Cable Preacher Curl Exercise

Builds strength and control by improving stability, coordination, and efficient movement.

Cable Preacher Curl
Cable Preacher Curl
Level: beginner
Equipment: cable
Force: pull
Mechanic: isolation
Core muscles: biceps
Secondary muscle: forearms

Description

Cable preacher curl focuses on controlled movement and maintaining proper body alignment throughout the exercise. The goal is to create tension where needed while avoiding unnecessary strain or momentum. This helps improve movement quality, joint stability, and overall physical control.

Instructions:

  1. Place a preacher bench about 2 feet in front of a pulley machine.
  2. Attach a straight bar to the low pulley.
  3. Sit at the preacher bench with your elbow and upper arms firmly on top of the bench pad and have someone hand you the bar from the low pulley.
  4. Grab the bar and fully extend your arms on top of the preacher bench pad. This will be your starting position.
  5. Now start pilling the weight up towards your shoulders and squeeze the biceps hard at the top of the movement. Exhale as you perform this motion. Also, hold for a second at the top.
  6. Now slowly lower the weight to the starting position.
  7. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Exercise FAQ

How long or how many reps is enough?

Stop when you can’t keep alignment. Quality beats duration—shorter sets with perfect form are more effective than long shaky holds. Think of it as curling done with repeatable, clean reps.

Where should I feel the effort?

You should feel deep tension through the trunk, not strain in the neck or hip flexors. Adjust the setup if the effort shifts away from the core.

Should I hold my breath during the effort?

No—use controlled breathing. A steady exhale on the hard part helps you keep tension without losing position.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or fitness advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine. Exercise safely and listen to your body.

Alternative exercises:

One Arm Dumbbell Preacher Curl

One Arm Dumbbell Preacher Curl

Grab a dumbbell with the right arm and place the upper arm on top of the preacher bench or the incline benc...

Incline Hammer Curls

Incline Hammer Curls

Seat yourself on an incline bench with a dumbbell in each hand. You should pressed firmly against he back w...

Cable Hammer Curls - Rope Attachment

Cable Hammer Curls - Rope Attachment

Attach a rope attachment to a low pulley and stand facing the machine about 12 inches away from it. Grasp t...