Back to Library

Exercise Guide

How to do kettlebell deadlift

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The kettlebell deadlift is a fundamental lower body movement that teaches proper hip hinge mechanics while strengthening the glutes, hamstrings, and core. Because the weight is centered between the feet, it is often more accessible for beginners than a barbell deadlift. It builds functional strength, improves posture, and serves as a great foundation for more complex lifting and explosive power movements.

Stats

TIER
3
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Kettlebell
TARGET MUSCLES
Hamstrings, Glutes, Quads

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Kettlebell Placement: Place one or two kettlebells on the floor in front of you, handles parallel to your feet. If using two, position them slightly narrower than shoulder-width apart.
  2. Foot Position: Stand with your feet approximately hip-width apart, toes pointing forward or slightly turned out. The kettlebell(s) should be between your feet.
  3. Hip Hinge: Push your hips back, bending at the knees slightly, and lower your torso until your chest is over the kettlebell(s). Maintain a flat back and a neutral neck position.
  4. Grip: Grasp the kettlebell handle(s) with an overhand grip. If using two kettlebells, your hands should be outside your legs.

The Lift:

  1. Initiate the Pull: Engage your lats and core, then drive through your heels to stand up, lifting the kettlebell(s) with you. Keep your back straight and the kettlebell(s) close to your body throughout the movement.
  2. Full Extension: Stand tall with your hips and knees fully extended. Avoid leaning back excessively at the top.
  3. Controlled Lowering: Hinge at your hips and lower the kettlebell(s) back down to the starting position in a controlled manner. Keep the kettlebell(s) close to your body as you descend.

Tips:

  • Focus on the Hips: Think of pushing your hips back (like you're trying to touch a wall behind you) as you lower the kettlebell(s). Drive your hips forward as you stand up.
  • Back Position: Keep your back flat or slightly arched throughout the entire movement. Avoid rounding your back.
  • Breathing: Take a deep breath before the lift, hold it during the ascent, and exhale at the top of the movement.

Common mistakes: Squatting the weight instead of hinging, rounding the back, and looking straight up instead of keeping a neutral neck.

Alternatives

Leg Curl

seated leg curl

Hamstrings
Barbell

barbell deadlift

HamstringsGlutes
Barbell

barbell romanian deadlift

HamstringsGlutes
Bench

reverse hyper on bench

HamstringsGlutes
None

good morning

Hamstrings
Resistance Band

resistance band leg curl

Hamstrings
None

sliding floor bridge curl on towel

HamstringsGlutes
Landmine

landmine romanian deadlift

HamstringsGlutes
Kettlebell

kettlebell deadlift

HamstringsGlutes+1
Barbell

dumbbell deadlift

HamstringsGlutes+1
Kettlebell

kettlebell one arm legged deadlift

HamstringsGlutes+1
Kettlebell

kettlebell suitcase deadlift

HamstringsGlutes+1
Lying Leg Curl

machine lying leg curl

Hamstrings
Dumbbell

dumbbell romanian deadlift

HamstringsGlutes
Barbell

barbell sumo deadlift

HamstringsGlutes
Barbell

barbell stiff-leg deadlift

HamstringsGlutes
Barbell

barbell sumo romanian deadlift

HamstringsGlutes