Overhead Carry (Kettlebell)
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Secondary Muscles
A loaded carry exercise where a kettlebell is held overhead while walking, building shoulder stability, core strength, and unilateral pressing endurance.
Instructions
- Press a kettlebell overhead with one arm, achieving a stable locked-out position.
- Keep your core braced and your shoulders packed with slight retraction.
- Maintain an upright posture without leaning to either side.
- Begin walking forward at a steady pace while maintaining the overhead position.
- Keep the kettlebell stable without excessive movement or shifting.
- Walk for the prescribed distance or time, then lower the kettlebell and repeat on the other side.
Tips
- Press the kettlebell directly overhead rather than slightly forward to maintain balance and stability.
- Brace your core to prevent excess lower back extension and maintain posture.
- Maintain stability in the overhead position, avoiding unnecessary swaying or shifting.
- Increase difficulty by using heavier kettlebells, extending distance, or walking on inclines.
- This exercise builds shoulder stability, overhead strength, and unilateral core stability.
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 | Distance | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 300 m | 13 kg | 7 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 700 m | 12 kg | 7 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 1.3 km | 9 kg | 5 kg |
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