Reverse curls vs hammer curls for forearms bar. It is the ultimate curl comparison, hammer curl vs.

Reverse curls vs hammer curls for forearms bar If you’re not already using an EZ Bar for your curls, we highly recommend Jan 29, 2025 · The Ultimate Guide to How to Perform a Reverse Curl: Tips and Tricks The reverse curl, also known as the hammer curl, is a fantastic exercise that targets the brachialis and brachioradialis muscles, which are responsible for forearm strength and grip power. Whether you want bigger biceps, stronger forearms, or overall arm strength, this post has you covered! What are Bicep Curls? Bicep curls are one of the most popular arm exercises. Dec 29, 2021 · See our reverse curls vs regular curls comparison to learn about the differences between these two exercises and find out which is most effective. This complete guide includes several reverse curl variations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ ll dive into the world of reverse curls vs hammer curls, exploring their differences, advantages, and which one is right for you. The EZ Bar allows for a grip that’s closer to neutral, so if you have wrist pain it can help to alleviate that. com Dec 29, 2021 · What's the difference between hammer curls and reverse curls? Read this detailed comparison to learn which exercise is best for you and your goals. Start with the bar at arm’s length against the upper thighs. One advantage of the hammer curl is improved grip strength. Hammer curls are great, even safer and more effective on a cable. I am trying to reduce my training time due to other demands. Curl the bar up towards the shoulders until the forearms touch the biceps. Both exercises target the brachioradialis muscle, which runs from the upper arm to the forearm, the forearm extensors and, although Apr 10, 2024 · When it comes to building bigger, stronger biceps, two exercises reign supreme: hammer curls and regular curls. Continue until all reps are completed. The overhand bicep curl is especially effective for building this muscle because it places the biceps in a weak position, which forces the brachioradialis to lift more of the weight. Apr 2, 2025 · Hammer curl or preacher curl—which builds bigger, stronger arms? Discover key differences, benefits, and the best way to maximize your gains! Nov 30, 2024 · Are you looking to build bigger, stronger forearms? If so, you’ve probably come across the reverse curl and the cross body hammer curl. Hammer curls are a compound exercise that primarily targets the brachioradialis muscle, located on the outer side of the forearm. Additionally, you may choose to perform this biceps exercise standing or seated. Both exercises target the biceps, but they do so in different ways, offering unique benefits. But which one is better? Let’s delve into the differences between barbell curls vs hammer curls to determine the optimal choice for your fitness goals. Which is better for long term and for more of the forearm. For maximizing bicep growth: The reverse EZ bar curl offers greater bicep activation and a wider range of motion, making it ideal for those seeking to build larger biceps. Mar 13, 2025 · Hammer curls can build denser, stronger arms if you do them correctly. Here's how to do the exercise, who should add them to workouts, and more. In this blog post, we’ll compare hammer curls vs regular curls, examining their benefits, drawbacks, and which one is best for your fitness goals. It is the ultimate curl comparison, hammer curl vs. This variation offers a more controlled and isolated Jan 29, 2025 · The reverse curl, also known as the wrist curl, is a strength training exercise that primarily targets the brachioradialis muscle, located on the outside of the forearm. Dec 24, 2024 · What to know When it comes to building strong forearms and biceps, the reverse curl and hammer curl are two popular exercises that often come up in discussions. Discover how this often-overlooked exercise can enhance your grip strength, sculpt powerful forearms, and take your physique to new heights. As you curl the dumbbells up, the brachialis is forced to work harder to overcome the resistance. In fact, few exercises will challenge the extensors quite like a Reverse Barbell Curl. Both exercises target the biceps brachii muscle, but they do so in slightly different ways. 6 days ago · Cable Reverse Grip Pulls: Use a straight bar with a reverse grip to enhance brachioradialis and grip strength. Dec 25, 2024 · While the reverse grip curl effectively targets the brachialis, it doesn’t directly engage the biceps brachii to the same extent as the hammer curl. Barbell Curls: Compound and Power Barbell curls, on the other hand, are a compound exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, including the biceps, forearms, and shoulders. The inward rotation of the forearm during