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Biceps

Concentration curl: how to do it right

The concentration curl is done seated with your elbow braced against your thigh. It isolates your biceps and rules out any momentum.

Main muscle
Biceps
Also works
Brachialis
Equipment
Dumbbell and bench
Level
Beginner
Concentration curl: start position
Start position
Concentration curl: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Sit on a bench with your legs apart and a dumbbell in one hand.
  2. Brace the back of your arm against the inside of your thigh.
  3. Curl the dumbbell up towards your shoulder.
  4. Lower slowly until your arm is straight.

Tip: Rotate your wrist slightly outwards as you curl up to squeeze your biceps harder.

Common mistakes

Moving your shoulder

Only your forearm moves; your upper arm stays braced.

Not straightening at the bottom

Straighten your arm fully.

Going fast

Lower over about two seconds.

Sets and reps

Guide ranges. Start with a weight where the last rep is hard but your technique holds.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3–53–62–3 min
Build muscle3–46–121.5–2 min
Health and fitness2–310–151 min

In GymOrbita you log every set and the app suggests the weight for your next session based on what you did last time.

Alternatives

If the machine is busy or you want a variation:

FAQ

Does it build muscle?

Yes, as an isolation exercise after a heavier curl.

General technique information, not a substitute for professional advice. If you have an injury or pain, check with a doctor or physiotherapist first.

Add concentration curl to your routine

GymOrbita has this exercise with its animation: log the weight and reps of every set and track your progress. Free.