How to do the Cable Preacher Curl
Cable Preacher Curl is an intermediate single-joint isolation pulling exercise targeting the Biceps in the Upper Arms region. Performed using cable, it falls under the strength category. Secondary muscles engaged include Forearms.
Cable Preacher Curl demonstration · © GymiaFit
Cable Preacher Curl at a glance
- Primary muscles
- Biceps
- Secondary muscles
- Forearms
- Equipment
- Cable
- Level
- Intermediate
- Type
- Isolation (single-joint)
- Force
- Pull
Cable Preacher Curl step by step
- 1Adjust the cable machine so that the preacher curl pad is at chest height.
- 2Sit on the preacher curl bench and place your upper arms on the pad, gripping the cable attachment with an underhand grip.
- 3Keep your back straight and your elbows tucked in at your sides.
- 4Slowly curl the cable attachment up towards your shoulders, squeezing your biceps at the top of the movement.
- 5Pause for a moment, then slowly lower the cable attachment back down to the starting position.
- 6Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Cable Preacher Curl — questions
What muscles does the Cable Preacher Curl work?
The Cable Preacher Curl primarily targets the Biceps. It also recruits the Forearms as secondary movers.
What equipment do I need for the Cable Preacher Curl?
You need cable. If your gym does not have it, the alternatives listed further down train the same muscles with different kit.
Is the Cable Preacher Curl suitable for beginners?
It is classed as intermediate. Build the movement pattern with an easier variation first, then add load once the technique holds under fatigue.
What can I do instead of the Cable Preacher Curl?
Cable Close Grip Curl, Cable Concentration Curl, Cable Curl train the same muscles and make good substitutes when the equipment is taken or the movement does not suit you.
Log it, don't guess it.
The GymiaFit app has the Cable Preacher Curl demo, form cues and set logging built in — plus a muscle map that shows what you have actually trained this week. Free on iOS and Android.