Deadlift Double (Kettlebell)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells
Category
strength

A fundamental kettlebell pulling exercise lifting two kettlebells from the ground to hip height. Develops posterior chain strength and power.

Instructions

  1. Place two kettlebells on the ground directly under your shoulders, approximately hip-width apart.
  2. Bend at your hips and knees to grasp both kettlebell handles with a neutral grip.
  3. Position your shoulders over the kettlebells and keep your chest up with a neutral spine.
  4. Take a deep breath and engage your core.
  5. Drive through your heels to stand up by extending your hips and knees simultaneously.
  6. Keep the kettlebells close to your body throughout the movement.
  7. Stand up fully, achieving a strong upright position with your hips and knees fully extended.
  8. Reverse the movement by pushing your hips back and bending your knees, maintaining a neutral spine.
  9. Lower the kettlebells back to the ground in a controlled manner.
  10. Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.

Tips

  • The kettlebell deadlift is a fundamental movement that builds strength through the entire posterior chain.
  • Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement; avoid rounding your lower back or hyperextending.
  • Initiate the movement by extending your hips and knees, not by trying to lift with your arms.
  • Keep the kettlebells close to your body to reduce stress on your lower back and improve mechanical efficiency.
  • This movement can be performed as a complete strength-building exercise or as a training tool for power development.
  • Ensure proper form and movement quality before progressing to heavier weight or higher repetitions.

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 12 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 12 kg 11 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 9 kg 8 kg

Alternatives

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

beginner strength
beginner strength

Deadlift Staggered-Stance (Trap Bar)

Learn more about deadlift staggered-stance (trap bar)
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength