GymPlan AI
Exercises › Biceps › Close-Grip Standing Barbell Curl

Close-Grip Standing Barbell Curl

Close-Grip Standing Barbell Curl is a beginner isolation barbell exercise that mainly works your biceps, with help from your forearms.

💪 Biceps🏋️ Barbell📈 Beginner🔗 Isolation🎯 3 sets of 10-15 reps
Close-Grip Standing Barbell Curl: starting position
Starting position
Close-Grip Standing Barbell Curl: end position
End position

How to do the close-grip standing barbell curl

  1. Hold a barbell with both hands, palms up and a few inches apart.
  2. Stand with your torso straight and your head up. Your feet should be about shoulder width and your elbows close to your torso. This will be your starting position. Tip: You will keep your upper arms and elbows stationary throughout the movement.
  3. Curl the bar up in a semicircular motion until the forearms touch your biceps. Exhale as you perform this portion of the movement and contract your biceps hard for a second at the top. Tip: Avoid bending the back or using swinging motions as you lift the weight. Only the forearms should move.
  4. Slowly go back down to the starting position as you inhale.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Muscles worked

Primary: BicepsSecondary: Forearms

Sets and reps

Do 3 sets of 10-15 reps with 60-90 seconds of rest, using a weight you can control through the full range. Add reps first, then weight.

Track your close-grip standing barbell curl with GymPlan AI

Log every set in seconds, see your progress on charts, and ask the AI coach to build a plan around your goals and equipment. 7 days free, no card needed.

Start your free trial

Close-Grip Standing Barbell Curl alternatives

Exercises that train the same main muscle, including options with other equipment.

Barbell CurlBarbell · BeginnerDumbbell CurlDumbbell · BeginnerPreacher CurlMachine · BeginnerCable CurlCable · BeginnerReverse Plate CurlsOther · BeginnerHammer CurlDumbbell · Beginner

FAQ

What muscles does the close-grip standing barbell curl work?

It mainly works your biceps; your forearms assist.

How many sets and reps of close-grip standing barbell curl should I do?

Do 3 sets of 10-15 reps with 60-90 seconds of rest, using a weight you can control through the full range. Add reps first, then weight.

Is the close-grip standing barbell curl good for beginners?

Yes. It is a beginner-friendly movement: start light and focus on the form steps above.

More biceps exercises →