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Cable Lying Curl exercise demonstration - starting position (step 1 of 2)
Showing step 1 of 2
Step-by-step demonstration of the Cable Lying Curl exercise showing proper form and technique

Cable Lying Curl

Target Muscles

Primary:
Secondary:

Equipment Required

Exercise Type

Weight & Reps

How To Do

Lie face up on the floor with your knees bent, holding a straight bar attached to a low cable pulley with an overhand grip. Keeping your elbows steady at your sides, curl the bar toward your shoulders, squeezing your biceps at the top. Lower the bar slowly back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Lie face up on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
  2. Attach a straight bar to a low cable pulley.
  3. Grab the bar with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  4. Extend your arms fully, keeping a slight bend in your elbows.
  5. This is the starting position.
  6. Keeping your elbows locked in place, curl the bar towards your shoulders, squeezing your biceps at the top of the movement.
  7. Slowly lower the bar back to the starting position, resisting the weight as you go.
  8. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Explore more biceps exercises or cable exercises in our exercise library.

Alternative Exercises

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does the Cable Lying Curl work?
The Cable Lying Curl primarily targets the biceps, helping to build size and strength in the upper arms. It also engages the forearms as secondary muscles, improving grip strength and overall arm development.
What equipment do I need for the Cable Lying Curl and are there alternatives?
You need a cable machine with a straight bar attachment to perform the Cable Lying Curl. If you don’t have access to a cable machine, resistance bands anchored low can serve as an effective alternative.
Is the Cable Lying Curl suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners can perform the Cable Lying Curl as it is a relatively low-impact exercise that isolates the biceps. However, start with light weight to master proper form before progressing to heavier loads.
What are common mistakes to avoid when doing the Cable Lying Curl?
Common mistakes include lifting the elbows away from the sides, jerking the weight, and not controlling the movement on the way down. Keep your elbows fixed and move slowly to maximize muscle engagement and prevent strain.
How many sets and reps should I do for the Cable Lying Curl?
For muscle growth, aim for 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps using a challenging but manageable weight. If training for endurance or tone, try 2–3 sets of 12–15 reps with lighter resistance.
What safety tips should I follow for the Cable Lying Curl?
Always maintain a neutral wrist position to avoid strain and ensure the cable path is clear before starting. Use controlled movements and avoid sudden jerks, especially when lifting heavier loads.
Are there variations of the Cable Lying Curl I can try?
Yes, you can switch to an underhand grip or use an EZ bar attachment to reduce wrist stress. Additionally, performing the curl one arm at a time can help correct muscle imbalances and improve focus on each bicep.