Machine Hammer-Grip Preacher Curl

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Intermediate

Machine-based isolation curl using a neutral hammer grip to target biceps, brachialis, and forearms, building arm strength and thickness with strict form and stability.

About Exercise

Equipment

Preacher Curl Machine

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Biceps

Accessory Muscles

Shoulders

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Hypertrophy
Strength

Training Style

Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Biceps

9/10

Long Head, Short Head, Brachialis

Forearms

7/10

Flexors

Shoulders

2/10

Anterior Delts

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-12 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust the preacher curl machine seat so your upper arms rest flat on the pad with armpits at the top edge. Grasp the neutral handles with palms facing each other and fully extend your arms.

  1. Exhale and curl the handles upward by flexing your elbows.
  2. Squeeze biceps at the top with forearms vertical.
  3. Inhale and slowly lower the handles to full extension.
  4. Keep upper arms pinned to the pad throughout.
  5. Maintain straight wrists and avoid elbow lift.
  6. Repeat for reps with controlled tempo.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Pin elbows to pad.
  • Lead with wrists.
  • Squeeze at top.
  • Control the descent.
  • Chest forward.
  • Wrists straight.

Breathing

Inhale during the lowering phase and exhale during the curl up, bracing your core lightly.

Tempo

3-0-1

Range of Motion

From full elbow extension with slight bend to forearms vertical or past vertical at peak contraction, without hyperextending elbows.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid elbow hyperextension to prevent joint strain.
  • Use controlled movements to reduce injury risk.
  • Select appropriate weight for proper form.
  • Stop if sharp pain occurs in elbows or wrists.
  • Ensure proper seat height for alignment.

Spotting

Spotting not required; machine provides stability. Use safeties if available.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum from torso
  • Lifting elbows off pad
  • Hyperextending elbows
  • Gripping too tightly
  • Swinging weights
  • Incomplete stretch at bottom

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow pain
  • Wrist injuries
  • Shoulder impingement

Flexibility Needed

  • Basic elbow flexion mobility

Build Up First

  • Familiarity with basic curling form

Also known as

Hammer Preacher Curl, Neutral Grip Preacher Curl, Machine Neutral Preacher Curl

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