Bench Press (Kettlebell)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

A pressing exercise performed lying on a bench with kettlebells, providing a free-weight alternative to barbells with greater range of motion.

Instructions

  1. Lie flat on a bench with feet firmly planted on the floor.
  2. Hold a kettlebell in each hand at chest height with elbows bent at approximately 45 degrees.
  3. Press the kettlebells upward, fully extending your arms without locking elbows.
  4. Lower the kettlebells in a controlled manner back to chest height.
  5. Keep your shoulder blades retracted and your chest engaged throughout.
  6. Maintain a stable position on the bench with your feet driving into the floor.

Tips

  • Keep your shoulder blades packed against the bench for safety and stability.
  • Lower the kettlebells to a comfortable range of motion, typically when elbows are at or slightly below shoulder height.
  • Maintain even pressure between both kettlebells to prevent imbalances.
  • Breathe in during the lowering phase and out during the press.
  • Control the negative portion of the lift to maximize muscle engagement.
  • Perform on a stable, padded bench to ensure proper support.

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 7 reps 13 kg 7 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 12 kg 7 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 9 kg 5 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

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Bench Press with Neutral Grip (Dumbbell)

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Chest Press (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Chest Press Single Leg (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Extended Range One-Arm Kettlebell Floor Press

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Hinge to Chest Press (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Incline Bench Press - Medium Grip (Barbell)

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Incline Bench Press (Smith Machine)

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Low Chest Press (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Push-Ups With Feet On An Exercise Ball

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Standing Decline Chest Press (Cable)

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Wide-Grip Decline Barbell Bench Press

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