Biceps exercises

Cable Behind-the-back Curl

Also known as: Curl derrière le dos à la poulie · Κάμψεις δικεφάλων πίσω από την πλάτη στην τροχαλία · Behind the Back Curl (Cable) · bayesian curl · cable behind the back curl · single-arm behind the back curl

Primary
Biceps
Equipment
Cable
Type
Isolation
Suggested rest
1 min
 
One side at a time

How to do the Cable Behind-the-back Curl

  1. Set the pulley low, grab the handle with one hand and stand with your back to the machine.

  2. Step forward so your arm is pulled slightly behind your body, palm facing forward.

  3. Curl the handle toward your shoulder without letting your elbow drift forward.

  4. Lower slowly, feeling the stretch in your biceps, and finish your reps before switching arms.

Sets and reps

GoalSetsRepsRest
Muscle growth2–410–151 min
Muscular endurance2–315–2545 s

When you hit the top of the rep range on every set, add 2.5 kg (5 lb) next session and work back up.

Starting points from training research. Stop each set 1–3 reps short of failure.

Muscles worked

Primary

Biceps

Secondary

Forearms

The biceps bend the elbow and turn the palm up. Curls with different grips and arm angles hit the long head, short head and brachialis.

Alternatives

Same muscles, similar movement: swap in one of these if the Cable Behind-the-back Curl doesn’t suit your gym or your joints.

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Cable biceps exercises