Double Kettlebell Dead Clean

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Target Muscle: Glutes

Equipment: Kettlebell

Instructions for proper form

1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and place a kettlebell on the floor between your feet. 2. Bend at the hips and knees to grasp the kettlebells with a neutral grip. 3. Engage your core and keep your chest up, with your back straight. 4. Initiate the movement by driving through your heels, extending your hips forward as you lift the kettlebells upward. 5. Allow the kettlebells to travel close to your body, pulling them in towards your chest as you transition to a front rack position at shoulder height. 6. Reverse the movement by lowering the kettlebells, maintaining control and proper posture as they return to the starting position. 7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions while maintaining a steady, controlled movement throughout.

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Rounding your back during the lift instead of maintaining a neutral spine. 2. Using your arms to lift the kettlebells rather than engaging your hips and glutes. 3. Letting the kettlebells swing away from your body instead of keeping them close. 4. Failing to fully extend the hips at the top of the movement.

Benefits

Specific benefits of the exercise

The Double Kettlebell Dead Clean primarily targets the glutes while also engaging the hamstrings, core, and shoulders. It improves explosive strength, power, and overall functional fitness.

Expected results and timeframe

With consistent training (2-3 times per week), you can expect noticeable improvements in glute strength, overall power, and functional fitness within 4-6 weeks..

Who this exercise is best for

This exercise is best for intermediate to advanced lifters looking to improve their strength, explosiveness, and functional movement patterns, particularly athletes and fitness enthusiasts focusing on lower body power.

Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness

Studies on kettlebell training show improvements in core stability, strength, and power output. Kettlebell ballistic training has been linked to enhanced athletic performance (Source: Rhea, M.R., et al., Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2009).

Variations

Beginner modifications

For beginners, consider starting with a single kettlebell dead clean or using a lighter kettlebell to build strength and form before progressing to double kettlebell cleans.

Advanced progressions

Advanced progressions include incorporating variations such as the Double Kettlebell Snatch or adding a jump at the end of the lift for increased explosiveness.

Integrations

Complementary exercises

Complementary exercises include kettlebell swings, squats, and lunges to enhance overall lower body strength and power.

Super set recommendations

Super set the Double Kettlebell Dead Clean with a core exercise like planks or Russian twists to engage the core while allowing recovery for the glutes.

Sample workout routines

Incorporate this exercise in a full-body routine including deadlifts, push-ups, and kettlebell swings for a balanced approach that targets multiple muscle groups.

Exercise combinations

Pair the Double Kettlebell Dead Clean with overhead presses or rows to create a compound lifting session focusing on strength and conditioning.

Best time to do this exercise in your workout

This exercise is best performed in the strength segment of your workout, typically after warm-up and mobility work, and before any fatigue-based conditioning movements.