ExercisesKettlebell single-arm swing

Kettlebell single-arm swing

Hike one kettlebell back between your legs and snap your hips forward to float it to chest height with one hand. Let it fall back into the next hinge; the power is all hips, not arm.

StrengthKettlebellsDifficulty 3 of 3
Two-panel demonstration of the kettlebell single-arm swing, showing the start and finish positions
Start and finish positions

How to do it

Hike one kettlebell back between your legs and snap your hips forward to float it to chest height with one hand. Let it fall back into the next hinge; the power is all hips, not arm.

Muscles worked

Front
Back
  • glutesprimary
  • hamstrings
  • adductors
  • lower back
  • core

Hover a muscle to find it on the figure. Dark green is the primary mover, lighter green is supporting work.

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How many sets should you do?

That depends on your goal, your ability, and how many days you train. Answer three questions and the builder works out your sets and reps, plus a full week around them.

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Johnny Milaychev · Product manager and self-directed lifter, not a trainer or a clinician. Why that matters and where this guidance stops.
Reviewed 16 August 2026 · Exercise library v2.2