Exercises · lower arms

Dumbbell Behind-the-Back Wrist Curl

A forearm isolation exercise curling a dumbbell behind the back to emphasize forearm flexors.

lower armsforearmsdumbbellbeginnerisolation

Secondary muscles

flexor carpi radialisflexor carpi ulnaris

How to do it

  1. Stand with dumbbell held behind your back, arm straight, palm facing backward.
  2. Allow the dumbbell to roll down your fingers slightly.
  3. Flex your wrist to curl the dumbbell up.
  4. Squeeze at the top of the movement.
  5. Lower the weight back down slowly.

Form cues

  • Wrist only
  • Don’t swing arm
  • Full wrist flexion
  • Controlled lowering

Common mistakes

  • Using arm instead of wrist
  • Incomplete range
  • Jerking movement

Breathing

Exhale during curl, inhale lowering down.

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