sit or stand?

[jeannie39]

Hi guys,

One quick question- Is there any advantage to doing db curls (etc...) seated? I do most db work standing but I see a lot of people doing these moves seated and was wondering if it was just easier on the back or they know something I don't. All info appreciated. thanks

[jondy]

Which ever one you are more comfortable with. Seated can be more strict if done correctly but I still see people swinging the weight up from that position. You may have to drop the weight for seated, also. Whatever works.

[LiftGirl]

I don't think there's any advantage to doing them seated. I think people just like to sit down

[Doc2029]

Well it depends how you are lifting and how good your form is. Some people cannot stay still enough standing they rock and flap too much so sitting forces them to isolate the arm a little better. I personally have found seated curls a little harder because you can't cheat and use your back for momentum. Though no matter how you do them mind the negitives. I see so many people lift the weight and just let it drop down instead of controling the weight back to the start position.

[ajarvis]

I personally try to do no exercises where I'm seated. I want to utilize all my time in the gym, and as many muscles as possible. When standing and doing say bicep curls you have to utilize your core for stability, and concentrate on form so that you're not swinging the weight. If you are - lower the weight.

[Todd]

Seated anything makes it more strict so usually less weight has to be used compared to doing the same thing standing.

Standing allows for heavier weight to be used.

Both ways have their pros/cons and good use within the weight room.

Standing allows for more weight to be used via small cheating in your form. Not talking about swinging the whole body rediculously either just to lift more weight, but rather I'm talking small amounts of natural body english which can enable one to lift more weight while still being safe about it. Small amounts of cheating are ok and do serve a purpose depending on what your goals are.

On the other hand, doing exercises seated equates to being more strict with certain movements, and can allow one to REALLY feel the intended muscle group working quite a bit better.

Seated movements can also come in handy if you've got an injury to your lower back...where you NEED to take aggravating it out of the equation. Sitting down to do your exercise can allow for this, while still making sure you get a thorough workout.

Sometimes it's just nice to switch things up and do seated exercises from time to time, or vice versa.