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Suspension Trainer Bicep Curl

Intermediate
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A bodyweight isolation exercise using suspension straps to target the biceps, commonly scaled by adjusting foot placement to alter resistance.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Biceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Forearms, Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Biceps

10/10

Long Head, Short Head

Forearms

5/10

Flexors

Shoulders

4/10

Anterior Delts

Abs

3/10

Rectus Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Secure the suspension straps at a high anchor point. Grip handles with palms facing up, lean back until arms are fully extended, and align body in a straight plank.

  1. Keep elbows high and aligned with shoulders throughout the movement.
  2. Curl your body up by flexing the elbows, bringing hands toward the forehead.
  3. Squeeze biceps hard at the peak contraction.
  4. Lower yourself under control to full arm extension.
  5. Maintain a tight core and straight body line; do not sag hips.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows high
  • Plank body
  • Squeeze biceps
  • No slack in straps

Breathing

Exhale as you curl your body up; inhale as you lower back to the starting position.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Full extension of arms at the bottom to full elbow flexion with hands near forehead at the top.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure anchor point is secure.
  • Wear non-slip shoes to prevent sliding.
  • Stop if you feel sharp pain in the elbows.

Spotting

Not recommended; walk feet back to reduce difficulty if needed.

Common Mistakes

  • Dropping elbows
  • Sagging hips
  • Using momentum
  • Curling to chin instead of forehead

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow tendonitis
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Lower back instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 180 degrees
  • Wrist extension flexibility

Build Up First

  • Basic plank hold competency
  • Familiarity with suspension training

Also known as

TRX Bicep Curl, Ring Bicep Curl, Suspension Strap Curl, Bodyweight Bicep Curl

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