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Exercise Library/Glutes/Kettlebell/Kettlebell Clean & Press
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Kettlebell Clean & Press

KBStrength

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The Kettlebell Clean & Press is a dynamic compound strength exercise that involves explosively cleaning the kettlebell from the ground to the rack position at the shoulder before pressing it overhead. Its primary purpose is to build full-body power, explosive strength, and shoulder stability. It mainly targets the glutes, shoulders, and back, with secondary engagement of the core, quads, and traps, making it ideal for athletes, CrossFit enthusiasts, and those seeking functional fitness gains using just a single kettlebell.

How to Perform Kettlebell Clean & Press

  1. 1Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, kettlebell on the floor between your feet, toes pointed slightly out.
  2. 2Squat down, grip the kettlebell handle with one hand (overhand), keep chest up and back flat.
  3. 3Engage core, drive through heels to explosively extend hips and knees, shrug shoulder, pulling kettlebell up along body.
  4. 4Inhale during the clean pull; as kettlebell reaches chest height, quickly rotate wrist to rack it on forearm (elbow tucked in).
  5. 5Exhale as you press the kettlebell overhead from rack position, fully extending arm while keeping core tight.
  6. 6Lower the kettlebell back to rack position with control (inhale), then reverse the clean to floor by hinging at hips.
  7. 7Switch sides after each rep or set.
  8. 8Key form tips: Keep kettlebell close to body throughout; avoid arm-dominant pulling—use hip snap; maintain neutral spine, don't arch back on press. Common mistakes: Rounding shoulders, loose core, overextending neck.

Muscles Worked

Front

Back

Primary
Secondary
Primary
GlutesShouldersBack
Secondary
TricepsPosterior thighsQuadsAbsForearms

Equipment Required

Kettlebell

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Quick answers

What muscles does Kettlebell Clean & Press work?
Kettlebell Clean & Press primarily targets the Glutes, Shoulders, Back. Secondary muscles worked include the Triceps, Posterior thighs, Quads, Abs, Forearms.
What equipment do I need for Kettlebell Clean & Press?
Kettlebell Clean & Press requires Kettlebell. Make sure to select an appropriate weight for your fitness level.
How do I perform Kettlebell Clean & Press correctly?
Kettlebell Clean & Press is performed in 8 steps. Start by: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, kettlebell on the floor between your feet, toes pointed slightly out. See the full step-by-step instructions above for complete form guidance.
What type of exercise is Kettlebell Clean & Press?
Kettlebell Clean & Press is a strength training exercise designed to build muscle and increase force production. It primarily works the Glutes, Shoulders, Back.

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