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HomeExercisesOne-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl

One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl

Biceps
Biceps
Intermediate
Isolation
3-4Set
8-12Reps
45sRest
2-1-2-0Tempo
One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl
Animation

Description

The One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl is an effective variation performed on a Scott bench (preacher bench) using a dumbbell with one hand to isolate the biceps muscles. It is named after Larry Scott (1965 and 1966 Mr. Olympia champion). Performing it with one arm allows each bicep to work independently and is highly effective in correcting muscle imbalances. Resting the upper arm fully on the angled surface of the bench eliminates body swing. It intensely targets the lower part and the long head of the biceps brachii. When done regularly, it provides significant improvement in lower bicep development, arm symmetry, and isolation quality.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Sit on a Scott bench or preacher bench

  2. 2

    Grab a dumbbell in one hand and rest your upper arm on the angled surface of the bench

  3. 3

    Take a supinated grip (palm facing up)

  4. 4

    You can place your other hand on the bench or your waist for support

  5. 5

    Starting position is with the arm fully extended

  6. 6

    Keep the wrist neutral

  7. 7

    Engage your core muscles

  8. 8

    Curl the dumbbell upward by squeezing the biceps

  9. 9

    Squeeze the biceps maximally at the peak position

  10. 10

    Lower to the starting position in a controlled manner

  11. 11

    After completing the designated number of reps, switch to the other arm

Key Points

  • ✓Upper arm must be in full contact with the bench
  • ✓Performed with one arm
  • ✓Wrist must be kept neutral
  • ✓Full range of motion should be used
  • ✓Squeeze the biceps at the top

Common Mistakes

  • ✗Lifting the upper arm off the bench - breaks isolation
  • ✗Choosing a dumbbell that is too heavy - ruins form
  • ✗Swinging the weight - uses momentum
  • ✗Bending the wrists excessively - strains the wrist
  • ✗Inadequate range of motion - biceps are not fully worked

Breathing

Exhale while curling up, inhale while lowering.

Muscle Activation

biceps0%
brachialis0%
brachioradialis0%

Safety

Precautions

  • Those with acute wrist injuries should be careful
  • Those with acute elbow injuries should avoid it

Safety Tips

  • Start with a light dumbbell
  • Firmly position the upper arm on the bench
  • Warm up the wrists
  • Stop the movement if form breaks down

Frequently Asked Questions

Which muscles does One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl work?

One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl primarily works these muscles: Biceps. It also engages: Brachialis, Brachioradialis.

Is One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl suitable for beginners?

One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl is a Intermediate level exercise. Learning difficulty: Easy.

Can One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl be done at home?

Yes, One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl can easily be done at home.

What are common mistakes when doing One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl?

One of the most common mistakes: Lifting the upper arm off the bench - breaks isolation

How many sets and reps for One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl?

Recommended: 3-4 sets and 8-12 reps.

Related Exercises

Exercises targeting similar muscle groups

Biceps Exercises
EZ-Bar Preacher Curl

EZ-Bar Preacher Curl

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Lever Hammer Curl Machine

Lever Hammer Curl Machine

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Alternate Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curl

Alternate Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curl

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Dumbbell Zottman Curl

Dumbbell Zottman Curl

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Barbell Bicep Curl

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EZ-Bar Spider Curl

EZ-Bar Spider Curl

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Exercise Information

DifficultyIntermediate
Movement TypeIsolation
FocusHypertrophy
Injury RiskLow
Set3-4
Reps8-12
Rest45 seconds
Tempo2-1-2-0
Spotter RequiredNo
Home / Gym
YesYes
Effectiveness4.2 / 5
Popularity5.5 / 10
Learning DifficultyEasy

Equipment

dumbbellbench

Primary Muscles

Biceps

Secondary Muscles

BrachialisBrachioradialis

Benefits

  • ✓Maximally works the biceps independently with one arm
  • ✓Prevents body swinging
  • ✓Corrects muscle imbalances
  • ✓Classic Larry Scott movement
  • ✓High concentration and isolation quality

Goals

Muscle GainStrength
Back to All Exercises
One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl
Animation

Description

The One-Arm Dumbbell Scott Curl is an effective variation performed on a Scott bench (preacher bench) using a dumbbell with one hand to isolate the biceps muscles. It is named after Larry Scott (1965 and 1966 Mr. Olympia champion). Performing it with one arm allows each bicep to work independently and is highly effective in correcting muscle imbalances. Resting the upper arm fully on the angled surface of the bench eliminates body swing. It intensely targets the lower part and the long head of the biceps brachii. When done regularly, it provides significant improvement in lower bicep development, arm symmetry, and isolation quality.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Sit on a Scott bench or preacher bench

  2. 2

    Grab a dumbbell in one hand and rest your upper arm on the angled surface of the bench

  3. 3

    Take a supinated grip (palm facing up)

  4. 4

    You can place your other hand on the bench or your waist for support

  5. 5

    Starting position is with the arm fully extended

  6. 6

    Keep the wrist neutral

  7. 7

    Engage your core muscles

  8. 8

    Curl the dumbbell upward by squeezing the biceps

  9. 9

    Squeeze the biceps maximally at the peak position

  10. 10

    Lower to the starting position in a controlled manner

  11. 11

    After completing the designated number of reps, switch to the other arm

Key Points

  • ✓Upper arm must be in full contact with the bench
  • ✓Performed with one arm
  • ✓Wrist must be kept neutral
  • ✓Full range of motion should be used
  • ✓Squeeze the biceps at the top

Common Mistakes

  • ✗Lifting the upper arm off the bench - breaks isolation
  • ✗Choosing a dumbbell that is too heavy - ruins form
  • ✗Swinging the weight - uses momentum
  • ✗Bending the wrists excessively - strains the wrist
  • ✗Inadequate range of motion - biceps are not fully worked

Breathing

Exhale while curling up, inhale while lowering.

Back to All Exercises

Related Exercises

Exercises targeting similar muscle groups

Biceps Exercises
EZ-Bar Preacher Curl

EZ-Bar Preacher Curl

Biceps

Lever Hammer Curl Machine

Lever Hammer Curl Machine

Biceps

Alternate Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curl

Alternate Seated Dumbbell Hammer Curl

Biceps

Dumbbell Zottman Curl

Dumbbell Zottman Curl

Biceps

Barbell Bicep Curl

Barbell Bicep Curl

Biceps

EZ-Bar Spider Curl

EZ-Bar Spider Curl

Biceps