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

  1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in front of your chest with both hands.
  2. Raise the kettlebell to shoulder height, keeping your elbows bent.
  3. Move the kettlebell around your body in a circular motion, keeping it at approximately shoulder height.
  4. Circle around your right side first, moving the kettlebell out and back in a wide arc.
  5. Complete the full circle and reverse direction to circle around your left side.
  6. 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