Variable Resistance Curls
By combining variable resistance techniques with an unpredictable movement pattern, the trainee will be able to successfully take the muscle fibers to complete exhaustion. A training partner is necessary to provide additional resistance throughout the downward phase of the movement.
To apply the resistance, have your training partner place his/her fingertips on the inside of the barbell and slightly push down as the barbell is lowered. Since it is well documented that our muscles can handle greater loads as they are lengthened (otherwise known as an eccentric contraction), the additional resistance will make each repetition more challenging.
Execution
- While standing in an upright position with a barbell in hand, spread the chest and mentally prepare to begin the exercise.
- Flex at the elbows and draw the barbell up until the elbows are bent at a 90 degree angle. (Basically to the mid-point of full flexion.)
- Extend the arms and lower back down to starting position.
- Flex at the elbows but this time, take it to full flexion. (Draw the barbell to a position that has the palms approximately 4 inches from the shoulders)
- Extend the arms and lower the barbell until the elbows are bent at a 90 degree angle. (Mid-point of flexion)
- Flex at the elbows once again until full flexion is achieved (barbell at a position that has the palms approximately 4 inches from the shoulders)
- Extend the arms slowly while your training partner applies additional resistance by slightly pressing down on the center of the barbell.
- Repeat until the desired number of repetitions are completed.
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