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Forearm curls with overhand grip

In this exercise, you perform controlled movements to promote your grip strength and forearm muscles.

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Preparation

Insert the handlebar and secure the carriage so that it is at hip height.

Starting Position

Stand with your feet hip-width apart in front of the handlebar, facing the wall. Grab the bar with an overhand grip shoulder-width apart. Keep your elbows close to your body at a 90° angle. Your wrists are bent forward.

Execution

Move your wrists slowly upwards without changing your upper arms. Fully extend your wrists and then lower them back down to the starting position in a controlled manner.

Muscles Used

Forearms

Tip

Perform the exercise slowly and without momentum to activate your muscles optimally.

What makes this exercise particularly effective?

In this variation of wrist curls, the grip is in an overhand position (pronated), with the palms facing downwards. This places less emphasis on the flexors and more on the wrist extensor muscles, as well as the brachioradialis in the upper arm. This execution is particularly effective for developing functional forearm strength and improving grip.

What effect does the exercise achieve?

  • Targeted activation of the wrist extensors: Trains the extensor carpi radialis longus & brevis, extensor carpi ulnaris, as well as the finger and little finger extensors.

  • Strengthening the brachioradialis: The pronated grip heavily engages this important upper arm muscle.

  • Improved grip and wrist stability:Isolated loading of the wrist extensors helps prevent overload and reduces the risk of injuries.

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. Underhand forearm curls are not part of the core BIG 5 training concept but can complement your training:

  • Synergy with pulling movements: Strong forearm muscles support pull-ups, rowing, and other pulling exercises with reliable grip strength.

  • Counterbalance to flexor-dominant work: To achieve balanced arm development and maintain healthy joints, it is important to balance flexor (bending) and extensor (stretching) muscles.

  • Efficient addition to functional training: Particularly useful during intense, unilateral, or grip-intensive training, targeted forearm training delivers benefits without taking much time.