Atlas
Kettlebell Pistol Squat: starting position Kettlebell Pistol Squat: end position

Squat · Quads

Kettlebell Pistol Squat

A squat exercise that works the quads. Advanced level, using kettlebell.

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Muscles worked

PrimaryQuads
SecondaryCalves (gastrocnemius & soleus), Glutes, Hamstrings, Shoulders

Quads, glutes, and balance.

Setup and loading

Light kettlebell as a counterweight.

How to do the kettlebell pistol squat step by step

  1. Hold the kettlebell by the horns in front of you.
  2. Lift one leg out in front and lower on the other.
  3. Stand back up without putting your free leg down.

Form cues

  • The kettlebell acts as a counterweight
  • Heel down

Common mistakes

  • Knee caving in
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

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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