Difficulty level: Beginner
Target Muscle: Biceps
Equipment: Dumbbell
Instructions for proper form
1. Sit on an incline bench set to a comfortable angle (30-45 degrees). Ensure your back is firmly against the bench. 2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with a neutral grip (palms facing each other), letting your arms hang at your sides. 3. Keep your elbows close to your body, engage your core, and maintain a straight back. 4. Inhale and curl the dumbbells toward your shoulders by flexing your elbows. 5. Squeeze your biceps at the top of the movement, then slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position while exhaling. 6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions while maintaining control throughout the movement.
Common mistakes to avoid
1. Lifting too heavy weights which may lead to improper form or less control. 2. Swinging the dumbbells instead of using bicep strength to lift them. 3. Allowing your elbows to drift back instead of keeping them stationary near your sides. 4. Failing to control the lowering phase of the curl, leading to quick drops which can lead to injury.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
The double dumbbell incline bench hammer curl effectively isolates the biceps while involving the brachialis and brachioradialis, enhancing muscle definition and strength in the upper arms.
Expected results and timeframe
With consistent training (2-3 times a week) and proper nutrition, noticeable improvements in muscle size and strength should be observed in about 4-8 weeks..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is suitable for beginners looking to develop upper body strength, as well as more experienced lifters aiming to focus on bicep growth and aesthetics.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Studies have shown that resistance training, including exercises targeting the biceps through various curl variations, can lead to significant muscle hypertrophy and strength gains when performed consistently (Schoenfeld, 2010 and 2016).
Variations
Beginner modifications
Begin with lighter dumbbells and focus on form, or perform the exercise seated on a flat bench without an incline to reduce difficulty.
Advanced progressions
To increase difficulty, one can use heavier dumbbells, increase the incline of the bench, or incorporate pauses at the top of the movement for added intensity.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
Complement this exercise with tricep pushdowns, shoulder presses, and chest presses for a balanced upper body workout.
Super set recommendations
Pair the double dumbbell incline bench hammer curl with dumbbell tricep extensions to target both the biceps and triceps effectively in a superset.
Sample workout routines
Incorporate 3 sets of 10-12 reps of the double dumbbell incline bench hammer curl into an upper body workout that includes chest, back, and shoulder exercises.
Exercise combinations
Combine with exercises such as dumbbell bent-over rows and push-ups for a full upper body routine focusing on opposing muscle groups.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
This exercise is best performed toward the middle or end of an upper body workout, after larger compound movements like bench press or row variations that target major muscle groups.