Atlas
Sledgehammer Swings: starting position Sledgehammer Swings: end position

Push & Drag · Abs

Sledgehammer Swings

A push & drag exercise that works the abs. Beginner level, using sled.

BeginnerSledGym

Muscles worked

PrimaryAbs
SecondaryCalves (gastrocnemius & soleus), Forearms, Lats, Traps & mid back, Shoulders

Core, lats, shoulders, and forearms.

Setup and loading

Tire and a 4-8 kg sledgehammer.

How to do the sledgehammer swings step by step

  1. Face a tire in a staggered stance.
  2. Bring the hammer up over your shoulder, sliding your hand.
  3. Strike the tire hard and alternate sides.

Form cues

  • Power comes from your hips and core
  • Firm grip

Common mistakes

  • Swinging with your arms only
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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.

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

Variations and similar exercises

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