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Dumbbell Standing One-Arm Curl Over Incline Bench

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Standing One-Arm Curl Over Incline Bench.

MediumBiceps

About this exercise

This single-arm biceps curl is performed standing behind an incline bench and draping the working upper arm over the pad for support. The bench stabilizes the arm and eliminates swinging, isolating the biceps similarly to a preacher curl while allowing a full stretch at the bottom.

How to Perform

  • Set an adjustable bench to about 45 degrees and stand behind it
  • Rest the upper arm of your working side against the top of the incline pad for support
  • Hold a dumbbell in the working hand with a supinated (underhand) grip, arm fully extended
  • Keeping the upper arm pressed against the bench pad, curl the dumbbell upward toward your shoulder
  • Squeeze the biceps at the top of the movement
  • Slowly lower the dumbbell back to full extension
  • Complete all repetitions on one side, then switch to the other arm

Muscle Activation

Primary
Biceps
Secondary
Inner forearm

About the Dumbbell Standing One-Arm Curl Over Incline Bench

The Dumbbell Standing One-Arm Curl Over Incline Bench 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.