Kettlebell Alternating Row exercise demonstration image

Video Coming Soon

We're working on adding video demonstrations for this exercise.

Kettlebell Alternating Row

Intermediate
Home Friendly

Alternating single-arm kettlebell rows from a bent-over hinge position targeting lats, rhomboids, and traps to build upper back strength, improve posture, and enhance core stability.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Lats, Traps

Secondary Muscles

Biceps, Lower Back, Forearms, Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Conditioning

Training Style

Functional Training
Weightlifting

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Lats

9/10

Teres Major

Traps

8/10

Upper Traps, Mid Traps

Shoulders

6/10

Rear Delts

Biceps

5/10

Long Head

Lower Back

4/10

Erector Spinae

Forearms

3/10

Flexors

Abs

3/10

Transverse Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds • Adjust based on intensity and goals.

How to Perform

Stand feet shoulder-width, hinge at hips to grasp two kettlebells on floor, back flat, core braced, arms extended.

  1. Pull right kettlebell to ribcage by driving elbow back and retracting shoulder blade.
  2. Squeeze back at top, hold briefly.
  3. Lower right kettlebell controlled while pulling left kettlebell up.
  4. Alternate sides, keeping torso stable.
  5. Maintain neutral spine throughout.
  6. Continue for reps per side.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Drive elbow back.
  • Squeeze shoulder blades.
  • Keep back flat.
  • Core tight.
  • No torso twist.
  • Control the descent.

Breathing

Inhale as you lower the kettlebell; exhale as you pull it up, bracing core on each breath.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

From full arm extension with kettlebells hanging to elbow at torso height with kettlebell at ribcage; torso stable without rotation.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute lower back pain exists.
  • Use lighter weight if balance is an issue.
  • Stop if form breaks to prevent strain.
  • Consult professional with pre-existing shoulder issues.
  • Ensure stable footing to avoid slips.
  • Progress gradually to avoid overload.

Spotting

Spotting not typically required; partner can assist by stabilizing torso if needed, or use safeties like elevated platforms for easier setup.

Common Mistakes

  • Rounding back during hinge.
  • Yanking with arm instead of pulling with back.
  • Rotating torso on alternates.
  • Letting non-working arm swing.
  • Using momentum over control.
  • Poor hip hinge leading to knee bend.

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Recent spinal surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Hip hinge flexibility for 45-degree torso angle
  • Shoulder mobility for full arm extension

Build Up First

  • Master basic hip hinge
  • Proficient single-arm row form
  • Core bracing competency

Also known as

Alternating Kettlebell Bent-Over Row, Single-Arm Kettlebell Alternating Row, Kettlebell Dual Row Alternating

Found this helpful?

Share your thoughts or help us improve this guide.

Hero Image

Master your movement.

Experience automatic exercise detection and rep counting - powered by the motion of your Apple Watch.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies.