Atlas
One-Arm Kettlebell Clean and Jerk: starting position One-Arm Kettlebell Clean and Jerk: end position

Olympic Lifts · Shoulders

One-Arm Kettlebell Clean and Jerk

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

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Muscles worked

PrimaryShoulders

Shoulders, legs and posterior chain.

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

Setup and loading

Kettlebell held by the handle.

How to do the one-arm kettlebell clean and jerk step by step

  1. Clean the kettlebell to your shoulder by extending your hips and legs.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and drive up hard.
  3. Drop under the kettlebell with another quick dip and lock out overhead.
  4. Stand up with your arm straight.

Form cues

  • Two quick knee dips
  • Arm locked out overhead

Common mistakes

  • Doing it slowly, like a press
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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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