What is the muscle behind your bicep called?
Have you ever wondered about the muscle that lies behind your bicep? While the bicep is the prominent muscle on the front of your upper arm, there is another muscle that plays a crucial role in arm movement and stability. This muscle is known as the brachialis.
The brachialis is a superficial muscle located in the anterior compartment of the arm. It is situated between the bicep brachii muscle, which is the larger muscle on the front of the arm, and the humerus bone. The brachialis muscle originates from the anterior surface of the humerus and inserts into the coronoid process of the ulna bone in the forearm. Its primary function is to flex the elbow joint, allowing you to bend your arm.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the brachialis muscle, discussing its anatomy, function, and how it contributes to overall arm strength and movement. We will also explore some exercises that target this muscle to help you strengthen and tone your arms. So, let’s get started!
Anatomy of the Brachialis Muscle
The brachialis muscle is a thick, cylindrical muscle that runs vertically along the anterior compartment of the arm. It is divided into two parts: the superficial and deep portions. The superficial portion is the larger part and is responsible for most of the muscle’s mass. The deep portion is smaller and lies beneath the superficial portion.
The brachialis muscle is innervated by the musculocutaneous nerve, which originates from the brachial plexus. This nerve provides the necessary signals for the muscle to contract and perform its function.
The brachialis muscle is also supplied by blood vessels, including the brachial artery and its branches. These blood vessels ensure that the muscle receives adequate oxygen and nutrients to function optimally.
Function of the Brachialis Muscle
The primary function of the brachialis muscle is to flex the elbow joint. This action is essential for everyday activities such as lifting objects, reaching, and throwing. The brachialis muscle works in conjunction with the bicep brachii muscle to produce a strong and coordinated elbow flexion.
In addition to its role in elbow flexion, the brachialis muscle also contributes to the stability of the elbow joint. It helps to prevent excessive movement and provides a solid foundation for the bicep brachii muscle to exert its force.
The brachialis muscle also plays a role in the supination of the forearm. When you turn your palm up, the brachialis muscle contracts to assist in this movement.
Exercises to Strengthen the Brachialis Muscle
To strengthen and tone the brachialis muscle, it is important to perform exercises that target this specific muscle group. Here are some effective exercises:
1. Dumbbell Curls: Hold a pair of dumbbells at shoulder height with your palms facing forward. Curl the dumbbells up towards your shoulders, bending your elbows, and then lower them back down.
2. Hammer Curls: Similar to dumbbell curls, but with the palms facing each other. This variation emphasizes the brachialis muscle more than the bicep brachii.
3. Cable Curls: Attach a rope attachment to a cable machine and stand with your arms extended in front of you. Curl the rope towards your shoulders, bending your elbows, and then lower it back down.
4. Barbell Curls: Use a barbell and perform the same movement as with dumbbell curls.
Remember to maintain proper form and technique while performing these exercises to avoid injury and maximize the benefits to your brachialis muscle.
In conclusion, the muscle behind your bicep is called the brachialis. This important muscle plays a crucial role in arm movement, stability, and overall strength. By understanding its anatomy, function, and incorporating targeted exercises into your workout routine, you can effectively strengthen and tone your brachialis muscle.
