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Best Arms Workouts

About

The arm comprises four primary muscle groups: the Shoulders, Biceps, Triceps, and Forearms.

Due to their proximity, these groups are often trained together to optimize muscle engagement.

To achieve balanced development, it's essential to incorporate exercises that cater to each muscle group systematically.

If you are looking to build a serious set of pipes (biceps and triceps), you need to train them directly. Many misguided souls, however, will train their arms into oblivion, thinking that MORE IS BETTER. This is not the case.

So, how many exercises make an effective workout? And, how should you choose the right amount of sets, reps, and types of exercises?

The number of exercises that make an effective arm workout can range from 1-3 movements per session, with any more than that resulting in excessive fatigue and inconsistent form and technique. It is common that an arm routine consists of 1-3 arm exercises per muscle each workout.

In this article, I’ll discuss a few factors that can influence your training program to help you determine what the most effective arm workout split looks like for you and your goals, and help you answer the question of how many arm exercises make an effective workout. I’ll also give you a sample arm routine as well.

How to Choose the BEST Arm Exercises for Your Workouts?

When determining how many exercises you should include in a single arm workout, you first need to determine how many days per week you're going to train arms. When we look at arm training, it is suggested that you perform at least 8 total sets (per week) to maintain your arms, with some suggesting 10-15 total sets per week to be the most effective for most people.

With those ranges established, you could break that down however you see fit, performing 3-5 sets per movement and getting adequate volume over the course of the week.

Personally, I suggest you train arms more than one time per week (2-4 times for most people). Training the arms more frequently will also mean you will do LESS each day, often selecting only one arm exercise per muscle if you are training arms directly three or more times per week.

This will allow you to train with higher quality repetitions, offer some more variety, and allow the arms to recover just enough between sessions to maximize muscle growth.

CHOOSING BICEP MOVEMENTS

When training the biceps, it is best to select 2-3 movements per cycle that vary in angles (for example reclining incline curls, preacher curls, and standing curls). Additionally, playing with wrist supination and pronation can also shift emphasis to various aspects of the biceps and forearms (hammer curls vs supinated curls).

Whatever you do, be sure to add some variety by changing movements every 4-6 weeks, and selecting at least 3 exercises to do throughout that month.

CHOOSING TRICEPS MOVEMENTS

When training triceps, it is important that you train at least 3 different movement patterns to effectively hit all three heads of the triceps.

The first, is the lateral head, which is hit when doing pressing movements, often with heavier or moderately heavy loads (8-12 reps). This can be movements like close grip bench press or dips.

The second, is the long head of the triceps as is targeted when performing movements like overhead tricep extensions, straight bar push down, or skull crushers. Full range of motion is key here to maximally place tension of the triceps.

The third, is the medial head of the triceps, which can be targeted performing movements like the reverse grip pushdown or rope pushdown.

More Arm Exercises is NOT Always Better!

It is important to note that while exercise variety can be a great way to stimulate new growth, changing exercises weekly, or every other week can limit your ability to progressively overload a movement (one of the most effective principles of muscle growth).

When training arms (and most muscles) it is important to select a few movements that you will perform throughout the entire training cycle (typically 4-6 weeks), and progress them with increased loads, slower tempos, more reps per set, or a combination of the three.

It is also important to remember that doing more and more sets, reps, and exercises in a given workout (and in turn in a given week), does not equate to muscle growth. Rather, adhering to a set of guidelines and progressing within the total weekly set volumes is key.

So, for example, in week 1-3 you progress from doing 10 sets in week one to 12 sets in week three. In week four, you can think about going back to doing only 10 sets, but increasing the loading to challenge yourself with progressive overloading of the weight, rather than doing 14, 15, or 18 sets of arms in that week (which we know is most likely too much volume for most people).

By experimenting with what volumes, loading, and reps help you feel the muscle working during the set and some soreness afterward are all great indicators of optimal and effective range for your training.

