Hammer curls are a popular exercise in the fitness world, known for their effectiveness in building arm strength and size. Visualizing the way you hold a hammer is the easiest way to remember how to do it.

This versatile exercise targets multiple muscles in the upper body and is a staple in many workout routines. In this article, we’ll delve into what hammer curls are, the muscles they work, how they compare to traditional bicep curls, and the proper technique for performing them.

What Are Hammer Curls?

Hammer curls are a variation of the traditional bicep curl, distinguished by the grip used on the dumbbells. Instead of the supinated grip (palms facing up) used in bicep curls, hammer curls employ a neutral grip, with the palms facing each other. This grip changes the dynamics of the exercise, engaging different muscles and providing a unique challenge for your arms.

Muscles Worked by Hammer Curls

Hammer curls primarily target the following muscles:

1. Brachialis: Located underneath the biceps brachii, the brachialis is a key player in elbow flexion. Hammer curls are particularly effective in isolating and developing this muscle.
2. Biceps Brachii: While the biceps brachii are more heavily engaged during traditional bicep curls, they still play a significant role in hammer curls. The neutral grip shifts some of the focus away from the biceps, but they remain actively involved.
3. Brachioradialis: This muscle of the forearm is prominently worked during hammer curls. It aids in elbow flexion and contributes to the overall strength and size of the forearm.
4. Forearm Muscles: In addition to the brachioradialis, other muscles in the forearm, including the extensors and flexors, are engaged during hammer curls, enhancing grip strength and forearm size.

What Do Hammer Curls Work?

Hammer curls primarily work the muscles mentioned above, with a particular emphasis on the brachialis and brachioradialis. The neutral grip used in hammer curls reduces the involvement of the biceps brachii compared to traditional bicep curls, allowing for a more balanced development of the upper arm and forearm muscles. This makes hammer curls an excellent exercise for achieving a well-rounded arm workout.

Hammer Curls vs. Bicep Curls

Similarities

• Both exercises target the upper arm muscles, particularly the biceps brachii, although to different extents.
• Both exercises involve elbow flexion, which is the primary movement in curling the weights toward the shoulders.
• Both exercises can be performed with dumbbells, making them accessible and easy to incorporate into various workout routines.

Differences

• Grip: The most significant difference between hammer curls and bicep curls is the grip. Hammer curls use a neutral grip, while bicep curls use a supinated grip. This difference in grip alters the muscle activation patterns.
• Muscle Focus: Bicep curls place more emphasis on the biceps brachii, making them ideal for those looking to maximize bicep development. In contrast, hammer curls distribute the load more evenly across the brachialis, brachioradialis, and biceps brachii, promoting overall arm strength and size.
• Forearm Activation: Hammer curls engage the forearm muscles more intensely than bicep curls, making them beneficial for improving grip strength and forearm development.

How to Do Hammer Curls

Equipment Needed

• Dumbbells: Choose a pair of dumbbells with a weight that allows you to perform the exercise with proper form.
• Bench (Optional): A bench can be used for seated hammer curls, although they can also be performed standing.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Starting Position: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand. Your arms should be fully extended at your sides, with your palms facing your torso (neutral grip).
2. Curling Motion: Keeping your upper arms stationary, exhale and curl the dumbbells toward your shoulders. Focus on moving only your forearms, keeping your elbows close to your torso. Your palms should remain facing each other throughout the movement.
3. Peak Contraction: Continue to curl the dumbbells until they reach shoulder level, fully contracting your biceps and forearms. Hold this position for a brief moment, squeezing the muscles at the top of the movement.
4. Lowering Phase: Inhale and slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the descent. Avoid using momentum or letting the weights drop quickly.
5. Repetition: Repeat the curling motion for the desired number of repetitions, typically 8-12 for muscle hypertrophy.

Tips for Proper Form

• Maintain a Neutral Grip: Ensure that your palms face each other throughout the exercise to maintain proper muscle engagement.
• Control the Movement: Avoid using momentum to lift the weights. Focus on slow, controlled movements to maximize muscle activation and reduce the risk of injury.
• Keep Your Elbows Close: Prevent your elbows from flaring out to the sides. Keeping them close to your torso helps isolate the target muscles.
• Engage Your Core: Maintain a stable core to support your upper body and prevent excessive swinging or leaning during the exercise.

What Muscles Do Hammer Curls Work?

As previously mentioned, hammer curls target the brachialis, biceps brachii, brachioradialis, and forearm muscles. The exercise’s unique grip and movement pattern make it particularly effective for developing the brachialis and brachioradialis, contributing to a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing arm.

Hammer curls are a valuable addition to any strength training routine, offering unique benefits for arm and forearm development. By targeting the brachialis and brachioradialis more effectively than traditional bicep curls, hammer curls help create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing upper arm. Whether you’re looking to increase arm size, enhance forearm strength, or simply diversify your workout routine, hammer curls are an excellent choice.

Remember to prioritize proper form and control throughout the exercise to maximize muscle activation and reduce the risk of injury. With consistent practice, hammer curls can significantly contribute to your overall upper body strength and appearance.