Figure 8 (Kettlebell)
Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A core and coordination exercise passing a kettlebell in a figure-8 pattern around your legs to build core stability.
Instructions
- Place kettlebell between your legs and take a wider than shoulder width stance.
- Bend forward by pushing your buttocks back and keeping your back flat.
- Pick up the kettlebell with one hand and pass it to the other hand between your legs.
- The receiving hand should reach from behind the legs to grab the kettlebell.
- Move the kettlebell in a figure-8 pattern around your legs, alternating which hand passes it.
- Complete all repetitions on one side before switching direction.
Tips
- Keep your back flat and core engaged throughout the movement to prevent lumbar strain.
- Maintain a stable stance with a slight knee bend to improve mobility and control.
- Move smoothly between passes with controlled transitions to maximize core engagement.
- Increase difficulty by using heavier kettlebells or performing the exercise at a faster pace.
- This exercise improves core stability, hip mobility, and body awareness.
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 | 15 reps | 13 kg | 11 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 12 kg | 10 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 9 kg | 7 kg |
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