Deadlift Double (Kettlebell)
Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A fundamental kettlebell pulling exercise lifting two kettlebells from the ground to hip height. Develops posterior chain strength and power.
Instructions
- Place two kettlebells on the ground directly under your shoulders, approximately hip-width apart.
- Bend at your hips and knees to grasp both kettlebell handles with a neutral grip.
- Position your shoulders over the kettlebells and keep your chest up with a neutral spine.
- Take a deep breath and engage your core.
- Drive through your heels to stand up by extending your hips and knees simultaneously.
- Keep the kettlebells close to your body throughout the movement.
- Stand up fully, achieving a strong upright position with your hips and knees fully extended.
- Reverse the movement by pushing your hips back and bending your knees, maintaining a neutral spine.
- Lower the kettlebells back to the ground in a controlled manner.
- 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.
Deadlift (Dumbbell)
Learn more about deadlift (dumbbell) beginner strength
beginner strength
Deadlift Staggered-Stance (Trap Bar)
Learn more about deadlift staggered-stance (trap bar) intermediate strength
Stiff-Legged Deadlift (Cable)
Learn more about stiff-legged deadlift (cable) intermediate strength
Stiff-Legged Deadlift (Trap Bar)
Learn more about stiff-legged deadlift (trap bar) intermediate strength