Two-Arm Kettlebell Military Press

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
kettlebells
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Two-Arm Kettlebell Military PressTwo-Arm Kettlebell Military Press

A bilateral kettlebell shoulder press that builds pressing strength, shoulder stability, and core endurance.

Instructions

  1. Clean two kettlebells to your shoulders by extending through your legs and hips as you swing them upward. Rotate your wrists so palms face forward.
  2. Stand with feet hip-width apart, core engaged, and kettlebells resting on your shoulders.
  3. Press the kettlebells up and out, extending your arms overhead.
  4. As the kettlebells pass your head, lean slightly into the weights so they finish locked out overhead.
  5. Contract your lats, glutes, and abdominals to maintain stability throughout.
  6. Lower the kettlebells back to your shoulders with control.

Tips

  • Press in a slightly forward trajectory rather than straight up.
  • Maintain a neutral spine and avoid excessive arching of your lower back.
  • Keep your core engaged for stability and control.
  • Finish with a strong lockout position with arms fully extended.

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 7 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 12 kg 7 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 9 kg 5 kg

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