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Biceps

Hammer curl: how to do it right

The hammer curl lifts the dumbbells with palms facing each other, like holding a hammer. It works your biceps, brachialis and forearm.

Main muscle
Biceps
Also works
Brachialis, Brachioradialis
Equipment
Dumbbells
Level
Beginner
Hammer curl: start position
Start position
Hammer curl: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Stand with a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing your body.
  2. Curl the dumbbells up by bending your elbows, without rotating your wrists.
  3. Squeeze at the top.
  4. Lower slowly.

Tip: You can curl the dumbbells across towards your chest for a different stimulus.

Common mistakes

Elbows drifting forward

Keep them by your sides.

Swinging

Your torso stays still.

Rotating your wrists

Your palms stay facing each other throughout.

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

Hammer curl or regular curl?

Both are good: the hammer curl works your brachialis and forearm more. Combine them.

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

Add hammer curl to your routine

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