Difficulty level: Novice
Target Muscle: Shoulders
Equipment: Kettlebell
Instructions for proper form
1. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in each hand at shoulder height with a pronated grip. 2. Engage your core and ensure your back is straight. 3. Push through your legs, driving your hips forward, and use the momentum to lift the kettlebells overhead. 4. As you finish the lift, lock out your arms at the top, ensuring that your shoulders are down and away from your ears. 5. Lower one kettlebell back to the shoulder while keeping the other one overhead, then alternate to the opposite arm. Maintain steady and controlled movements throughout the exercise.
Common mistakes to avoid
1. Avoid arching your back during the lift; keep your core engaged to protect your spine. 2. Do not let your shoulders rise towards your ears when lifting; keep them relaxed. 3. Ensure your feet remain flat on the ground to maintain balance throughout the movement.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
The Alternating Double Kettlebell Push Jerk is excellent for developing shoulder strength and stability, as well as enhancing overall upper body power and coordination.
Expected results and timeframe
With consistent practice (3 times a week), you can expect noticeable improvements in shoulder strength and endurance within 4-6 weeks..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is best for novice to intermediate lifters looking to build upper body strength and improve their athletic performance.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Research indicates that compound exercises like kettlebell lifts enhance functional strength and coordination, which is supported by various studies on resistance training effectiveness.
Variations
Beginner modifications
Perform the exercise with a single kettlebell, focusing on mastering form before progressing to double kettlebell usage. Alternatively, reduce the weight of the kettlebells to ensure proper technique.
Advanced progressions
For advanced lifters, add a slight pause at the top of each push jerk for greater shoulder stability focus, or try performing the exercise on one leg for increased core and balance challenges.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
Complement this exercise with rows and shoulder presses to enhance overall shoulder development and back strength.
Super set recommendations
Pair the Alternating Double Kettlebell Push Jerk with kettlebell swings for a dynamic and efficient upper body and cardio workout.
Sample workout routines
1. Warm-up (5-10 minutes) 2. Alternating Double Kettlebell Push Jerk – 3 sets of 8-10 reps per arm 3. Kettlebell Swings – 3 sets of 12-15 reps 4. Kettlebell Rows – 3 sets of 10-12 reps 5. Cool down and stretching.
Exercise combinations
Combine this exercise with push-ups and bent-over rows for a comprehensive upper body workout.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
Include this exercise in your workout after your warm-up and before isolating exercises targeting individual muscle groups, ideally in the main strength training section.