Step Up With Press (Kettlebell)
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A combination movement that pairs a step-up with an overhead press, combining lower body and upper body strength into one integrated exercise.
Instructions
- Stand facing an elevated platform (bench, box, or step) approximately knee height.
- Hold a kettlebell at shoulder height with the bell resting against your shoulder.
- Place your right foot on the elevated platform.
- Drive through your right heel to step up onto the platform.
- As you stand up on the platform, press the kettlebell overhead by extending your arm fully.
- Lock out the kettlebell at the top while maintaining balance on the platform.
- Lower the kettlebell back to shoulder height as you step backward with your left foot.
- Return to the starting position before repeating.
- Complete all repetitions on one leg before switching to the opposite side.
Tips
- Coordinate the stepping movement with the pressing motion; they should be synchronized.
- Perform the press as you complete the step-up, using your body’s upward momentum to assist the press.
- Maintain balance on the platform throughout the pressing phase.
- Keep your core engaged to maintain stability during both the stepping and pressing movements.
- Move in a controlled manner; avoid rushing the stepping or pressing phases.
- This exercise efficiently combines lower and upper body training in a single movement.
- Ensure the platform is sturdy and stable before beginning.
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 | 9 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps | 12 kg | 8 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps | 9 kg | 6 kg |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
Clean And Squat (Kettlebell)
Learn more about clean and squat (kettlebell) intermediate strength
Overhead Lunge (Kettlebell)
Learn more about overhead lunge (kettlebell) intermediate strength
Overhead Squat (Kettlebell)
Learn more about overhead squat (kettlebell) intermediate strength
Overhead Squat (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
Learn more about overhead squat (trx / suspension trainer) expert strength
Squat To Press (Kettlebell)
Learn more about squat to press (kettlebell) intermediate strength
Squat to Y Fly (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
Learn more about squat to y fly (trx / suspension trainer) intermediate strength
Thruster (Steel Mace)
Learn more about thruster (steel mace) expert strength