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Kettlebell Lunge and Rotation

Intermediate
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A dynamic lunge variation holding a kettlebell in goblet position, combining forward stepping with torso rotation to target quads, glutes, hamstrings, and obliques for improved stability, coordination, and core strength in multi-directional movements.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell

Difficulty

4/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Quads, Glutes, Obliques

Secondary Muscles

Lower Back, Adductors, Calves, Hip Flexors

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Stability
Conditioning
Mobility

Training Style

Functional Training
CrossFit

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Medium

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Quads

9/10

Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis

Glutes

8/10

Glute Max

Obliques

8/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Hamstrings

7/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus

Abs

6/10

Rectus Abdominis

Lower Back

5/10

Erector Spinae

Adductors

4/10

Calves

3/10

Soleus

Hip Flexors

3/10

Iliopsoas

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, holding a kettlebell close to your chest with both hands, elbows tucked in, core braced.

  1. Step forward with right foot into lunge until both knees bend 90 degrees, front thigh parallel to floor.
  2. Rotate torso and kettlebell right over front leg, keeping hips square and spine tall.
  3. Return torso to center facing forward.
  4. Drive through front heel to return to stand.
  5. Repeat on left side, alternating legs.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Keep chest up.
  • Core tight throughout.
  • Knees track over toes.
  • Rotate from thoracic spine.
  • Hips level in lunge.

Breathing

Inhale as you lunge forward, exhale as you rotate and push back to start.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

Lower until front thigh is parallel to floor, back knee hovers above ground; rotate torso 45 degrees over front leg without twisting hips.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute knee or lower back pain present.
  • Master bodyweight lunges first.
  • Use light weight to practice form.
  • Ensure clear space to avoid obstacles.

Spotting

No spotter needed; use self-supported technique or wall for balance if beginner.

Common Mistakes

  • Knee caving inward.
  • Leaning forward during rotation.
  • Using momentum instead of control.
  • Twisting lower back excessively.
  • Insufficient lunge depth.

When to Avoid

  • Acute knee injuries
  • Lower back strains
  • Shoulder instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion
  • Thoracic spine rotation
  • Hip flexion mobility

Build Up First

  • Proficiency in basic lunges
  • Core bracing technique
  • Balance in single-leg stance

Also known as

Goblet Lunge with Rotation, Rotational Kettlebell Lunge, Kettlebell Rotating Lunge

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