Good Morning (Kettlebell)
Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A posterior chain exercise performed by hinging forward from the hips while holding a kettlebell, strengthening the lower back, hamstrings, and spinal erectors.
Instructions
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell vertically against your chest or clasped behind your head.
- Maintain a neutral spine and slight knee bend throughout the movement.
- Initiate the movement by hinging at the hips, pushing your buttocks backward.
- Lower your torso forward while keeping your back straight until you reach approximately 90 degrees.
- Maintain tension in your hamstrings and lower back throughout the descent.
- Drive your hips forward to return to standing, extending through your posterior chain.
Tips
- Keep your spine neutral throughout to prevent rounding and protect your lower back.
- Push your hips back initiating the movement, rather than bending at the waist.
- Maintain a slight knee bend to reduce hamstring tightness and improve comfort.
- Focus on the strong contraction of your posterior chain as you return to standing.
- Start light and progress conservatively as lower back loading requires careful progression.
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 |