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Kettlebell Swing

Difficulty: ⭐⭐ Intermediatepull

Home Setup

Use a heavy object with handle in open space

Heavy backpackWater jug with handleLaundry detergent bottle

💡 Pro tip: Ensure 6 feet of clearance in front and overhead for safety

Gym Setup

Kettlebell and open floor space

Safety: Maintain clear space around you, keep spine neutral, drive through hips not arms

💪 Muscles Worked

GlutesHamstringsErector SpinaeCoreShoulders

⭐ Why This Exercise?

Kettlebell swings build explosive hip power and cardiovascular endurance while strengthening the entire posterior chain. This ballistic movement improves metabolic conditioning, grip strength, and teaches proper hip hinge mechanics that transfer to athletic performance and daily activities.

Make It Easier

Regressions for building up strength

1. Deadlift

kettlebell + barbell + dumbbells

Builds hip hinge pattern without momentum

2. Glute Bridge

bodyweight

Teaches hip extension without complexity

3. Kettlebell Deadlift

kettlebell

Same setup without swing momentum

4. Banded Hip Hinge

resistance band

Lighter resistance to learn pattern

Make It Harder

Progressions for advanced athletes

1. Single-Arm Kettlebell Swing

kettlebell

Adds rotational stability challenge

2. American Kettlebell Swing

kettlebell

Full overhead increases range and difficulty

3. Double Kettlebell Swing

kettlebell

Increased load and coordination

4. Kettlebell Snatch

kettlebell

Advanced explosive hip hinge movement

↕️ Similar Movements

Romanian Deadlift
Same hip hinge pattern, controlled tempo
Box Jump
Similar explosive hip extension
Broad Jump
Horizontal power from hip drive
Clean
Similar explosive pull pattern
Cable Pull-Through
Same movement with constant tension

Form Checklist

Hinge at hips not squat
Drive through heels
Snap hips forward explosively
Arms are ropes, hips do the work
Chest up, shoulders packed
Float the kettlebell to shoulder height

Common Mistakes

  • Squatting instead of hinging
  • Using arms to lift instead of hips
  • Rounding lower back
  • Overextending at top
  • Looking up instead of neutral neck
  • Letting kettlebell drop too low

📈 When to Progress

When you can do 20 reps with explosive hip snap and perfect form for 3 sets without lower back fatigue