Around The World (Kettlebell)
Level
intermediate
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A shoulder mobility and stability drill where you move a kettlebell in circles around your body at shoulder height, engaging rotator cuff and stabilizer muscles.
Instructions
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in front of your chest with both hands.
- Raise the kettlebell to shoulder height, keeping your elbows bent.
- Move the kettlebell around your body in a circular motion, keeping it at approximately shoulder height.
- Circle around your right side first, moving the kettlebell out and back in a wide arc.
- Complete the full circle and reverse direction to circle around your left side.
- Maintain control throughout and keep your core engaged.
Tips
- Start with a light kettlebell to focus on smooth, controlled movement.
- Keep your elbows bent and raised throughout the movement.
- Move slowly and deliberately to maximize shoulder stability engagement.
- Maintain an upright posture with minimal trunk rotation.
- Breathe steadily throughout the movement without holding your breath.
- This drill is excellent for shoulder mobility and injury prevention.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 9 reps | 13 kg | 7 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps | 12 kg | 7 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps | 9 kg | 5 kg |