Barbell curls are a weight lifting routine which is used in bicep building. The goal of the barbell curl is to build overall bicep muscle mass. In order to do this, the body must be kept in a specific position during the duration of the exercise. Since weights are involved, the incorrect positioning of the weights, elbows, hands or shoulders could not only impede the goal, but cold also cause injury.http://www.bodybuildingforyou.com/exercise-workout/upper-arm-muscle-pain-injury.html

Selecting a proper weight of barbells is an important first step as the weight of the barbell will determine the ultimate size of the bicep. Although a desire to accelerate may exist, weights which are too heavy should be avoided, while weights should be selected on the premise that they can be readily lifted 8-10 times. http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/ridgely10.htm

In order to get the most benefit out of barbell curls, the important thing to remember is to keep the entire body stationary, while bending only the elbows. While the inclination to throw the shoulders back while lifting, or to move the elbows away from the body while lowering the barbell exists, these motions should be avoided as they hinder muscle building. Bend at the knees to lift the barbell, and grab it with both palms facing up.http://www.exercisegoals.com/barbell-curls.html

The motion of the barbell should be consistent throughout the exercise. Lift and lower the barbell at a steady and consistent pace, avoiding any jerking or sudden movements. As gravity intensifies the speed of the lowering barbell, so should you resist and maintain moment, lowering slowly and never dropping the barbell. Keep your shoulders and back straight, and elbows at your sides, traveling forward only slightly with each squeeze of the bicep.http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/Biceps/BBCurl.html

Check out the how tos below to learn more about how to get into shape.

1. How to do Barbell Curls
2. How to do Dumbbell Curls
3. How to do Seated Bicep Curls
4. How to do Concentrated Bicep Curls
5. How to do Incline Dumbbell Bicep Curls
6. How to do Single Arm Dumbbell Incline Curls
7. How to do an Incline Dumbbell Press
8. How to do an Incline Barbell Press
9. How to do Incline Dumbbell Flyes
10. How to do Push Ups
11. How to do Tricep Push Ups
12. How to do a Flat Bench Press
13. How to do a Close Grip Tricep Bench Press
14. How to do Wrist Curls
15. How to do Forearm Exercises With a Barbell
16. How to do a Front Deltoid Raise
17. How to do a Front Deltoid Raise Using a Barbell
18. How to do a Shrugs
19. How to do Tricep Extensions
20. How to do a Lateral Raise
21. How to do Standing Tricep Extensions