One-Arm Kettlebell Clean
Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A dynamic kettlebell lift that explosively pulls the weight from the ground to shoulder height, engaging the entire posterior chain and shoulders.
Instructions
- Place a kettlebell between your feet. Bend down to grab the kettlebell handle while pushing your hips back and keeping your eyes looking forward.
- Drive through your legs and hips to explosively pull the kettlebell upward.
- As the kettlebell rises, rotate your wrist so your palm faces forward and the kettlebell sits on your shoulder.
- Stabilize the weight at shoulder height with a packed shoulder.
- Lower the kettlebell back to the floor with control.
- Reset your position and repeat for the desired repetitions.
- Switch arms and complete the set.
Tips
- Initiate the movement from your hips, not your arms
- Keep your chest up and core tight throughout the lift
- Ensure the kettlebell lands softly on your shoulder to reduce impact
- Maintain a neutral spine and avoid excessive arching
- Use your legs to generate power, not your arms
- Keep the kettlebell close to your body during the upward pull
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 |
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