Cable Close Grip Curl - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Close Grip Curl

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Close Grip Curl.

MediumBiceps

About this exercise

The cable close grip curl uses a low pulley and a straight bar to maintain constant tension on the biceps throughout the movement. The close grip places emphasis on the outer (long) head of the biceps while the cable provides steady resistance at every point in the range of motion.

How to Perform

  • Attach a straight bar to a low pulley cable machine and set an appropriate weight
  • Stand facing the machine and grip the bar with a close, underhand grip
  • Keep your elbows at your sides and upper arms stationary
  • Curl the bar upward until your forearms are fully flexed
  • Squeeze the biceps firmly at the top
  • Lower the bar in a slow, controlled motion back to the start
  • Repeat for the desired number of reps

Muscle Activation

Primary
Biceps
Secondary
Inner forearm

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Close Grip Curl

The Cable Close Grip Curl is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.