Band Reverse Wrist Curl
How to do band reverse wrist curls with proper form to strengthen your forearm extensors
Watch animated demo (GIF)How to perform
Sit on a bench or chair with your feet flat and your forearms resting on your thighs, palms facing down. Loop the band around your fingers and secure the other end under your feet or the bench so there is constant tension. Let your wrists hang off the edge of your thighs so they can move freely. Exhale as you extend your wrists upward, curling the backs of your hands toward the ceiling and squeezing your forearms. Pause briefly at the top, then inhale as you lower your wrists back down until the fingers point at the floor. Keep your forearms pressed into your thighs throughout and move only from the wrist joint.
Muscles worked
The reverse wrist curl isolates the extensor muscles on the back of the forearm, which control wrist extension and stabilize the grip. These muscles are frequently neglected and matter for pushing movements, climbing and any activity that needs a strong grip.
- Forearm extensors
- Forearms
Make it easier
Use a light band with low tension and a larger range of motion. If the band is too strong, hold it looser between your fingers or perform the movement without any resistance first.
Make it harder
Move to a stronger band or slow the lowering phase to three seconds. You can also add a two-second pause at the top of the lift and increase the number of repetitions.
Common mistakes
Mistake: Letting the forearms lift off the thighs to gain momentum. Fix: Keep the forearms pressed down and isolate the movement to the wrist.
Mistake: Moving the entire arm with the shoulder. Fix: Relax the upper arm and let only the wrist joint travel.
Mistake: Speeding through the negative half of the rep. Fix: Lower the wrists slowly and under control to double the time under tension.
FAQ
What do reverse wrist curls target?
The movement trains the extensor muscles on the top of the forearm, which balance the flexors and support grip endurance. Strong extensors also help prevent wrist pain from heavy pressing and pulling.
How often should I do wrist exercises?
Two to three times per week with 48 hours between sessions is enough. The forearms respond to volume, so keep the sets moderate and the form strict.