Setup and loading
Light kettlebell as a counterweight.
How to do the kettlebell pistol squat step by step
- Hold the kettlebell by the horns in front of you.
- Lift one leg out in front and lower on the other.
- Stand back up without putting your free leg down.
Form cues
- The kettlebell acts as a counterweight
- Heel down
Common mistakes
- Knee caving in
Sets and reps for your goal
Hypertrophy
3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s3-4 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 min3-6 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.
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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