Barbell curl vs barbell preacher curl - which is better for the biceps

[Blinkyy]

I know both workouts are very similar to each other but I've heard a few people say the barbell curl is superior to the barbell preacher curl, is this true?

Thank you for answering.

[Benny90]

i prefer standing barbell curl but are similar,when i have back pain barbell preacher curl

[Deefekz]

I prefer Barbell curl for sure, never been a fan of the barbell preacher.

Would be minimal difference in effectiveness, but the preacher isolates the biceps better.

[kurtb2080]

Used to do both, now I lean towards the BB preacher. Feel like it hits the biceps stronger.

[terman1]

It just comes down to personal preference. Just choose the one you prefer and work to progress the lift from week to week.

[ThickAsABrick]

Basic DB or BB curls should probably be the primary movement for most people.

If you're doing more than one exercise, then you can do preachers too.

Anecdotally, I have noticed that people with longer biceps/lower insertion points tend to do better with preachers than those with shorter/higher insertion points. But that's probably not of concern to you just yet.

[wisdommaster1]

I prefer preachers, it really makes no difference both hit biceps well. Most people I see at the gym should probably do preacher curls or learn to do BB curls with good form haha

[419superman]

I do both. I feel honestly opposite, standing DB curls seem to isolate my biceps better.
Preachers help with my forearm strength.

[thomasmagnum]

Barbell is more of a compound lift for general mass, preacher for isolation and to get a "peak" going.

[Tommy W.]

Preachers are a more "strict form" exercise that will require less weight but provide a more direct stimulation as long as you use max ROM. Standing will allow more weight and also let you cheat a little which isn't always a bad thing. Try drag curls if you want to feel a good burn at the top of the exercise