Skip to main content
SisuLift
Skip to main content
§ L · Exercises · ForearmUpdated 6/2026

Barbell Reverse Curl

Builds the forearms and grip strength. That carries over to pulling lifts, carrying, and many other gym exercises.

Muscle group
Forearm
Equipment
Barbell
Exercise type
Isolation
Technique
Moderate technique

Muscles worked

§ 01 · Muscles
Primary muscle
Forearm
Supporting muscles
Biceps

How to perform

§ 02 · Steps
  1. 01

    Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold the bar with an overhand grip at shoulder width.

  2. 02

    Grip the bar so your palms face down and keep your wrists in a neutral position.

  3. 03

    Brace your core, keep your elbows close to your body, and maintain a neutral spine.

  4. 04

    Curl the bar up under control toward your chest, focusing on your biceps while keeping your elbows stationary.

  5. 05

    Lower the bar under control to full extension without letting your elbows drift forward, and maintain control throughout the lowering phase.

Beginner's guide

§ 03 · Guide
What it works

Builds the forearms and grip strength. That carries over to pulling lifts, carrying, and many other gym exercises.

What it should feel like

You should feel it in your forearms, with some work in the biceps. It should not be felt in your wrists or lower back.

Most common mistake

A common mistake is swinging your body or bending your wrists. Use less weight, keep your elbows still, and your wrists neutral.

How to get started at the gym

§ 04 · SisuLift

Barbell Reverse Curl is ready to go in the SisuLift exercise library. The app builds you a program, suggests starting weights and shows this same animation during your workout at the gym.

  • ·A ready training program based on your goal
  • ·Starting weight suggestions and automatic progression
  • ·Set logging and rest timer at the gym
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
SisuLift app workout view

Tips

§ 05 · Tips

Keep your wrists straight and do not let them rotate so the load stays on the intended muscles. Avoid swinging your body, and choose a lighter weight if needed to maintain proper form.

A good isolation exercise for the biceps, where the overhand grip emphasizes forearm involvement.

More exercises: Forearm

§ 06 · Same muscles

Ready to start?

Your next personal record is waiting.

No commitment. No card. 14 days, and you decide yourself if it fits.