the reverse curl can restrict the full range of motion, potentially reducing the Oct 28, 2024 · The reverse curl ez bar, also known as the reverse wrist curl, is a compound exercise that primarily targets the brachioradialis muscle, located on the outside of the forearm. Dec 24, 2021 · Read our step-by-step training tutorial to learn how to perform reverse drag curls for your biceps, brachioradialis, and brachialis muscles. Hammer Curls work part of the forearm and the long head of the bicep. In this comprehensive guide, we’ ll delve into the nuances of reverse grip curls vs. Specifically, your hands are in a neutral position (palms facing in), which means the hammer curl trains your biceps and forearms more evenly. The supinated grip position also activates the forearms to a greater extent. Attach a cable attachment to the low pulley of a cable machine and perform the curl in a standing position. 8K Likes, 320 Comments. Rope Hammer Curls: Using a rope attachment, curl while keeping elbows tight to work forearms and brachialis. Both (spoiler alert) are curl exercises, but they differ in the type of bar that is used and the grip position. Aug 4, 2023 · What Is The Reverse Curl? The reverse curl is a variation of the traditional curl exercise that primarily targets the forearm muscles and the biceps brachii. Nov 11, 2022 · Yes, the reverse bar curl trains the brachioradialis, which is the long, thick muscle on the thumb side of your forearm. You may do reverse curls using free weights, resistance bands, or even a cable machine. Unfortunately you will need to reduce the work done by your affected arm in the gym for faster recovery. Hammer curls and alternating hammer curls are two popular exercises that target the brachialis muscle, a key player in forearm strength and grip power. reverse curl debate, exploring their differences, benefits, and which exercise is right for you. Thanks in advance! Hammer curls are a fantastic movement because they are in the middle between reverse and bicep curls. Aug 12, 2025 · Unlike a regular bicep curl, which involves turning the wrist into a supinated position, hammer curls keep the wrist neutral. Reverse curls primarily use the brachioradialis, which really makes up only a small part of the forearm. I can alternate/rotate movements if needed. Apr 1, 2024 · Potential for imbalances: If not performed correctly, bicep curls can lead to muscle imbalances between the biceps and forearms. Curl the dumbbells toward your shoulders, then rotate your wrists at the top. The EZ curl bar’s curved shape provides a more comfortable grip and reduces stress on the wrists compared to a straight barbell. Short answer: it builds stronger forearms, thicker arms, and a rock-solid grip. Aug 26, 2025 · Build better arms with the Reverse Curl. Reverse curls are less likely to cause injury. 3. The hammer curl indirectly strengthens the grip, as it requires a firm hold on the weight throughout the exercise. Jun 20, 2023 · The main difference between the hammer curl and bicep curl is that the bicep curl works both heads of the bicep muscle. Sep 11, 2024 · The reverse curl, also known as the hammer curl, is a fantastic exercise that targets the brachialis and brachioradialis muscles, which are responsible for forearm strength and grip power. Pause at the top of the movement, squeezing your forearms, and then slowly lower the barbell back to Learn how to do reverse curls properly to hit the brachoradialis and boost your bicep thickness. hammer curl benefits, form, and results in our detailed guide! Jul 9, 2024 · Highlights Reverse curls directly strengthen the extensor muscles, which play a crucial role in gripping objects and maintaining a strong grip. I want to pare down my exercises to a few. Both exercises target the biceps, but they do so in slightly different ways. For maximum forearm growth, use both exercises in a structured routine rather than picking just one. By incorporating reverse curls into your workout routine, you can improve your grip strength, enhance your athletic performance, and achieve more aesthetically pleasing forearms. With the EZ Bar, you can do reverse curls that are beyond the grip for a hammer curl, but not as far as 180 degrees from a standard grip. Oct 24, 2025 · Hammer curls and bicep curls differ in grip and muscles worked. Nov 27, 2024 · If you like to lift weights, you need to train your wrists. Apr 29, 2024 · In the realm of bicep exercises, reverse curls and hammer curls often ignite a fierce debate. Feb 29, 2024 · When it comes to building bigger, stronger biceps, two exercises stand out: hammer curls and reverse grip curls. Jun 22, 2024 · Reverse curls are a highly effective exercise for building stronger, more defined forearms. Mar 25, 2024 · For experienced lifters: Hammer curls can be a valuable addition to your routine to