Atlas
Kettlebell Dead Clean: starting position Kettlebell Dead Clean: end position

Olympic Lifts · Hamstrings

Kettlebell Dead Clean

A olympic lifts exercise that works the hamstrings. Intermediate level, using kettlebell.

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Muscles worked

PrimaryHamstrings
SecondaryCalves (gastrocnemius & soleus), Glutes, Lower back, Quads, Traps & mid back

Hamstrings, glutes, traps, and shoulder.

Technical lift: the photos show the start and end positions. Learn the full bar path with a coach.

Setup and loading

Every rep starts from the floor.

How to do the kettlebell dead clean step by step

  1. Kettlebell between your feet, hips back.
  2. Bring it to your shoulder by extending your legs and hips.
  3. Rotate your wrist to catch it, then lower it back to the floor.

Form cues

  • Hips drive the lift
  • Soft catch

Common mistakes

  • Pulling with your arm
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Sets and reps for your goal

Power

4-6 x 2-5 · full rest

3-6 sets of 1-5 reps with light or moderate loads (30-60% of your max on the main lifts), or with a ball or your bodyweight. Rest 2 to 3 minutes.

Every rep at the highest possible speed. As soon as you notice it moving slower (a 10-20% velocity loss), end the set. Train power fresh, never fatigued.

Max Strength

4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min

3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.

Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • KettlebellStart with 12-16 kg (26-35 lb) for women or 16-24 kg (35-53 lb) for men.

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Variations and similar exercises

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