Many novice bodybuilders tend to stick to various forms of underhand style curls. This limits total development of your biceps, but more importantly it also limits forearm development. Using a different grip, like that of the reverse grip preacher curl, will not only add variation to your routine but target the muscles in your arms at different angles.
Performing the EZ-Bar Reverse Preacher Curl
Like the standard EZ-Bar curl, the reverse variation requires the squiggly shaped EZ-bar and preacher bench. Sit on the bench and drape your arms over the slant board with your forearms rotated so your wrists and palms face the floor. Station your elbows directly in teh center of the board.
Grab the EZ-bar with an overhand grip while positioning your hands chest-width apart. Keeping your wrists perfectly straight, bring your forearms back toward your upper arm. Continue rotating at the elbow until your wrists and the EZ-bar reach the same height as your shoulder. Once the bar reaches this height, straighten your arms all the way back out. Make sure you are achieving full range of motion by fully straitending your arms; oterwise you will limit bicep growth potential.
Muscles Worked During the EZ-Bar Reverse Preacher Curl
As mentioned previously, the biceps muscles are certainly worked during the reverse preacher curl; however, this isn’t the primary work muscle during the lift. In actuality, the brachioradialis, which is located in the forearm and runs across the elbow joint, is the prime worker. This is one of the largest muscles in the forearm and accounts for a lot of its size. Other muscle groups involved are the brachialis and the extensors of your wrist. While tertiary, they are extremely important supporting muscles during the lift.
Why Use the EZ-Bar Reverse Preacher Curl for Bodybuilding
The primary reason to incorporate the EZ-bar reverse preacher curl is to addsome variation to your biceps routine. Additionally, the reverse preacher curl helps create a distinct size differance around the elbow joint which is an important aesthetic look you want as a bodybuilder.
Also, using this particular curl over a standing curl has important implications. The EZ bar reverse curl keeps more tension on your biceps at full arm extension when compared to standing curls. This additional work forces the brachioradialis to accommodate and will most likely result in higher strength and size gains when compared to standing curls under normal circumstances.
Recommended Supplements
Animal Pak by Universal Nutrition
Assault by Muscle Pharm
(TFSupplements is not responsible for any health complications stemming from this workout. Always consult an doctor before starting / changing a workout routine)