Zottman Curl
Zottman Curl is an intermediate isolation dumbbell exercise that mainly works your biceps, with help from your forearms.


How to do the zottman curl
- Stand up with your torso upright and a dumbbell in each hand being held at arms length. The elbows should be close to the torso.
- Make sure the palms of the hands are facing each other. This will be your starting position.
- While holding the upper arm stationary, curl the weights while contracting the biceps as you breathe out. Only the forearms should move. Your wrist should rotate so that you have a supinated (palms up) grip. 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.
- Now during the contracted position, rotate your wrist until you now have a pronated (palms facing down) grip with the thumb at a higher position than the pinky.
- Slowly begin to bring the dumbbells back down using the pronated grip.
- As the dumbbells close your thighs, start rotating the wrist so that you go back to a neutral (palms facing your body) grip.
- 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 trialZottman Curl alternatives
Exercises that train the same main muscle, including options with other equipment.
Barbell CurlBarbell · Beginner
Dumbbell CurlDumbbell · Beginner
Preacher CurlMachine · Beginner
Cable CurlCable · Beginner
Reverse Plate CurlsOther · Beginner
Hammer CurlDumbbell · BeginnerFAQ
What muscles does the zottman curl work?
It mainly works your biceps; your forearms assist.
How many sets and reps of zottman 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 zottman curl good for beginners?
It suits lifters with some experience. Beginners can start with a lighter weight or one of the alternatives below.