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Cable Wrist Curl

Cable Wrist Curl Video Guide

The Cable Wrist Curl targets the forearm flexors on the underside of the forearms while using the cable machine to keep constant tension through the entire motion. Unlike a barbell or dumbbell wrist curl, the cable wrist curl provides smoother resistance, reduces momentum, and helps improve grip strength, wrist control, and overall forearm development. With the correct starting position—forearms resting on your thighs, palms facing up, and an underhand grip—you maintain full range, prevent injuries, and build stronger wrists for deadlifts, pull-ups, and other grip-heavy lifts.

How to Perform the Cable Wrist Curl

  1. Attach a straight bar to a low cable pulley and sit facing the machine with feet shoulder width apart.

  2. Take an underhand grip, rest your forearms on your thighs, and let your wrists hang over your knees.

  3. Curl the bar upward by flexing the wrist only; keep elbows still.

  4. Pause briefly to build tension in the forearm flexors, then slowly lower the bar to the starting position.

  5. Repeat controlled reps, keeping palms facing up and the motion smooth.

Cable Wrist Curl

Personal Trainer Notes:

  • Keep forearms resting on your thighs—only the wrist should move.

  • Avoid jerking the bar; maintain controlled movement and steady resistance.

  • Light to moderate weight gives better form and reduces wrist injuries.

  • Full range and slow lowering phases increase forearm strength.

  • If form slips, reduce load to maintain proper wrist extension.

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Alternative Forearm Exercises

Cable Wrist Curl FAQs

Yes. The cable wrist curl is a great exercise for isolating the forearm flexors, improving grip strength, and supporting wrist stability. The cable machine offers consistent tension which improves control, reduces risk of injury, and helps with forearm growth.

Sit in front of a low pulley, grab the handle with an underhand grip, rest your forearms on your thighs, and curl the bar using wrist flexion only. Keep elbows still, slowly lower the bar, and maintain tension through the full range.

Use an underhand grip for wrist flexors. An overhand grip becomes a reverse curl that targets the wrist extensors. Both movements help balanced forearm training, but they work different muscles.

Forearms respond best to higher-rep sets: 12–20 controlled reps with lighter weights. Focus on strict form, smooth tension, and slow eccentrics to improve forearm strength and reduce injury risk.

Yes. Stronger wrist flexors and extensors help stabilise the joint and reduce stress during heavy lifts, sports performance, and daily activities. Use controlled reps and avoid going too heavy.