The EZ curl bar is a great piece of equipment that can be used for a variety of exercises. It is especially useful for working your biceps and triceps, as well as other muscles in your arms and upper body. However, if you've never used one before, it can be a bit confusing to know where to start. In this article, we'll go over the basics of how to use an EZ curl bar.
What Is An EZ Curl Bar?
An EZ curl bar is a barbell that has a zigzag shape in the middle. This allows you to grip the bar with your palms facing inward, which puts less stress on your wrists and elbows than a straight barbell. The bar is typically shorter than a standard barbell, which also makes it easier to use for certain exercises.
How To Grip The EZ Curl Bar
When using an EZ curl bar, the way you grip it will depend on the exercise you're doing. However, in general, you'll want to grip the bar with your palms facing inward, and your hands shoulder-width apart. Your thumbs should be wrapped around the bar, and your fingers should be gripping it from the top.
Exercises You Can Do With An EZ Curl Bar
There are many exercises you can do with an EZ curl bar, but some of the most popular ones include:
- Bicep curls
- Tricep extensions
- Hammer curls
- Skull crushers
How To Do Bicep Curls With An EZ Curl Bar
One of the most common exercises you can do with an EZ curl bar is bicep curls. To do this exercise:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold the EZ curl bar with your palms facing inward.
- Keep your elbows pinned to your sides, and slowly curl the bar up towards your shoulders.
- Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, and then slowly lower the bar back down.
How To Do Tricep Extensions With An EZ Curl Bar
To do tricep extensions with an EZ curl bar:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold the EZ curl bar with your palms facing inward.
- Extend your arms straight up above your head, and keep your elbows close to your ears.
- Bend your elbows, and slowly lower the bar down behind your head.
- Pause for a moment at the bottom of the movement, and then slowly raise the bar back up to the starting position.
How To Do Hammer Curls With An EZ Curl Bar
To do hammer curls with an EZ curl bar:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold the EZ curl bar with your palms facing inward.
- Keep your elbows pinned to your sides, and slowly curl the bar up towards your shoulders.
- Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, and then slowly lower the bar back down.
How To Do Skull Crushers With An EZ Curl Bar
To do skull crushers with an EZ curl bar:
- Lie flat on a bench, and hold the EZ curl bar with your palms facing inward.
- Extend your arms straight up above your chest, and keep your elbows close to your ears.
- Bend your elbows, and slowly lower the bar down towards your forehead.
- Pause for a moment at the bottom of the movement, and then slowly raise the bar back up to the starting position.
Tips For Using An EZ Curl Bar
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using an EZ curl bar:
- Start with a lighter weight than you think you can handle, especially if you're new to using an EZ curl bar.
- Focus on keeping your elbows pinned to your sides for most exercises.
- Move slowly and with control, especially on the lowering portion of the exercise.
- Don't swing the bar or use momentum to lift the weight.
- Always warm up before using an EZ curl bar, and stretch afterwards to prevent injury.
Conclusion
The EZ curl bar is a versatile piece of equipment that can help you build strength and muscle in your arms and upper body. By following the tips and exercises outlined in this article, you can start using an EZ curl bar with confidence and see results in no time!