Difficulty level: Beginner
Target Muscle: Biceps
Equipment: Dumbbell
Instructions for proper form
Sit on a bench with your feet flat on the ground. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with a crush grip (palms facing you and your thumbs wrapped around the dumbbell). Keep your elbows close to your torso. Initiate the movement by flexing your elbows, lifting the dumbbells towards your shoulders, while maintaining a controlled tempo. Squeeze at the top and slowly lower the weights back to the starting position without letting the elbows drift away from the body.
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid swinging the weights or using momentum to lift the dumbbells. Do not let your elbows flare out; they should remain stationary by your sides. Make sure to keep your back flat against the bench to prevent excess strain.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
This exercise specifically targets the biceps, helping to build strength and muscle mass. It also improves grip strength due to the crush grip being used.
Expected results and timeframe
With consistent training (2-3 times a week) and proper nutrition, noticeable muscle definition and strength can typically be achieved in 6-8 weeks..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is ideal for beginners looking to develop their biceps without the risk of injury associated with heavier lifts. It can also benefit those who want to enhance their grip strength.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Studies have shown that isolation exercises like the bicep curl can significantly increase muscle hypertrophy when performed with proper form and consistent resistance training protocols.
Variations
Beginner modifications
You can perform this exercise with lighter weights, or even using resistance bands as a modification to help perfect the form before progressing to heavier dumbbells.
Advanced progressions
As you become more comfortable, you can increase the weight of the dumbbells or include variations such as seated alternating bicep curls or incline dumbbell curls.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
Integrate with tricep pushdowns, shoulder presses, or lateral raises for a balanced upper body workout.
Super set recommendations
Consider supersets with tricep extensions or close-grip push-ups to maximize muscle fatigue and hypertrophy.
Sample workout routines
Sample routine: 1) Dumbbell Crush Grip Seated Bicep Curl, 3 sets of 10-12 reps, 2) Tricep Pushdown, 3 sets of 10-12 reps, 3) Dumbbell Shoulder Press, 3 sets of 8-10 reps.
Exercise combinations
Combine with back exercises such as bent-over rows to build opposing muscle groups for balanced upper body development.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
Best performed towards the beginning of your workout when your muscles are fresh, ideally after a warm-up but before engaging in heavier compound lifts.