Seated Close-Grip Concentration Barbell Curl
Seated Close-Grip Concentration Barbell Curl is an intermediate isolation barbell exercise that mainly works your biceps.


How to do the seated close-grip concentration barbell curl
- Sit down on a flat bench with a barbell or E-Z Bar in front of you in between your legs. Your legs should be spread with the knees bent and the feet on the floor.
- Use your arms to pick the barbell up and place the back of your upper arms on top of your inner thighs (around three and a half inches away from the front of the knee). A supinated grip closer than shoulder width is needed to perform this exercise. Tip: Your arm should be extended at arms length and the barbell should be above the floor. This will be your starting position.
- While holding the upper arms stationary, curl the weights forward while contracting the biceps as you breathe out. Only the forearms should move. Continue the movement until your biceps are fully contracted and the dumbbells are at shoulder level. Hold the contracted position for a second as you squeeze the biceps.
- Slowly begin to bring the barbell back to starting position as your breathe in. Tip: Avoid swinging motions at any time.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Muscles worked
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.
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Start your free trialSeated Close-Grip Concentration Barbell Curl alternatives
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Hammer CurlDumbbell · BeginnerFAQ
What muscles does the seated close-grip concentration barbell curl work?
It mainly works your biceps.
How many sets and reps of seated close-grip concentration 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 seated close-grip concentration barbell curl good for beginners?
It suits lifters with some experience. Beginners can start with a lighter weight or one of the alternatives below.