Double Kettlebell Squat

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

A squat variation performed while holding two kettlebells at shoulder height.

Instructions

  1. Stand with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, holding kettlebells at shoulder height.
  2. Keep your chest upright and core engaged throughout the movement.
  3. Initiate the movement by breaking at the hips and knees simultaneously, descending into a squat.
  4. Descend until your thighs are parallel to the ground or deeper if mobility allows.
  5. Drive through your heels to extend your hips and knees, returning to the starting position.

Tips

  • Keep your weight distributed evenly across your entire foot, avoiding forward lean.
  • Maintain an upright torso and neutral spine throughout the squat.
  • Ensure your knees track over your toes and do not cave inward.
  • Take a deep breath at the top, hold it during the descent, and exhale as you ascend.

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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