Biceps · Dumbbell

Zottman Curl

Biceps up, forearms down, one slick rep.

Zottman Curl exercise demonstration
BicepsSecondary: ForearmsDumbbell

How to do it

  1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, palms facing up.
  2. Curl them up to the top with palms facing you.
  3. At the top, rotate your wrists so your palms face down.
  4. Lower the dumbbells slowly in this reverse grip.
  5. Rotate back to palms-up at the bottom and repeat.

The one cue that matters

Lower the negative slow with palms down. That descent is where the forearms get hit.

Muscles worked

The Zottman Curl is a Biceps-first movement, with Forearms working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your biceps volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Zottman Curl work?

The Zottman Curl primarily works the Biceps with Forearms assisting.

How heavy should I go?

Pick a weight where you finish each set with 1 to 2 clean reps left in the tank. Own the top of your rep range before adding weight.

How many sets and reps of Zottman Curl?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

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