Is this a form problem?

[erica34]

Whenever I do bicep curls with a barbell, I feel it more in the exact center of my back than I do in my biceps. Is this a form problem, or is this exercise supposed to work my back as well, and my back muscles just happen to be weaker than my biceps? I wonder about that because, whenever I do planks, my shoulders are toasted long, long before my abs and back are. Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Erica

 

[Aquajock]

Hi, Erica! It could be that at this time you're trying to lift just a bit more weightload than is appropriate for your biceps (and wrist/forearm strength) and you're compensating by putting your back into it, literally, to help hike the weight up. This is a common tendency, especially when you are doing your biceps curls standing.

I don't believe you should be feeling a biceps curl more in your back than in the biceps. May I suggest that, for a little while at least, either lighten your load on your barbell, or modify your biceps program by doing seated biceps curls with dumbbells (whose combined weight can equal the total weight of your barbell). That might be a real eye-opener - to see how much your lower back is contributing to the lift! Also, as another alternative, try doing alternating biceps curls with dumbbells rather than simultaneous curls with both arms, standing or sitting - this can limit the back contribution as well.

Re planks - ah, one of my favorites! The anterior delts are working hard to keep you in the elevated position, and because they are much smaller than your core muscles they will probably fatigue more quickly. Keep up with your anterior delt strengthening AND your triceps strengthening!

Hope this helps -

Annette