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EZ-Bar Curl

A standing curl using the angled EZ-bar grip that builds the biceps while reducing wrist and elbow strain.

ArmsBarbellElbow flexion

Primary

Biceps brachii

Secondary

BrachialisBrachioradialisForearm flexors

Equipment

Barbell

Pattern

Elbow flexion

Setup

  1. 01Grip the EZ bar on the angled sections, shoulder-width apart.
  2. 02Stand tall with feet hip-width apart.
  3. 03Let the bar hang at full arm extension.
  4. 04Pin the elbows to the sides of the torso.

Execution

  1. 01Curl the bar up in a smooth arc.
  2. 02Keep the elbows fixed at the ribs.
  3. 03Squeeze the biceps at the top of the curl.
  4. 04Lower under control back to full extension.

Checkpoints

  • -The torso stays still with no backward lean.
  • -Elbows stay at the sides, not drifting forward.
  • -Wrists stay neutral on the angled grips.
  • -Each rep reaches full elbow extension at the bottom.

Common mistakes

  • -Swinging the hips to heave the bar up.
  • -Letting the elbows drift forward into a front raise.
  • -Cutting the bottom range short.
  • -Dropping the bar instead of controlling the negative.

Programming notes

  • -Use 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps.
  • -A 2 to 3 second lowering builds more arm size.
  • -The semi-supinated grip lets most lifters curl slightly heavier than a straight bar.

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