Kettlebell Overhead Press
Muscles worked
- Anterior Deltoid
- Lateral Deltoid
- Triceps Brachii
- Serratus Anterior
- Trapezius Upper Fibers
- External Oblique
- CategoryPush
- Default target4 sets × 5–8 reps per side
- EquipmentKettlebell
- Movement patternVertical Push
- Training stylesStrength, Hypertrophy
- LevelBeginner-friendly
Technique
Setup
Clean one kettlebell, or lift it with both hands, into the rack position so it rests on the back of your forearm against your chest, wrist straight and elbow tucked. Stand with feet hip-width, glutes squeezed and core braced.
Movement
Press the bell straight up, keeping your forearm vertical, until your arm locks out with your biceps beside your ear. Lower it under control back to the rack. Finish the set, then switch sides.
Form Tip
Squeeze the handle and the glute on the pressing side; leaning away from the bell to finish a rep shifts the load into your lower back.
Increase Difficulty
Use a heavier bell, or press from the bottoms-up position for extra shoulder stability.
Decrease Difficulty
Use a lighter bell, or press from half-kneeling so your hips and ribs stay put.