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

A kettlebell clean variation where the weight flips to land in the open palm, developing forearms strength, wrist stability, and explosive power from the ground.
Instructions
- Place one kettlebell between your feet. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Grab the handle and raise the kettlebell rapidly, allowing it to flip so the ball of the kettlebell lands in the palm of your hand.
- Stabilize the weight in your open palm at chest/shoulder height.
- Throw the kettlebell out in front of you and catch the handle with one hand.
- Take the kettlebell to the floor and reset.
- Repeat for the desired repetitions, then switch arms to work both sides equally.
Tips
- This exercise requires careful progression to avoid dropping the weight
- Start with lighter weights to develop the technique
- Use an explosive upward drive from the ground
- Time the wrist rotation to land cleanly in your palm
- Keep your core engaged throughout
- Complete all repetitions on one side before switching
- This advanced variation builds exceptional grip and wrist strength
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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