Barbell Curl – Straight Bar vs Preacher Curl – EZ Bar

Side-by-side comparison of Barbell Curl – Straight Bar and Preacher Curl – EZ Bar. See which exercise suits your training goals, equipment, and fitness level.

Preacher Curl – EZ Bar

Attribute	Barbell Curl – Straight Bar	Preacher Curl – EZ Bar
Primary Muscle	Biceps	Biceps
Secondary Muscles	Forearms	Forearms
Equipment	Short bar	EZ Bar, Preacher
MET Value	4	3.5
Calories (30 min, 70 kg)	≈ 140 cal	≈ 123 cal
Video Quality	4K	4K
Male & Female	Yes	Yes
Multiple Angles	Yes	Yes

When to choose Barbell Curl – Straight Bar

Choose Barbell Curl – Straight Bar when you have access to Short bar and want a structured exercise for Biceps. With a higher MET value (4 vs 3.5), Barbell Curl – Straight Bar burns more calories per minute.

Full Barbell Curl – Straight Bar guide →

When to choose Preacher Curl – EZ Bar

Choose Preacher Curl – EZ Bar when you have access to EZ Bar, Preacher and want a structured exercise for Biceps. Preacher Curl – EZ Bar has a lower MET value (3.5), more accessible for beginners or recovery sessions.

Full Preacher Curl – EZ Bar guide →

The Verdict

Both Barbell Curl – Straight Bar and Preacher Curl – EZ Bar effectively target Biceps. They differ in equipment: Barbell Curl – Straight Bar uses short bar, while Preacher Curl – EZ Bar uses ez bar, preacher. The best choice depends on your goals, equipment, and program. Many coaches include both for complete development..

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Barbell Curl – Straight Bar better than Preacher Curl – EZ Bar?

Neither is universally better. Barbell Curl – Straight Bar (MET 4) and Preacher Curl – EZ Bar (MET 3.5) serve different purposes. Barbell Curl – Straight Bar uses short bar and targets Biceps, while Preacher Curl – EZ Bar uses ez bar, preacher and targets Biceps. Choose based on your goals and available equipment.

Can I replace Barbell Curl – Straight Bar with Preacher Curl – EZ Bar?

Yes, both target Biceps, making them reasonable substitutes. Consider the equipment requirements (Short bar vs EZ Bar, Preacher) and consult a qualified coach before making changes to your program.

Which burns more calories, Barbell Curl – Straight Bar or Preacher Curl – EZ Bar?

Barbell Curl – Straight Bar burns approximately 140 cal/30 min vs 123 cal/30 min for Preacher Curl – EZ Bar (based on a 70 kg person).

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