What To Know
- If you are looking for a more compound exercise that also works the forearms and shoulders, then standing hammer curls are a good choice.
- Incline hammer curls are better for building peak biceps because the incline position helps to isolate the biceps and reduce the involvement of the forearms.
When it comes to building bigger, stronger biceps, there are countless exercises to choose from. Two popular options are incline hammer curls and standing hammer curls. Both exercises target the biceps, but they do so in slightly different ways. In this blog post, we’ll compare incline hammer curls vs. standing hammer curls to help you determine which exercise is best for your bicep development goals.
What are Incline Hammer Curls?
Incline hammer curls are a biceps exercise that is performed on an incline bench. The incline position helps to isolate the biceps and reduce the involvement of the forearms. To perform an incline hammer curl, sit on an incline bench with your feet flat on the floor. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing each other. Curl the dumbbells up towards your shoulders, keeping your elbows close to your body. Lower the dumbbells back down to the starting position and repeat.
What are Standing Hammer Curls?
Standing hammer curls are a biceps exercise that is performed while standing up. Standing hammer curls work the biceps in a more compound manner than incline hammer curls, as they also involve the forearms and shoulders. To perform a standing hammer curl, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing each other. Curl the dumbbells up towards your shoulders, keeping your elbows close to your body. Lower the dumbbells back down to the starting position and repeat.
Incline Hammer Curls vs. Standing Hammer Curls: Which is Best?
So, which exercise is better for building bigger, stronger biceps: incline hammer curls or standing hammer curls? The answer depends on your individual goals and preferences.
If you are looking to isolate the biceps and minimize the involvement of the forearms, then incline hammer curls are a good choice. The incline position helps to keep the elbows close to the body, which reduces the amount of forearm activation.
If you are looking for a more compound exercise that also works the forearms and shoulders, then standing hammer curls are a good choice. Standing hammer curls allow for a greater range of motion than incline hammer curls, which can help to build more overall muscle mass.
Benefits of Incline Hammer Curls
- Isolates the biceps
- Reduces forearm involvement
- Helps to build peak biceps
- Can be performed with a variety of weights
- Suitable for all fitness levels
Benefits of Standing Hammer Curls
- Works the biceps, forearms, and shoulders
- Allows for a greater range of motion
- Helps to build overall muscle mass
- Can be performed with a variety of weights
- Suitable for all fitness levels
Which Exercise is Right for You?
If you are unsure which exercise is right for you, consider your individual goals and preferences. If you are looking to isolate the biceps and minimize the involvement of the forearms, then incline hammer curls are a good choice. If you are looking for a more compound exercise that also works the forearms and shoulders, then standing hammer curls are a good choice.
Tips for Performing Incline Hammer Curls and Standing Hammer Curls
- Use a weight that is challenging but allows you to maintain good form.
- Keep your elbows close to your body throughout the movement.
- Curl the dumbbells up towards your shoulders, not your chin.
- Lower the dumbbells back down to the starting position in a controlled manner.
- Avoid swinging the dumbbells or using momentum to lift the weight.
- Focus on contracting your biceps at the top of the movement.
Takeaways: Incline Hammer Curls vs. Standing Hammer Curls
Both incline hammer curls and standing hammer curls are effective exercises for building bigger, stronger biceps. The best exercise for you depends on your individual goals and preferences. If you are unsure which exercise is right for you, consider consulting with a personal trainer.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which exercise is better for building peak biceps?
A: Incline hammer curls are better for building peak biceps because the incline position helps to isolate the biceps and reduce the involvement of the forearms.
Q: Which exercise is better for building overall muscle mass?
A: Standing hammer curls are better for building overall muscle mass because they work the biceps, forearms, and shoulders.
Q: Can I perform both incline hammer curls and standing hammer curls in the same workout?
A: Yes, you can perform both incline hammer curls and standing hammer curls in the same workout. However, it is important to avoid overtraining the biceps by performing too many sets of each exercise.
