Long head of biceps brachii

Arms

Origin: Supraglenoid tubercle of the scapula
Insertion: Radial tuberosity and bicipital aponeurosis
Action: Flexes the elbow and supinates the forearm; assists shoulder flexion
Nerve supply: Musculocutaneous nerve (C5–C6)

The outer head of the biceps. Its long tendon runs inside the shoulder joint and down the groove at the top of the humerus, so unlike the elbow-only flexors it also acts at the shoulder.

Exercises listed for the biceps brachii as a whole

Long head of biceps brachii anatomy page →

Exercises listed for the biceps brachii as a whole

Biceps curl — main mover
Dumbbell fly — assists
Pull-up — assists
Chin-up — assists
Lat pulldown — assists
Bent-over barbell row — assists
Seated cable row — assists
Hammer curl — assists

Other parts of the biceps brachii

Short head of biceps brachii

Sources

Last updated 18 October 2026. For education only — not medical advice, and not reviewed by a clinician.