Video: Biceps curl with dumbbell. Edward R. Laskowski, M.D: The biceps curl is an exercise you can do with dumbbells to build strength in your upper arm. Specifically, the biceps curl works the muscles in the front of the upper arm.Nicole L. Campbell: To do a biceps curl with a dumbbell, hold a dumbbell with your palm facing upward. Slowly curl the weight up by bending your elbow, keeping your elbow close to your body.Then slowly lower the weight to the starting position. You'll feel tension in the muscles in the front of your upper arm.icole L. Campbell: To do a biceps curl with a dumbbell, hold a dumbbell with your palm facing upward. Slowly curl the weight up by bending your elbow, keeping your elbow close to your body. Then slowly lower the weight to the starting position.