STOP, You're Training Your Biceps All Wrong!
Athlean-XPublished on September 6, 2026
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
To achieve wider arms, focus on training the brachialis muscle rather than solely relying on traditional bicep exercises. Incorporate specific movements like crossbody hammer curls and narrow grip pull-ups to enhance your arm width effectively.
Key Points
- The brachialis muscle is key for increasing arm width.
- Traditional bicep curls may not effectively target the brachialis.
- Incorporating specific exercises like crossbody hammer curls can enhance brachialis development.
- Narrow grip pull-ups reduce bicep involvement while focusing on the brachialis.
- Dedicating a workout to the brachialis can lead to faster results.
Unlocking Arm Width: The Key to Bigger Biceps
If you're struggling to fill out your shirt sleeves and feeling self-conscious about the width of your arms, you're not alone. The solution lies not just in traditional bicep curl variations but in understanding and training the brachialis muscle. In this article, we'll explore how to effectively target this muscle to achieve the arm width you desire.
Understanding the Brachialis Muscle
To address your arm width problem, it's crucial to focus on the anatomy of the arm. While many people concentrate on the biceps, the brachialis is the muscle that significantly impacts the overall width of your arms. This muscle lies beneath the biceps and plays a vital role in arm aesthetics.
To locate the brachialis, place your fingers over the top of your bicep and feel for the muscle that pops out just after your fingers. This is the brachialis, and training it is essential for achieving thicker, wider arms.
Personal Experience: Overcoming Injury
An unfortunate incident involving a bicep tear while lifting my son highlighted the importance of training the brachialis. This injury forced me to adapt my training regimen, and the results were remarkable. I discovered that, by focusing on the brachialis, I could not only recover but also enhance my arm width.
Key Exercises for Brachialis Development
Here are some effective exercises to target the brachialis and help you achieve wider arms:
- Crossbody Hammer Curl: Perform this exercise with a fully pronated forearm to focus more on the brachialis. Drag your arm up close to your body while maintaining this grip.
- Narrow Grip Pull-Ups: Use a narrow grip to minimize bicep involvement while maximizing brachialis engagement. This can be performed with or without assistance.
- Kong Curl: A variation of the cable curl that reduces stress on the bicep. Curl until your hand meets your chest, alternating arms.
- Drop Curl: Focus on a slow and controlled movement, especially in the first half of the curl, to ensure the brachialis does most of the work.
Conclusion
To achieve the arm width you desire, you must prioritize the brachialis in your training routine. Substituting a couple of traditional curls with exercises targeting this muscle can accelerate your progress. Consider dedicating a workout each week solely to brachialis training alongside your regular arm workouts. By doing so, you'll not only increase your arm width but also enhance the overall appearance of your biceps.
For more science-based tips and exercises, be sure to visit athletex.com. Don't forget to subscribe and turn on notifications to stay updated with our latest content!
The daily brief
Three expert summaries chosen for you, every morning. Free, and one tap to stop.
One email a day. No supplement pitches. Unsubscribe any time.