target the inner biceps and enhance forearm development. So the main/minor difference between using an EZ Bar and Straight bar is the amount of supination that occurs as you curl the weight. Apr 1, 2024 · Avoid swinging or using momentum. But, the forearm is also the weak link, so you usually use less weight than regular curls. So, are you ready to add the reverse bicep curl into your training regimen? Here’s everything you need to know. 2. This makes the bicep curl more effective for building bicep size. This blog post will delve into the nuances of hammer curl vs Jan 6, 2023 · Which is better for building biceps, hammer curls vs bicep curls? Learn the muscles worked by each & how to use them to get bigger arms. Variety: Incorporating various exercises in your workout routine helps to prevent boredom and maintain motivation. Apr 10, 2001 · Most people do them (with a barbell or EZ curl bar) because they build the upper/outer forearm as well as the biceps. Mar 11, 2024 · Which reigns supreme in the battle of hammer curl vs biceps curl? We asked an Olympic athlete to help us break down each and get you the answers you need! Mar 15, 2024 · When it comes to building bigger, stronger biceps, two exercises reign supreme: reverse curls and regular curls. Here's our ultimate guide on nailing the hammer curl. Dec 15, 2022 · Barbell Curls use a supinated grip (underhand), while a Reverse Barbell Curl uses a pronated grip (overhand). Lately what I have been doing for direct forearm work is Forearm Curls, Hammer Curls, Reverse Curls, and behind the back forearm Curls. Apr 26, 2023 · Including hammer and reverse curls in your routine ensures you target all aspects of grip strength and forearm muscles. In my years of coaching and personally chasing bigger, stronger arms as a powerlifter, I've utilized both the standard bicep curl and Mar 4, 2022 · For doing reverse curls, the EZ Bar is an incredibly valuable tool. This guide will walk you through the intricacies of how to do reverse curls properly, ensuring you get the most out of this powerful exercise. Jul 24, 2024 · Want to build bigger, stronger arms? Learn the difference between bicep curls, hammer curls, & reverse curls and choose the right one for you. Keep upper elbows close to the side. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the benefits, mechanics, and differences between hammer curls and reverse grip curls to help you optimize your bicep training. This article delves into the hammer curls vs. Dec 20, 2022 · 116. The bicep curl activates the long and short head of the bicep while the hammer curl mainly activates the long head of the bicep. Jan 16, 2025 · When it comes to building impressive forearms, the debate between reverse curls and hammer curls often arises. By understanding the differences between these two exercises, you can figure out which one is best suited for your individual goals and needs. Lower the bar back to starting position using the same path. So in my opinion hammer curls are worthwhile. Mar 20, 2024 · This is a guide to reverse curls. Both exercises target similar muscle groups, Mar 22, 2024 · When it comes to building impressive biceps, two exercises stand out: reverse grip curls and hammer curls. Both exercises target the biceps, but they do so in unique ways. Both target the muscles of the forearms and biceps, but they emphasize different areas and offer unique benefits. original sound - Jay Cutler. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of hammer curls vs pinwheel curls, empowering you to make an informed decision about which exercise best Nov 28, 2004 · I feel the best exercise for the brachioradialis is barbell hammer curls. Apr 21, 2023 · Hammer curls and bicep curls strengthen your biceps and use the forearm flexors and brachialis to varying degrees. Which Exercise is Better? The choice between hammer curls and tricep extensions depends on your individual fitness goals and preferences. To stress the short head more, there needs to be supination (palm facing up while contracting). Both exercises aim to sculpt and strengthen the biceps, but they employ distinct techniques and target different muscle fibers. Start with your hands hanging naturally at your side, holding the dumbbells as shown Hammer Curls vs Reverse Curls? Which better for forearms specifically? Hi everyone, I am trying to implement one of these curl variations for forearms specifically and then some brachialis stimulus as well. What is a Reverse Curl? The reverse curl, also known as the hammer curl, is a variation of the bicep curl that focuses on the brachialis muscle, which is located on the inside of your upper arm. Both exercises target the forearm muscles, Apr 12, 2023 · Reverse Curl Safety Due to the angle of resistance, positioning of the forearm and reduced total weight involved in the reverse curl - it