Alternating Kettlebell Press
How to do the Alternating Kettlebell Press
- 1
Clean two kettlebells to your shoulders. Clean the kettlebells to your shoulders by extending through the legs and hips as you pull the kettlebells towards your shoulders. Rotate your wrists as you do so.
- 2
Press one directly overhead by extending through the elbow, turning it so the palm faces forward while holding the other kettlebell stationary .
- 3
Lower the pressed kettlebell to the starting position and immediately press with your other arm.
How to program the Alternating Kettlebell Press
Sets and reps
As a compound movement, the Alternating Kettlebell Press responds well to heavier loading. For strength, work in the 3–5 sets of 4–8 reps range with 2–3 minutes of rest between sets. For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 90 seconds of rest is the classic hypertrophy zone. Place it early in your session, when you're freshest, and leave 1–3 reps in reserve on most sets.
Progression
The Alternating Kettlebell Press is rated intermediate. Earn the right to progress: only add load when every rep of every set moves with consistent technique. Video your sets or use a mirror to check positions, and use double progression (add reps to the top of your range, then add load and reset) rather than jumping weight.
Secondary muscles worked
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Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Alternating Kettlebell Press work?
The Alternating Kettlebell Press primarily targets the Shoulders. It also recruits the Triceps as supporting muscles.
What equipment do I need for the Alternating Kettlebell Press?
You need Kettlebells. Difficulty level: Intermediate.
How many sets and reps of the Alternating Kettlebell Press should I do?
For strength, do 3–5 sets of 4–8 reps with 2–3 minutes rest. For muscle growth, do 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with about 90 seconds rest.
