Fitness Champ Get the app

Abs exercise · kettlebell

Kettlebell Windmill

The kettlebell windmill is a kettlebell exercise that targets the abs, with the obliques and shoulders assisting.

Animated demonstration of the kettlebell windmill
Kettlebell Windmill — demonstration
Target muscle
Abs
Also works
Obliques, shoulders
Equipment
Kettlebell
Body part
Waist

How to do the kettlebell windmill

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in your right hand overhead.
  2. Rotate your left foot outwards about 45 degrees and keep your right foot pointing forward.
  3. Bend your torso to the left side, keeping your right arm extended overhead and your eyes on the kettlebell.
  4. Lower your torso as far as you can while keeping your right arm straight and your left arm extended to the side.
  5. Pause for a moment, then return to the starting position by pushing through your right foot and engaging your obliques.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch sides.

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 abs. The obliques and shoulders work as secondary muscles. See all ab exercises or every kettlebell exercise.

Free on iPhone and Android

Track your kettlebell windmill in the app.

Every one of these 1,300+ exercises is in the app with its demo and steps. Build a plan for your goal, log every set, and the rest timer starts itself. No account, no ads.

QR code linking to the Fitness Champ download

Scan to get the app

Similar abs exercises