Exercise technique

barbell prone incline curl

The barbell prone incline curl is a biceps-focused exercise performed lying face down on an incline bench. This position isolates the biceps and minimizes cheating by preventing the use of momentum or swinging. It primarily targets the biceps, with secondary engagement of the forearms.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Set up an incline bench at a 45-degree angle.
  2. Lie face down on the bench with your chest and stomach resting against it.
  3. Hold a barbell with an underhand grip, shoulder-width apart.
  4. Extend your arms fully, allowing the barbell to hang down towards the floor.
  5. Keeping your upper arms stationary, exhale and curl the weights while contracting your biceps.
  6. Continue to raise the barbell until your biceps are fully contracted and the bar is at shoulder level.
  7. Hold the contracted position for a brief pause as you squeeze your biceps.
  8. Inhale and slowly begin to lower the barbell back to the starting position.
  9. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Which other muscles are involved?

Forearms.

How do you log your sets?

How do you track progressive overload?

Source: ExerciseDB catalogue and demonstration. Related movements are options to compare, not equivalent loads or a prescribed progression.

Alternatives to explore

STARK is a strength training tracker for iPhone and Apple Watch. Log sets, repetitions and weights, then follow your progress. Core features are free. Explore STARK’s features