Kettlebell Overhead Press
Overhead push for shoulders and triceps. The kettlebell requires you to control its position throughout the movement.
- Primary muscleShoulders
- Also worksTriceps
- EquipmentKettlebell
- TypeCompound
- MovementVertical push
- LevelIntermediate
- Shoulders
- Triceps
- Kettlebell
How to do the Kettlebell Overhead Press
4 steps, in the order you do them.
- Bring a kettlebell to each shoulder, with the bell resting on your forearm and your elbows close to your body.
- Brace your abs and squeeze your glutes, keeping your wrists straight.
- Press both kettlebells up until your arms are straight, with your biceps close to your ears.
- Lower slowly back to your shoulders, without letting the kettlebells hit your forearms.
Muscles worked
Common Kettlebell Overhead Press mistakes
What goes wrong most often when you do the Kettlebell Overhead Press, and how to fix it.
The kettlebell sits poorly in the rack position and bangs your forearm.
Rest the handle on the base of your palm, the bell against your forearm and your elbow near your ribs.
The kettlebells drift apart to the sides as you press.
Press with your forearms vertical and finish with your arms next to your ears.
Your wrists bend back under the weight of the bell.
Make a tight fist and keep your wrist straight even as the bell pulls it back.
Alternatives to the Kettlebell Overhead Press
They work the shoulders with other equipment, including options for training at home.
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Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Kettlebell Overhead Press work?
The Kettlebell Overhead Press works mainly the shoulders. It also works the triceps and the front delts.