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Kettlebell Single-Arm Push Press

Intermediate
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A unilateral kettlebell overhead press using leg drive, targeting shoulders, quads, and glutes to build explosive power, upper body strength, and core stability; commonly used in functional and conditioning training.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell

Difficulty

4/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders, Quads

Secondary Muscles

Abs, Obliques

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Power
Strength
Conditioning

Training Style

CrossFit
Functional Training
Weightlifting

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

9/10

Anterior Delts, Medial Delts

Quads

8/10

Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis

Glutes

7/10

Glute Max

Triceps

6/10

Lateral Head

Abs

5/10

Rectus Abdominis

Obliques

5/10

External Obliques

Programming

Typical Rep Range

5-10 reps

Rest Between Sets

90-180 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, clean kettlebell to rack position in one hand, elbow tucked, free arm out for balance, core braced.

  1. Bend knees into quarter squat dip with chest up.
  2. Explosively drive hips and legs upward.
  3. Simultaneously press kettlebell overhead, rotating wrist forward.
  4. Lock out arm fully overhead with kettlebell over shoulder.
  5. Lower kettlebell controlled to rack position.
  6. Repeat reps on one side, then switch arms.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Drive through heels
  • Keep core tight
  • Elbow arcs naturally
  • Eyes forward
  • Neutral spine

Breathing

Inhale during dip, brace core, exhale through drive and press.

Tempo

2-0-1

Range of Motion

Dip to knees at 45 degrees, press to full elbow extension overhead with arm straight above shoulder.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute shoulder pain
  • Use light weight first
  • Control all phases
  • Brace core to prevent tilt
  • No excessive arching

Spotting

Spotter assists by supporting elbow during heavy sets or provides feedback on form; solo with light weights.

Common Mistakes

  • Leaning away from weight
  • Over-dipping knees
  • Rushing descent
  • Poor wrist alignment
  • Twisting torso

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Lower back instability
  • Wrist injuries

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 180 degrees
  • Ankle dorsiflexion for stability

Build Up First

  • Master kettlebell clean
  • Basic overhead press form
  • Hip drive mechanics

Also known as

One-Arm Kettlebell Push Press, Single Kettlebell Push Press, Kettlebell One-Arm Overhead Press

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