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Shoulders exercise · kettlebell

Kettlebell One Arm Jerk

The kettlebell one arm jerk is a kettlebell exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the triceps and core assisting.

Animated demonstration of the kettlebell one arm jerk
Kettlebell One Arm Jerk — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Triceps, core
Equipment
Kettlebell
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the kettlebell one arm jerk

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in one hand at shoulder height.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and engage your core.
  3. Press the kettlebell overhead in a straight line, fully extending your arm.
  4. As you press the kettlebell overhead, simultaneously dip your knees and quickly straighten them to generate momentum.
  5. As the kettlebell reaches its highest point, quickly drop underneath it by bending your knees and hips.
  6. Catch the kettlebell with a slight bend in your knees and hips, and your arm fully extended overhead.
  7. Stand up straight, fully extending your knees and hips, and stabilize the kettlebell overhead.
  8. Lower the kettlebell back to the starting position by bending your knees and hips, and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the shoulders (deltoids). The triceps and core work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every kettlebell exercise.

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