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Kettlebell Goblet Curl

Intermediate
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Kettlebell goblet curl that targets biceps and forearms to build arm hypertrophy and grip strength; uses double-handed hold for controlled isolation.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Biceps, Forearms

Secondary Muscles

Traps

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Hypertrophy
Endurance

Training Style

Functional Training
Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Biceps

10/10

Long Head, Short Head, Brachialis

Forearms

8/10

Flexors

Traps

3/10

Upper Traps

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, core braced. Hold kettlebell by horns with both hands in front of pelvis, palms facing up.

  1. Keep elbows close to torso and shoulders relaxed.
  2. Exhale and curl kettlebell upward toward chest by contracting biceps.
  3. Lift until forearms are parallel to floor.
  4. Squeeze biceps at top.
  5. Inhale and lower kettlebell slowly to starting position with control.
  6. Extend arms fully for stretch.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows tucked to sides
  • Squeeze biceps hard
  • Control the descent
  • Grip firmly
  • Shoulders down

Breathing

Inhale during the lowering phase and exhale during the curling phase while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From full arm extension with kettlebell at pelvis to forearms parallel to floor at chest height, maintaining elbow tuck.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Select weight allowing strict form
  • Brace core to protect back
  • Avoid over-curling into shoulders
  • Secure grip to prevent slipping

Spotting

Not typically needed; partner can assist by stabilizing torso if form breaks or provide handoff for heavy weights.

Common Mistakes

  • Swinging the weight
  • Flaring elbows out
  • Leaning back for momentum
  • Dropping the weight quickly

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow pain
  • Wrist instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Full elbow flexion and extension

Build Up First

  • Basic bicep curl technique

Also known as

Goblet Bicep Curl, Kettlebell Bicep Curl, Double Kettlebell Curl

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