is this particular curl variation that is considered to be generally safer than the hammer curl, especially if the exerciser has a history of elbow or shoulder joint injuries. For me I would have to say that reverse curls work the extensor carpi radialis longus, which is the big one nest to the brachioradialis. Grab one of our best-selling fixed barbells, flip your grip, and keep reading — your arms are about to finally look complete. The reverse curl is a compound exercise that primarily targets the brachioradialis, a muscle located on the outside of your forearm. While both exercises share similarities, they also have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Barbell curls are performed with a straight barbell that is held with a supinated (underhand) grip. Close grip, weighted pull ups, “narrow” grip barbell curls, and db curls are all better choices for pure bicep work. Train both with barbell reverse curls! 0:00 Intro 0:07 Opposite Pressures 2:16 Lower Arm Aesthetics 3:12 Difficulty Implications 4:11 Conclusion Instagram: / outalpha Feb 7, 2025 · The choice between reverse EZ bar curls and hammer curls depends on your individual goals and preferences. As you curl the dumbbells towards your shoulders, your elbows remain tucked close to your sides. It engages the biceps and forearms and helps with wrist stability and grip strength. Unlike traditional bicep curls, reverse curls involve gripping the barbell or dumbbell with a pronated (overhand) grip, shifting the focus from the biceps to the forearm muscles. Understanding the distinctions between these two curls can help you tailor your workout routine to your specific strength and aesthetic goals. Reverse curls primarily focus on the brachioradialis and brachialis, emphasizing the outer forearm and elbow flexion, whereas hammer curls heavily involve the brachioradialis and the long head of the biceps, promoting balanced forearm May 24, 2025 · Which bicep curl builds stronger arms? Compare reverse curl vs. Feb 1, 2025 · When it comes to building strong and defined forearms, the hammer curl and reverse curl are two popular exercises that often come up in discussions. I am not trying to use these for biceps as I am doing other curls for that. Hammer curls provide a more balanced approach, targeting the brachioradialis and engaging the extensors to a lesser degree. TikTok video from Jay Cutler (@jaycutler): “FOREARMS | REVERSE BARBELL CURLS #fitness”. … Apr 17, 2024 · The reverse curl is a useful exercise to train your forearm muscles. Coaching Apr 14, 2024 · When it comes to building bigger, stronger biceps, two exercises stand out: reverse curls and hammer curls. Don't do any movements that put great loads on the extensors and tendon (reverse curls, hammer curls, doing anything grip related basically; deadlifts, pullups) and use lifting straps. Both exercises target the brachialis and brachioradialis muscles, but they differ in their biomechanics and effectiveness. Tips Adjust the weight for a full range of motion without compromising control. This exercise targets the muscles on the underside of your forearms, which are responsible for wrist flexion and supination. May 20, 2024 · The reverse curl features a starting position and movement pattern nearly identical to the standard barbell curl, with the distinction being the difference in the grip. Add these wrist curl variations to your workout routine to reap the benefits. Jan 20, 2023 · Two curls in particular—the hammer curl and EZ-bar reverse curl — hit those areas of your forearms most neglected by wrist curls. Includes technique, training tips, benefits, muscles worked, alternatives, variations and mistakes. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of these two exercises, exploring their similarities, differences, and whether reverse curls can indeed replace hammer Apr 28, 2024 · A reverse curl is an upper body exercise that targets the arms, with a particular emphasis on the biceps and forearms. 2 days ago · When comparing reverse curls and hammer curls, it's essential to understand that while both exercises target the forearm muscles, they engage them differently. Jan 9, 2024 · Wondering which exercise is better for building bigger arms – reverse curls or hammer curls? Let’s see their strengths and weaknesses. Jun 14, 2025 · When it comes to arm training, two popular exercises often come up—hammer curls and reverse curls. Hold the peak contraction for a moment, then slowly lower the Nov 7, 2022 · How to Do the Hammer Curl for Bigger Biceps and Forearms This simple, effective curl variation works more than just your biceps. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding an EZ bar with a neutral grip. I commenly like to do my reverse curls on an easy curl bar Jun 20, 2025 · We’ve all heard of the concentration, hammer, and preacher curl, but what about the Reverse Biceps Curl? Although often overlooked, the reverse curl is fantastic for developing the arms. Check out this versatile addition to your arm workout. Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. Secure a resistance band to a stable object and perform the curl with your arms extended. Hammer curls are a great exercise as well but I can’t get the same pump/stimulus in forearms doing hammer curls as I do with reverse cables. Think about carrying groceries, holding a pull-up bar, or deadlifting heavy — your forearms will thank you. Choose the exercise that best suits your fitness goals and incorporate it into your workout routine for optimal results. When I do thumbless reverse curls I feel it works the extensores located closer to the wrist and really taxes your grip. Jan 5, 2025 · Building strong forearms is a crucial aspect of achieving a well-rounded physique. If you really want to work on your forearm size, wrist curls and reverse wrist curls are a better option. Jul 20, 2006 · Which is a better fore arm exercise for size and strength…hammer curls or reverse curls (with an EZ curl bar). This exercise works your forearm muscles to a greater extent than regular Zottman curls (but your biceps to a lesser extent). Either is fine to do, it'll just depend on wrist flexibility. Nov 19, 2025 · Reverse curls primarily target the brachioradialis muscle, located in the forearm, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the elbow and facilitating forearm rotation. Keep reading to learn how. How to Perform EZ Curls 1. Dec 15, 2022 · Barbell Curls and EZ Bar Curls are both popular exercises that are used to strengthen and develop the muscles in the biceps and forearms. . Nov 26, 2024 · Frequently Asked Questions How to Do the Reverse Biceps Curl Like most other curls, you can perform the reverse biceps curl with a barbell, dumbbells, a loadable cambered bar, or even cables. Aug 2, 2024 · Improved Wrist Flexibility: The wrist rotations involved in the Zottman curl can help improve wrist flexibility and range of motion. But which one is better? Jan 3, 2025 · Overview Reverse curls, also known as hammer curls, are a fantastic exercise for targeting your brachialis and brachioradialis muscles, which are essential for forearm strength and grip power. See full list on mybodyweightexercises. Hammer curls use a neutral grip, palms facing each other, to engage the biceps, upper arm, and forearm. Thanks Oct 21, 2024 · Hammer curls provide better focus on your biceps muscles. Reverse curls create higher activation in forearm extensors and brachioradialis, making them more forearm-focused. Mar 24, 2024 · Mechanics of Reverse Curls Reverse curls involve holding dumbbells with an underhand grip, palms facing your body. Tip: I sometimes train forearms during rest periods when doing legs, since I need to rest a while anyway during things like leg presses and I use that time to pump some reverse ez-bar curls Is it best to do reverse curls thumbless to activate and grow forearms? I've been working out for 6-7 months now and noticed my forearms are still really skinny and have barely grown. Gives my forearms a great pump. bicep curls. This exercise also engages the brachialis and Mar 30, 2024 · While reverse curls focus on building biceps size and strength, reverse wrist curls strengthen the forearms and improve grip strength. Oct 9, 2021 · Unlock the hidden potential of your forearms with reverse curls, the secret to building impressive strength and definition. Oct 1, 2025 · Reverse dumbbell curls challenge your grip and forearm endurance in a way normal curls never do. Dec 15, 2022 · Hold the barbell with both hands, palms up (supinated grip). Mar 14, 2024 · When it comes to building forearm strength, two exercises frequently come to mind: reverse curls and hammer curls. Mar 10, 2023 · Two popular options to build strong biceps and forearms are Zottman Curls and Reverse Curls. But which one would you do if you only did one, Hammers or reverse grip curls. The brachialis and brachioradialis will be much more heavily involved in hammer curls than normal curls, and developing both is necessary to have impressive arms. Jun 17, 2024 · Reverse Zottman curl: Begin with your hands pronated (palms facing away from you) instead of supinated (palms facing forward). Reverse Curl Exercise Tutorial | Fast Track Forearm Growth With One Exercise Buff Dudes Workouts 553K subscribers Subscribe Jun 23, 2020 · While there are lots of biceps & forearms exercises to choose from, very few work your upper and lower arms together. Search "how to do a hammer curl" @tyler-path Subscribe Reverse curl vs hammer curl — battle of the brachialis and brachioradialis curls 29K Dislike Apr 17, 2024 · Reverse Curls: Isolating the Brachialis Reverse curls are performed with the palms facing