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Kettlebell Rear Delt Row

Intermediate
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Bent-over kettlebell row that targets rear deltoids and upper back to build shoulder stability and posture; used for upper body strength and hypertrophy.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders, Traps

Secondary Muscles

Biceps

Accessory Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training
Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

10/10

Rear Delts

Traps

8/10

Mid Traps, Lower Traps

Lats

6/10

Biceps

4/10

Abs

2/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand feet shoulder-width apart, hinge at hips with back straight, hold kettlebells in neutral grip hanging down.

  1. Engage core and pull kettlebells toward lower rib cage.
  2. Drive elbows up and out at 45-60 degrees.
  3. Squeeze shoulder blades together at top.
  4. Hold contraction for one second.
  5. Lower kettlebells slowly to start position.
  6. Repeat for reps.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Squeeze blades together
  • Elbows flare slightly
  • Keep back flat
  • Lead with rear delts
  • Maintain neutral spine

Breathing

Inhale during lowering, exhale as you pull and squeeze.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From full arm extension below shoulders to elbows at torso height with shoulder blades retracted.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid jerking motions
  • Start with light weight
  • Keep neck neutral
  • Hinge properly at hips
  • Consult doctor for shoulder issues

Spotting

Spotting not required; use lighter weights if alone

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum to swing
  • Rounding back
  • Pulling with biceps only
  • Flaring elbows too wide
  • Dropping head forward

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Lower back strain
  • Acute rotator cuff injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Hip hinge mobility
  • Shoulder external rotation

Build Up First

  • Basic rowing form
  • Core bracing technique

Also known as

KB Rear Delt Row, Bent-Over Kettlebell Rear Delt Row, Kettlebell Rear Deltoid Row

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