Turkish Get Up (Dumbbell)
A complex full-body movement where an athlete transitions from lying down to standing while holding a dumbbell overhead, building stability, mobility, and total body strength.
Instructions
- Lie on your back with your right leg straight and left leg bent with foot flat on the floor.
- Hold a dumbbell in your right hand and press it to full extension directly above your chest.
- Roll onto your left elbow while keeping the dumbbell pressed overhead, then push yourself up to your left hand.
- Drive through your left foot and right hand to come up onto your left knee (half-kneeling position).
- Continue rising to a standing position, passing the dumbbell hand above the vertical plane.
- Stand upright with the dumbbell overhead and both feet on the ground.
- Reverse the movement by slowly descending in a controlled manner.
- Return to the starting lying position and complete repetitions on one side before switching.
Tips
- This movement emphasizes stability and body awareness—focus on controlled, deliberate motion
- The eyes should maintain focus on the dumbbell throughout the entire movement
- Move slowly and with control, especially when learning; speed will come with practice
- Proper hip and shoulder mobility is essential—work on mobility if the movement feels restricted
- This movement builds exceptional shoulder stability and core strength
- Always perform on both sides equally to ensure balanced development
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 | 15 reps | 9 kg | 5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 8 kg | 4 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 6 kg | 3 kg |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
360 (Steel Mace)
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Pike (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
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beginner strength