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Machine Preacher Curl
A biceps curl on a preacher machine that fixes the upper arms to isolate elbow flexion with constant resistance.
ArmsMachineElbow flexion
Primary
Biceps brachii
Secondary
BrachialisBrachioradialis
Equipment
Machine
Pattern
Elbow flexion
Setup
- 01Adjust the seat so the armpits sit atop the pad.
- 02Rest the upper arms flat on the preacher pad.
- 03Grip the handles with palms facing up.
- 04Sit tall with the chest against the pad.
Execution
- 01Curl the handles up toward the shoulders.
- 02Squeeze the biceps hard at the top.
- 03Lower slowly until the arms are nearly straight.
- 04Stop just short of lockout and repeat.
Checkpoints
- -Upper arms stay glued to the pad throughout.
- -The seat height keeps armpits level with the pad top.
- -Wrists stay neutral, not curling toward you.
- -The eccentric is slower than the concentric.
Common mistakes
- -Lifting the elbows off the pad at the top.
- -Setting the seat too low and pressing with the shoulders.
- -Slamming the weight stack at the bottom.
- -Cutting the range short to move more weight.
Programming notes
- -Use 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps.
- -The machine suits drop sets and slow negatives safely.
- -Progress one plate at a time once the top squeeze is easy.
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