Kettlebell Single-Arm Split Jerk exercise demonstration image

Video Coming Soon

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

Kettlebell Single-Arm Split Jerk

Advanced
Home Friendly

Explosive kettlebell lift using leg drive and split stance to press weight overhead, targeting shoulders, quads, glutes, and triceps for power, coordination, and full-body strength.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell

Difficulty

4/5 • Advanced

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders, Quads

Secondary Muscles

Hamstrings, Abs

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Power
Strength
Conditioning

Training Style

Weightlifting
CrossFit
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Medium

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

9/10

Anterior Delts

Quads

8/10

Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis

Glutes

7/10

Glute Max

Triceps

6/10

Lateral Head

Hamstrings

5/10

Biceps Femoris

Abs

4/10

Rectus Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

3-8 reps

Rest Between Sets

90-180 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, clean kettlebell to rack position on one shoulder with elbow tucked and fist near chin.

  1. Bend knees slightly into a quick dip while keeping torso upright.
  2. Explosively drive hips and legs upward to propel kettlebell overhead.
  3. Simultaneously split stance with front foot forward and back leg extended.
  4. Catch kettlebell overhead with arm locked and front knee at 90 degrees.
  5. Bring feet together to stand while holding overhead position.
  6. Lower kettlebell controlled to rack position.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Drive through heels
  • Split feet quickly
  • Lock elbow fully
  • Core tight throughout
  • Biceps by ears

Breathing

Inhale during dip, brace core and exhale forcefully through the drive and lockout.

Tempo

1-0-1

Range of Motion

Dip to quarter squat depth, full arm extension overhead with kettlebell above shoulder, split lunge with front thigh parallel to ground.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Warm up shoulders and hips
  • Start light to master form
  • Avoid if shoulder instability present
  • Ensure thoracic mobility for lockout

Spotting

Not typically needed; use lighter weight or practice components if solo.

Common Mistakes

  • Pressing with arm instead of leg drive
  • Incomplete split stance
  • Leaning torso forward
  • Dropping kettlebell uncontrolled

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Lower back issues
  • Recent hip surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Full shoulder flexion
  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion
  • Thoracic spine mobility

Build Up First

  • Master kettlebell clean
  • Proficient push press
  • Stable split stance competency

Also known as

One-Arm Kettlebell Split Jerk, Single Kettlebell Split Jerk, Kettlebell One-Arm Jerk

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.