming soon

Primary

BrachialisBrachioradialis

Secondary

Biceps brachiiForearm extensors

Equipment

Barbell

Pattern

Elbow flexion

Setup

  1. 01Set the preacher bench so the armpits sit snugly over the top of the pad.
  2. 02Grip the bar overhand at shoulder width.
  3. 03Rest the backs of the upper arms flat on the pad.
  4. 04Start with the elbows extended but not forcefully locked.

Execution

  1. 01Curl the bar up until the forearms are just short of vertical.
  2. 02Keep the wrists straight and knuckles up throughout.
  3. 03Squeeze at the top for a one count.
  4. 04Lower slowly back to near-full extension.

Checkpoints

  • -Upper arms stay in full contact with the pad.
  • -Wrists hold a straight line with the forearms.
  • -The lowering phase is slower than the lift.
  • -Shoulders stay down, not shrugging as the bar rises.

Common mistakes

  • -Letting the wrists collapse into flexion under the pronated grip.
  • -Lifting the elbows off the pad at the top.
  • -Slamming into full extension at the bottom.
  • -Loading like a regular preacher curl; the reverse grip needs less.

Programming notes

  • -Use 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps for brachialis and forearm growth.
  • -Cut load 20 to 30 percent from your underhand preacher curl.
  • -Place it after your main biceps work in the session.

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