Single Dumbbell Spider Hammer Curl exercise demonstration image

Video Coming Soon

We're working on adding video demonstrations for this exercise.

Single Dumbbell Spider Hammer Curl

Intermediate

An isolation exercise performed prone on an incline bench with a neutral grip dumbbell, targeting the brachioradialis and brachialis for arm strength and hypertrophy with strict form.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells, Incline Bench

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Forearms, Biceps

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Hypertrophy
Strength

Training Style

Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

Yes

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Forearms

9/10

Flexors

Biceps

8/10

Brachialis, Long Head, Short Head

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust an incline bench to 45-60 degrees. Lie prone with chest supported, letting one arm hang straight down holding a dumbbell with neutral grip.

  1. Keep upper arm stationary and perpendicular to floor.
  2. Flex at elbow to curl dumbbell toward shoulder.
  3. Squeeze at top with forearm perpendicular to floor.
  4. Slowly extend elbow to lower dumbbell with control.
  5. Fully extend arm without touching floor.
  6. Switch arms after reps.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Upper arm fixed
  • Neutral grip throughout
  • Squeeze at top
  • Control the descent
  • No shoulder swing

Breathing

Inhale as you lower the dumbbell; exhale as you curl up while bracing core.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Start with arm fully extended hanging down; curl until forearm is perpendicular to floor at peak contraction.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Use lighter weight for strict form
  • Maintain neutral spine
  • Avoid if elbow or wrist pain present
  • Ensure bench stability

Spotting

Not typically needed; self-spot with lighter weights or use safety pins if available.

Common Mistakes

  • Swinging with momentum
  • Hinging at shoulder
  • Letting dumbbell touch floor
  • Using excessive weight
  • Arching back

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow pain
  • Wrist injuries
  • Shoulder impingement

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion for arm hang
  • Elbow extension range

Build Up First

  • Basic hammer curl form
  • Core stability control

Also known as

Single-Arm Spider Hammer Curl, Prone Dumbbell Hammer Curl, One-Arm Spider Curl

Found this helpful?

Share your thoughts or help us improve this guide.

Hero Image

Master your movement.

Experience automatic exercise detection and rep counting - powered by the motion of your Apple Watch.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies.