Single Leg Swing (Kettlebell)
Level
expert
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A dynamic hip-hinge movement performed while standing on a single leg, combining the kettlebell swing's explosive power with advanced balance demands.
Instructions
- Stand on one leg with your supporting leg slightly bent at the knee, foot flat on the ground.
- Hold a kettlebell with both hands in front of your body.
- Allow the kettlebell to hang at arm’s length as you hinge at the hip, loading your posterior chain.
- Explosively drive your hips forward while maintaining the single-leg stance.
- The explosive hip extension propels the kettlebell upward to approximately chest height.
- Maintain your single-leg balance throughout the swinging motion.
- Allow the kettlebell to swing back down as you hinge at the hip again, loading the posterior chain.
- Continue for the desired number of repetitions on one leg before switching.
Tips
- This is an advanced variation requiring significant balance and posterior chain strength.
- Maintain an upright posture throughout; avoid leaning or compensating with your torso.
- The explosive power comes from your hip extension, not from your arms.
- Keep your core engaged to maintain balance on one leg during the dynamic movement.
- Start with a lighter kettlebell to master the balance demands before using heavier weights.
- Your supporting leg should remain slightly bent throughout to absorb forces and maintain stability.
- This variation develops explosive posterior chain power, single-leg stability, and dynamic balance.
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 |