Should you fully extend on bicep curls

Bicep curls are a classic exercise for building upper arm strength and muscle mass. However, there is some debate over whether or not you should fully extend your arms at the bottom of the movement.

Arguments for Extending:

Full range of motion: Fully extending your arms allows for a greater range of motion, which can lead to improved muscle activation.
Reduced stress on joints: When your arms are fully extended, the load is taken off the elbow joint, which can reduce the risk of injury.
Better muscle isolation: Fully extending your arms helps to isolate the biceps, making the exercise more effective for targeting this muscle group.

Arguments Against Extending:

Constant tension: Keeping your arms slightly bent at the bottom of the movement maintains constant tension on the biceps throughout the entire exercise.
Reduced potential for cheating: When your arms are fully extended, it is harder to swing or use momentum to lift the weight.
Reduced biceps activation: Studies have shown that fully extending your arms can decrease biceps activation compared to partial repetitions.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the best approach for bicep curls depends on your individual goals and preferences. If you are looking for a more challenging exercise that promotes full range of motion and muscle isolation, then fully extending your arms may be beneficial. However, if you want to maintain constant tension on the biceps, reduce the risk of cheating, or enhance muscle activation, then it may be better to keep your arms slightly bent at the bottom of the movement.

Related Questions and Brief Answers:

Is it always better to fully extend on bicep curls? No, depending on your goals, it may be better to keep your arms slightly bent.
Can fully extending on bicep curls damage my joints? No, but it is important to use proper form and avoid overexertion.
Is it possible to cheat on bicep curls by not extending? Yes, but keeping your arms slightly bent can help reduce the potential for cheating.
Which type of bicep curl is more effective for muscle growth? Both full and partial repetitions can be effective for building muscle, but the best approach depends on your individual goals.
Is it important to warm up before doing bicep curls? Yes, warming up helps prepare your muscles for the exercise and reduces the risk of injury.

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