Final Thoughts

Training arms should be done with the utmost emphasis on feeling “the pump”. If you can achieve a feeling of muscle fullness and direct fatigue, while using fuller ranges of motion, there is a strong chance you will be building muscle.

Be sure to train hard enough to elicit that response, yet not heavy enough that you focus more on moving the weight more than feeling the muscle move the weight… there is a big difference.

The 15 Best Arms Exercises

Ranked By

Ranked based on Fitbod's internal data set of the most effective exercises. Learn More

  • 1. Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise

    Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    4,323,992
    Shoulders Strength
    97 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise is an exercise for the shoulders, focusing on the rear deltoids. By leaning forward with your hips back, you can effectively work the muscles at the back of your shoulders.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell in each hand.
    2. Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips until your torso is at a 90-degree angle.
    3. Keep your elbows bent and raise the dumbbells out to the sides until they reach shoulder height.
    4. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the lift and then lower the dumbbells back down slowly.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    15lbs
    2
    8reps
    15lbs
    3
    8reps
    15lbs
  • 2. Barbell Curl

    Barbell Curl demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    5,529,638
    Biceps Strength
    96 mScore
    Biceps
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells

    The Barbell Curl is a great exercise that targets your biceps by isolating the muscle. Using a barbell helps keep your movements stable so you can focus on building strength without losing balance.

    How to do it

    1. Stand up straight and grasp a barbell with both hands, shoulder-width apart, palms facing away.
    2. Tighten your core by taking a deep breath and flexing your stomach muscles.
    3. Bend your elbows to lift the barbell to shoulder height, keeping your elbows close to your sides.
    4. Exhale and slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    40lbs
    2
    8reps
    40lbs
    3
    8reps
    40lbs
  • 3. Close-Grip Bench Press

    Close-Grip Bench Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    3,536,639
    Triceps Strength
    92 mScore
    Triceps
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells
    Photo of Flat Bench
    Flat Bench

    The Close-Grip Bench Press targets the triceps more than the standard bench press by keeping your hands closer together. This exercise is ideal for adding triceps strength to your chest workout.

    How to do it

    1. Lie on a bench with your shoulder blades squeezed together and feet flat on the ground.
    2. Grab the barbell with hands slightly closer than shoulder-width apart, and lift it over your chest.
    3. Lower the barbell toward your chest by bending your elbows, keeping them close to your body.
    4. Touch the barbell lightly on your chest, then push it back up to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    60lbs
    2
    8reps
    60lbs
    3
    8reps
    60lbs
  • 4. Dip

    Dip demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    2,690,853
    Triceps Strength
    92 mScore
    Triceps
    Photo of Dip (Parallel) Bar
    Dip (Parallel) Bar

    Dips are a bodyweight exercise that primarily targets the triceps. You lift and lower your body using your arms while keeping your core engaged.

    How to do it

    1. Hold onto the dip bars with straight arms and slightly bent elbows.
    2. Suspended above the ground, brace your core and keep your back straight.
    3. Lean your body forward slightly and pull your elbows down to lower yourself.
    4. Keep your elbows close to your sides until they reach a 90-degree angle.
    5. Push back up to straighten your arms and return to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    7reps
    2
    7reps
    3
    7reps
    4
    7reps
  • 5. Dumbbell Bicep Curl

    Dumbbell Bicep Curl demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    10,161,709
    Biceps Strength
    99 mScore
    Biceps
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Bicep Curl is a popular exercise that targets the biceps, helping to build strength and muscle. Using dumbbells allows for better control and range of motion, making it an effective choice for workouts.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright and hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, palms facing you.
    2. Engage your core by breathing deeply and tightening your abdominal muscles.
    3. Flex your elbows to lift one dumbbell up towards your shoulder while keeping your elbow close to your side.
    4. As you lift, rotate your wrist so your palm faces your shoulder at the top of the curl.
    5. Lower the dumbbell back to the starting position by rotating your wrist back to palms-facing position.
    6. Once the first dumbbell is down, repeat the process with the other arm.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    25lbs
    2
    8reps
    25lbs
    3
    8reps
    25lbs
  • 6. Dumbbell Skullcrusher

    Dumbbell Skullcrusher demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    5,879,914
    Triceps Strength
    98 mScore
    Triceps
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells
    Photo of Flat Bench
    Flat Bench

    The Dumbbell Skullcrusher is a great exercise for strengthening your triceps. Using dumbbells helps ensure both arms work equally and adds a challenge to your stability.

