Illustrated guide to the Kettlebell One Arm Push Press exercise

Kettlebell One Arm Push Press

Single-kettlebell push press — leg-driven launch with strict-press finish, exposes trunk anti-lateral-flexion.

Level: Intermediate

Primary: Shoulder

Secondary: Triceps

Movement: Compound

Tags: Explosive Push Unilateral

Type: Anaerobic Intervals (HIIT / Bootcamp / Circuit) Strength (Weight Lifting)

Equipment: Kettlebell

Sports: Football Rugby Track and Field

Target muscles

The quads and glutes drive the launch. The deltoid and triceps finish the press. The trunk braces continuously against the unilateral overhead load.

How to perform

Setup

Stand with one kettlebell in the front rack. Feet hip-width.

Execution

Dip straight down. Reverse explosively, driving the kettlebell up. The arm continues the press to full lockout overhead. Lower back to the rack. Switch sides each set.

Common mistakes

  • Hip break during dip.
  • Going too deep on dip.
  • Trunk leaning.
  • Soft trunk.
  • Treating push-press loads as strict-press loads.

Progressions and regressions

Regress to single-arm strict press. To progress, work the push jerk.

Programming notes

Excellent unilateral pressing. 3-4 sets of 4-6 per side, twice a week.

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