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Hammer curls

This exercise's special grip technique intensely engages the bicep muscle while also strengthening grip strength.

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Preparation

Secure the sled in the lower area. Then attach the handle strap and insert the handlebar into both handlebar clamps.

Starting Position

Place your feet hip-width apart and keep your upper body upright and stable. Lean back slightly, pull your shoulders back, and stretch your chest forward. Grab the handlebar below the bar with both hands in a hammer grip and tighten your entire body.

Execution

Now raise your arms evenly until reaching the maximum height. Then slowly and evenly move them back to the starting position.

Muscles Used

Biceps
Forearms

Tip

Make sure to keep your elbows close to your body. The upper body, as well as the shoulders and upper arms, should not move during the exercise.

What makes this exercise particularly effective?

During hammer curls, you hold your hands in a neutral grip (palms facing each other) instead of the traditional underhand grip used in classic curls. This grip significantly changes which muscles and tendons are emphasized. The exercise primarily targets the brachialis (under the biceps) and the brachioradialis (forearm muscle), while still engaging the biceps brachii.

What effect does the exercise achieve?

  • Increased arm volume & better aesthetics: Training the brachialis alongside the biceps lifts the visible biceps more, resulting in fuller, more defined upper arms.

  • Improved grip and forearm strength: The neutral grip changes the load on the forearm and wrist, enhancing grip strength, which is useful for many exercises and daily activities.

  • Joint-friendly grip: For individuals with wrist or shoulder issues, the hammer grip can be more comfortable as it requires less internal rotation and often reduces stress on these joints.

  • Training variation & new stimuli: Hammer curls introduce variation to biceps training, helping to avoid plateaus and stimulating different muscle areas. They complement classic underhand curls perfectly.

How does this exercise fit into the Big 5 concept?

The Big 5 include the fundamental exercises: squat, deadlift, bench press, pull-up or lat pulldown, and shoulder press. Even though hammer curls are not part of the classic Big 5, they complement the Big 5 exercises effectively:

  • Support for pulling movements: They specifically strengthen the arm muscles, which are important for pull-ups, rows, and other pulling exercises.

  • Balances muscular development: Hammer curls help balance strength between the upper arm (biceps) and the forearm.

  • Improve grip and forearm strength: This supports performance in exercises such as pull-ups and enhances overall functional strength.