Push Up (Kettlebell)
Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A variation of the standard push-up performed with your hands on kettlebell handles, providing instability and increased core engagement.
Instructions
- Place two kettlebells on the ground parallel to each other, handles facing forward.
- Position yourself in a high plank with your hands gripping the kettlebell handles, shoulders directly over your hands.
- Your body should form a straight line from head to heels, with your core engaged.
- Lower your body by bending your elbows, bringing your chest toward the kettlebells while maintaining a straight body alignment.
- Descend until your chest nearly touches the height of the kettlebell handles.
- Drive through your hands and extend your elbows to push yourself back to the starting position.
- Complete all repetitions with control and proper form.
Tips
- Keep your core braced throughout the entire movement to prevent your hips from sagging.
- The kettlebell handles create instability, increasing the demand on stabilizer muscles.
- Maintain a neutral spine position; avoid letting your lower back sag or hips pike upward.
- Lower yourself in a controlled manner and press back up explosively.
- If the kettlebell variation is too challenging, perform standard push-ups first to build strength.
- Start with two kettlebells to balance the load evenly across your body.
- This variation improves shoulder stability and grip strength compared to standard push-ups.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps |
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