ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

During a bicep curl, what kind of movement is primarily taking place?

1. Elbow extension

2. Elbow flexion

3. Wrist flexion

4. Shoulder flexion

The correct answer is: Elbow flexion

During a bicep curl, the primary movement occurring is elbow flexion. This exercise primarily targets the biceps brachii muscle, which is located on the front of the upper arm. When performing a bicep curl, the forearm moves towards the shoulder, which results in the bending of the elbow joint. This motion is facilitated by the contraction of the biceps as they shorten to lift the weight. In a typical bicep curl, the elbow joint acts as the pivot point, and as the movement unfolds, the angle between the forearm and the upper arm decreases. This is characteristic of flexion, defined as the act of decreasing the angle between two body parts, specifically at a joint. Understanding this movement is fundamental for anyone training clients, as it underscores the importance of form and muscle engagement during resistance exercises targeting the arms.