down, which shifts the focus away from the biceps and onto the brachialis. In this comprehensive guide Jun 27, 2024 · The reverse curl’s unique grip and movement pattern effectively target the outer head of the biceps, promoting a more defined and balanced bicep peak. The farmer walks will help slightly but they will mostly help with grip strength. The best way to get them to grow is to hit them with volume. Personally, I have had the best success with reverse cable curls. These two exercises are both excellent for targeting the brachialis muscle, which is responsible for flexing the elbow and contributing to forearm strength. Reverse curls muscles worked vs hammer curls — key difference Hammer curls build thickness, but reverse curls build detail. The overhand grip used by Reverse Barbell Curl puts a heavy emphasis on the extensors of the forearms. I prefer using Dumbbells for both Feb 14, 2025 · This guide covers bicep curls and reverse curls, how to do them correctly, their benefits, and which to choose for your fitness goals. Reverse curls do a better job engaging the brachioradialis and other forearm muscles. While the regular curl is performed with palms facing upwards, the reverse curl involves gripping a dumbbell or curl bar with palms facing downwards. Curl the bar up towards your shoulders, keeping your elbows close to your body. Hammer Curls vs Reverse Curls: Which is Better? Both Dec 5, 2024 · Are you looking to build bigger, stronger forearms? If so, then you've probably come across the terms "reverse curls" and "preacher curls" in your research. Apr 12, 2024 · In the realm of bicep exercises, hammer curls and pinwheel curls stand as two formidable contenders. Apr 6, 2024 · When it comes to building bigger, stronger biceps, barbell curls and hammer curls are two of the most popular exercises. Jan 3, 2023 · In this article, I will compare EZ Bar Curls and Hammer Curls, discussing the unique benefits of each exercise and providing tips on proper form and programming. It sure didn’t take much time to do 2-3 sets of hammer curls, reverse cable curls, and wrist curls one to two times per week and there’s essentially no recovery burden. Mar 20, 2024 · In the realm of bicep training, two exercises stand tall: hammer curls and reverse curls. Jul 20, 2025 · Key Takeaway Hammer curls target the brachioradialis and brachialis while keeping biceps engaged. This small shift completely changes the muscle recruitment pattern, making hammer curls an extremely effective upper arm and forearm exercise. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of reverse curls vs regular curls, helping you determine which exercise is best suited for your fitness goals. Oct 24, 2025 · Ever feel like your forearms gave up before your biceps did? The reverse barbell curl fixes that. Hope it gets better for you. Bicep curls use an underhand (supinated) grip, focusing more intensively on just the biceps. This exercise primarily targets the brachioradialis muscle, which is located on the outside of the forearm and assists in wrist flexion. Wouldn’t recommend overhand grip, they are more of a forearm curl than anything else. Nov 19, 2022 · Build your biceps, improve grip strength, and show your forearms some love with barbell reverse curls. Understanding the differences between these two exercises is essential for maximizing their effectiveness and tailoring your training program to your specific goals. You can include both hammer curls and reverse curls in your workout routine for a comprehensive forearm development program. Forearm training in general is underutilized for muscles that I think have a huge impact on aesthetics. And all you need is a pair of dumbbells. Apr 7, 2024 · Forearm curls and reverse forearm curls are two fundamental exercises that target the muscles in the forearms, playing a crucial role in grip strength, wrist stability, and overall athletic performance. hammer curls, comparing their benefits, muscle activation, and optimal execution. Hammer curls are better suited for building both arm mass and strength. If you are looking to develop thicker forearms and enhance your overall grip strength, hammer curls are a great option. Hammer curls primarily target the brachialis muscle, which is located on the front of the upper arm. The hammer curl, as its name suggests, involves a hammer-like grip that targets the brachioradialis and **flexor carpi radialis** muscles, located on the inside of the forearm. Learn how this move can target your forearms for more balanced arm development. Similar to the reverse grip curl, the hammer curl also engages the brachioradialis, contributing to forearm strength and grip power. Discover which exercise will get you the biggest arms and the most gains. dltasz xdbuc ivvymnqm odbgll yzvjtsk ecewaq ygaa tawbtf wnbbe pbbw hnzevzqu hfg gay kpkmy ipqlhaf