Exercise guide · intermediate
Wide Grip Barbell Curl
The wide grip barbell curl targets the short head of the biceps by using a wider-than-shoulder-width grip. This inner bicep emphasis contributes to overall bicep width and is an effective complement to close-grip curl variations.
- Equipment
- barbell
- Typical range
- 8–15 reps
- Also works
- forearms, shoulders
01 · Set up
Hold the resistance with your wrists neutral and your upper arms resting beside your torso.
Stand or sit tall, brace lightly, and begin with the elbows extended without forcing them backward.
02 · Perform
Bend the elbows to bring the resistance toward the shoulders without letting the upper arms swing forward.
Squeeze briefly at the top while keeping the wrists aligned with the forearms.
Lower to nearly straight arms under control before beginning the next repetition.
Coaching tips
- Keep the non-working joints still.
- Use the full controlled range.
- Own the return phase.
Common mistakes
- Moving the torso to create momentum.
- Using resistance that shortens the range.
- Letting the resistance drop on the return.
What it should feel like
Expect the biceps to do most of the work, without sharp or joint-focused pain.
Stop or modify when
Stop or shorten the range for sharp, sudden, worsening, or joint-focused pain.
Reviewed alternatives