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Dumbbell Ulnar Deviation

Beginner
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A forearm isolation exercise using a light dumbbell to perform wrist ulnar deviation, targeting the flexor and extensor carpi ulnaris muscles to build wrist stability and grip strength; often used in rehabilitation programs.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells

Difficulty

1/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Forearms

Accessory Muscles

Triceps

Popularity Score

3

Goals

Strength
Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Forearms

10/10

Flexors, Extensors

Triceps

2/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit at a table with your forearm resting on the surface and hand extending off the edge. Grip a light dumbbell with palm neutral or down.

  1. Let the dumbbell hang from your hand in neutral wrist position.
  2. Slowly deviate your wrist toward the pinky side using only the wrist.
  3. Hold briefly at the end range.
  4. Controlled return to neutral position.
  5. Repeat for reps, then switch hands.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Isolate wrist motion
  • Keep forearm stable
  • Control the arc
  • Use light weight
  • Move slowly

Breathing

Inhale during the lowering phase and exhale as you return to start.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

From neutral wrist position to full comfortable ulnar deviation without elbow or shoulder movement.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Start with 1-5 lb weights
  • Stop if sharp wrist pain occurs
  • Consult professional for injuries
  • Avoid if acute wrist tendinopathy

Spotting

Spotting not required; self-monitor form and use light weights for safety.

Common Mistakes

  • Swinging the arm
  • Using elbow to lift
  • Excessive speed
  • Gripping too tightly
  • Ignoring pain signals

When to Avoid

  • Acute wrist injury
  • Wrist tendinopathy
  • Recent surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate wrist flexion and extension

Build Up First

  • Basic grip strength

Also known as

Wrist Ulnar Deviation, Dumbbell Wrist Adduction, Ulnar Wrist Flex

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