    How to do it

    1. Lie on your back on a bench with your shoulder blades squeezed together and feet flat on the floor.
    2. Ensure the bench supports your head, shoulders, and hips.
    3. Hold dumbbells above your shoulders with palms facing each other and elbows slightly bent.
    4. Engage your core and lower the dumbbells behind your head by bending your elbows, keeping your upper arms stable.
    5. When the dumbbells are just above your forehead, exhale and lift them back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    20lbs
    2
    8reps
    20lbs
    3
    8reps
    20lbs
  • 7. EZ-Bar Curl

    EZ-Bar Curl demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    4,152,468
    Biceps Strength
    97 mScore
    Biceps
    Photo of EZ Bar
    EZ Bar

    The EZ-Bar Curl is an exercise that focuses on strengthening your biceps. Using an EZ-Bar offers better stability and comfort for your wrists, making it easier to concentrate on lifting weights.

    How to do it

    1. Stand up straight and hold the EZ-Bar with both hands, palms facing away from you, at waist height.
    2. Engage your core by tightening your stomach muscles.
    3. Curl the bar by bending your elbows, raising it to shoulder height while keeping your elbows close to your body.
    4. Lower the bar back to the starting position and exhale.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    40lbs
    2
    8reps
    40lbs
    3
    8reps
    40lbs
  • 8. Hammer Curls

    Hammer Curls demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    8,921,793
    Biceps Strength
    98 mScore
    Biceps
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    Hammer Curls are a bicep exercise that involve turning your wrists for a more natural grip. This helps target the long head of the bicep while building muscle and strength.

    How to do it

    1. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.
    2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing inward and arms at your sides.
    3. Engage your core by tightening your stomach muscles.
    4. Curl one dumbbell up to shoulder height while keeping your elbow close to your side.
    5. Lower the dumbbell back down to the starting position.
    6. Switch arms and repeat the movement.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    25lbs
    2
    8reps
    25lbs
    3
    8reps
    25lbs
  • 9. Cable Rope Tricep Extension

    Cable Rope Tricep Extension demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    5,575,234
    Triceps Strength
    100 mScore
    Triceps
    Photo of Rope Cable
    Rope Cable

    The Cable Rope Tricep Extension is a great exercise to specifically strengthen your triceps. Using a cable machine allows for better control and consistent tension, making it ideal for adjusting weights easily and performing high-repetition sets.

    How to do it

    1. Set the pulley to the highest position and attach the rope.
    2. Hold the rope with your palms facing each other, elbows at your sides, bent at 90 degrees.
    3. Engage your core and keep your back straight.
    4. Extend your arms by straightening your elbows while keeping them close to your body.
    5. Return to the starting position by bending your elbows.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    40lbs
    2
    8reps
    40lbs
    3
    8reps
    40lbs
  • 10. Skullcrusher

    Skullcrusher demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    2,594,390
    Triceps Strength
    97 mScore
    Triceps
    Photo of EZ Bar
    EZ Bar
    Photo of Flat Bench
    Flat Bench

    Skullcrushers are a triceps exercise performed while lying on a bench. This movement focuses on isolating the triceps and can be done with an EZ-Bar for better grip and stability.

    How to do it

    1. Lie back on a bench, keeping your shoulder blades squeezed and your heels flat on the ground.
    2. Ensure the bench supports your head, shoulders, and buttocks at all times.
    3. Hold the EZ-Bar above your shoulders with hands shoulder-width apart.
    4. Keep your upper arms still and bend your elbows to lower the bar just above your forehead.
    5. Exhale as you extend your arms to lift the bar back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    35lbs
    2
    8reps
    35lbs
    3
    8reps
    35lbs
  • 11. Dumbbell Back Fly

    Dumbbell Back Fly demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    1,248,270
    Shoulders Strength
    97 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells
    Photo of Incline Bench
    Incline Bench

    The Dumbbell Back Fly targets the back of your shoulders while providing stability from an incline bench. This exercise helps strengthen your posterior deltoid by isolating the muscle effectively.

    How to do it

    1. Grab a pair of dumbbells.
    2. Lie chest-down on an incline bench with your knees slightly bent.
    3. Hold the dumbbells in front of your shoulders, palms facing forward.
    4. Keep your elbows slightly bent and back straight.
    5. Lift the dumbbells out to the sides until shoulder height, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
    6. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position slowly.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    17.5lbs
  • 12. Barbell Shoulder Press

    Barbell Shoulder Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    3,319,013
    Shoulders Strength
    96 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells

    The Barbell Shoulder Press is a strength exercise that mainly works your shoulder muscles. It helps improve your ability to lift weight overhead with stability and strength.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with the barbell at shoulder height and grab it with your hands shoulder-width apart.
    2. Bend your knees slightly and lower yourself to place the bar on your upper chest.
    3. Position your elbows under the bar so your forearms are straight up and palms face forward.
    4. Lift the barbell straight up until your arms are fully extended, keeping it aligned with your ears.
    5. Lower the barbell back to your chest to repeat the exercise.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    50lbs
    2
    8reps
    50lbs
    3
    8reps
    50lbs
  • 13. Cable Lateral Raise

    Cable Lateral Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    1,978,112
    Shoulders Strength
    97 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Hi-Lo Pulley Cable
    Hi-Lo Pulley Cable

    The Cable Lateral Raise is a shoulder exercise that targets the middle deltoid muscle. Using a cable machine allows for better control and can help identify strength differences between your left and right sides.

    How to do it

    1. Adjust the pulley to the lowest position and attach a handle.
    2. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, facing the pulley with your left side.
    3. Grab the handle with your right hand, keep your palm facing in.
    4. Tighten your core to maintain a straight back.
    5. With a slightly bent elbow, raise the handle to shoulder height while rotating it slightly upwards.
    6. Lower the handle back to the starting position and repeat on the other side.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    12.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    12.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    12.5lbs
  • 14. Dumbbell Front Raise

    Dumbbell Front Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    5,823,163
    Shoulders Strength
    98 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Front Raise is an exercise that strengthens the front part of your shoulders. It helps build muscle and balance strength between both sides of your body using dumbbells.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright holding a dumbbell in each hand at waist height, palms facing inward.
    2. Keep your arms slightly bent and lift the dumbbells in front of you to just above shoulder height.
    3. Lower the dumbbells back to waist height, maintaining a neutral back.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    15lbs
    2
    8reps
    15lbs
    3
    8reps
    15lbs
  • 15. Dumbbell Shoulder Press

    Dumbbell Shoulder Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    6,772,064
    Shoulders Strength
    99 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells
    Photo of Flat Bench
    Flat Bench

    The Dumbbell Shoulder Press is an exercise that focuses on strengthening the shoulders. Using dumbbells helps engage stabilizing muscles and can improve balance between both sides of the body.

    How to do it

    1. Sit on a bench with your back straight.
    2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, just outside shoulder-width, palms facing forward.
    3. Bend your elbows and keep them close to your sides.
    4. Press the dumbbells overhead until your arms are fully extended, keeping your wrists straight.
    5. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    30lbs
    2
    8reps
    30lbs
    3
    8reps
    30lbs

Alternative Workouts

Alternative Arms Workouts

Best Arms Workouts | Fitbod Workout Generator