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Kettlebell Deadlift

IntermediateStrengthTier T2
Kettlebell Deadlift

A deadlift using a kettlebell between your feet. Good for learning the deadlift pattern with a neutral grip.

Targets: Thoracic Spine, Lumbar Spine
Muscles: Hamstrings, Gluteus Maximus

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

kettlebells

Home Options

  • kettlebell

No equipment? Try: Dumbbell, Heavy bag

Dosage

3

Sets

10

Reps / Time

90 sec

Rest

2 seconds up, 2 seconds down

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Place kettlebell between your feet
  • Feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider
  • Toes slightly pointed out
  • Stand directly over the kettlebell
  1. Kettlebell Deadlift - Step 1 of 7: Push hips back and bend knees to reach handle

    Step 1 of 7

    Push hips back and bend knees to reach handle

  2. Kettlebell Deadlift - Step 2 of 7: Grip handle with both hands

    Step 2 of 7

    Grip handle with both hands

  3. Kettlebell Deadlift - Step 3 of 7: Flatten your back, engage core

    Step 3 of 7

    Flatten your back, engage core

  4. Kettlebell Deadlift - Step 4 of 7: Push through feet and drive hips forward

    Step 4 of 7

    Push through feet and drive hips forward

  5. Kettlebell Deadlift - Step 5 of 7: Stand tall and squeeze glutes at top

    Step 5 of 7

    Stand tall and squeeze glutes at top

  6. Kettlebell Deadlift - Step 6 of 7: Hinge back to lower kettlebell to floor

    Step 6 of 7

    Hinge back to lower kettlebell to floor

  7. Kettlebell Deadlift - Step 7 of 7: Maintain flat back throughout

    Step 7 of 7

    Maintain flat back throughout

Breathing

  • Inhale before lifting
  • Exhale at top
  • Inhale before lowering

Form Cues

  • Push floor away with your feet
  • Keep chest up
  • Lock out hips at top
  • Control the descent

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Rounding lower back
  • Pulling with arms instead of legs/hips
  • Looking up
  • Jerky movement

Safety Information

Master hip hinge before adding load. Keep back flat.

Progressions

Increase weight, progress to barbell deadlift

Regressions

Use lighter weight, elevate kettlebell on blocks