Atlas
Kettlebell Single-Leg Deadlift: starting position Kettlebell Single-Leg Deadlift: end position

Hip Hinge · Hamstrings

Kettlebell Single-Leg Deadlift

A hip hinge exercise that works the hamstrings. Intermediate level, using kettlebell.

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Muscles worked

PrimaryHamstrings
SecondaryGlutes, Lower back

Hamstrings, glutes, and balance.

Setup and loading

Kettlebell hanging by your leg.

How to do the kettlebell single-leg deadlift step by step

  1. Hold the kettlebell in the hand on the same side as your standing leg.
  2. With a slight bend in your knee, hinge forward and send your other leg back.
  3. Lower until you feel tension in your hamstring, then return.

Form cues

  • Hips square
  • Back straight

Common mistakes

  • Opening your hips
  • Rounding your back
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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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