Dumbbell Cross Body Hammer Curl - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Dumbbell Cross Body Hammer Curl

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Cross Body Hammer Curl.

MediumOuter forearm

About this exercise

The dumbbell cross body hammer curl is a unilateral biceps exercise performed with a neutral (hammer) grip, curling the dumbbell across the body toward the opposite shoulder. This path places unique stress on the brachialis and brachioradialis, building arm thickness and forearm strength.

How to Perform

  • Stand upright holding a dumbbell in one hand at your side with a neutral grip (thumb facing forward)
  • Keep your elbow close to your torso and your upper arm stationary
  • Curl the dumbbell diagonally across your body toward the opposite shoulder
  • Squeeze the biceps and brachioradialis at the top of the movement
  • Slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position under control
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching arms

Muscle Activation

Primary
Outer forearm
Secondary
Biceps

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Dumbbell Cross Body Hammer Curl

The Dumbbell Cross Body Hammer 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.