EZ-Bar Preacher Curl

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Intermediate

An isolation curl using an EZ-bar on a preacher bench that targets the biceps for arm strength and hypertrophy, enforcing strict form to maximize muscle tension without momentum.

About Exercise

Equipment

EZ Bar, Preacher Curl Stand

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Biceps

Popularity Score

8

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

Biceps

10/10

Long Head, Short Head

Forearms

7/10

Flexors

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-12 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on the preacher bench and adjust the seat so your upper arms rest firmly on the angled pad with elbows slightly bent. Grip the EZ-bar underhand at shoulder width.

  1. Curl the bar upward by contracting your biceps, keeping upper arms fixed against the pad.
  2. Squeeze your biceps at the top for peak contraction.
  3. Slowly lower the bar back to full arm extension without locking elbows.
  4. Maintain control throughout the descent to keep tension on the biceps.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Fix elbows to pad
  • Squeeze biceps hard
  • Control the descent
  • Neutral wrists

Breathing

Inhale as you lower the bar, exhale as you curl it up while bracing your core.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

Lower to full elbow extension with slight bend to avoid lockout, curl up until forearms nearly touch upper arms.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid heavy weights that compromise form
  • Do not lock elbows to protect joints
  • Warm up elbows and wrists before sets
  • Stop if elbow pain occurs

Spotting

Spotting not typically required; assist by stabilizing the bar if needed for heavier loads.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum from body
  • Hyperextending elbows at bottom
  • Flaring elbows outward
  • Gripping too tightly causing wrist strain

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow pain
  • Wrist injuries
  • Shoulder impingement

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate wrist extension
  • Shoulder flexion for arm placement

Build Up First

  • Basic bicep curl technique
  • Proper seated posture

Also known as

EZ Curl Bar Preacher Curl, Preacher EZ-Bar Curl

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