Bottoms Up Squat (Kettlebell)
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A squat variation where the kettlebell is held upside down at chest height, demanding shoulder stability and core engagement during lower body movement.
Instructions
- Stand with feet hip-width to shoulder-width apart and clean a kettlebell to chest height with the bell facing downward.
- Keep your wrist neutral and elbows bent at approximately 90 degrees.
- Maintain an upright torso and engaged core as you descend into a squat.
- Lower your hips until your thighs are roughly parallel to the ground.
- Drive through your heels to return to standing position.
- Maintain constant control of the inverted kettlebell throughout the movement.
Tips
- Start with a lighter kettlebell to develop stability and control.
- Focus on keeping your chest up and core tight throughout the movement.
- Maintain constant control of the inverted kettlebell; do not allow it to move excessively.
- Lower slowly and with control to maximize core and shoulder engagement.
- Breathe in as you descend and out as you drive back up.
- This exercise is excellent for developing core stability and shoulder control.
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 | 9 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps | 12 kg | 8 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps | 9 kg | 6 kg |
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