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Dumbbell Forearm Rotation

Beginner
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An isolation exercise using a dumbbell to rotate the forearm between pronation and supination, targeting forearm muscles for enhanced grip strength and wrist stability; ideal for hypertrophy and rehab.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Forearms

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

Yes

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Forearms

10/10

Flexors, Extensors

Biceps

6/10

Brachialis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

12-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on the edge of a bench with feet flat. Rest your forearm on your thigh, elbow bent at 90 degrees, holding a light dumbbell with palm facing up and wrist past the edge.

  1. Rotate forearm inward to turn palm down to full pronation.
  2. Pause briefly at the bottom.
  3. Rotate forearm outward to turn palm up to full supination.
  4. Pause briefly at the top.
  5. Repeat for reps.
  6. Switch arms after set.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Keep upper arm stationary
  • Move slowly and controlled
  • Maintain neutral wrist position
  • Squeeze forearm at end range

Breathing

Inhale during pronation and exhale during supination while bracing your core lightly.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Full rotation from palm fully up (supination) to palm fully down (pronation) with neutral wrist.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Start with very light weight to avoid strain
  • Stop if wrist or elbow pain occurs
  • Ensure stable forearm support
  • Avoid jerky movements
  • Consult doctor for prior wrist injuries

Spotting

Not required; self-supported isolation exercise.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum from elbow
  • Excessive wrist flexion or extension
  • Starting with too heavy weight
  • Not pausing at end points

When to Avoid

  • Wrist sprains
  • Elbow tendonitis
  • Acute forearm strain

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate wrist rotation range
  • Neutral elbow position

Build Up First

  • Basic grip strength
  • Controlled arm movement

Also known as

Dumbbell Pronation Supination, Wrist Rotation Dumbbell, Seated Forearm Twist

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