Difficulty level: Intermediate
Target Muscle: Quadriceps
Equipment: Kettlebell
Instructions for proper form
1. Stand upright with feet hip-width apart, holding a kettlebell in your right hand in a suitcase position. 2. Step back with your left leg into a reverse lunge while lowering your body toward the ground. 3. As you lower down, pass the kettlebell under your left leg with your right hand, keeping your back straight. 4. Return to the starting position by pressing through your right foot and bringing your left leg forward. 5. Repeat the movement alternating legs, ensuring that your knee does not extend past your toes and your trunk remains upright throughout the exercise.
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid leaning too far forward during the lunge, which can put strain on your lower back. Do not let your front knee extend past your toes. Ensure the kettlebell passes smoothly under your leg without jerky motions.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
This exercise targets the quadriceps while promoting balance and coordination through the alternating movements. It also engages the core for stability and strength.
Expected results and timeframe
Expect to see increased strength in the quadriceps, improved balance, and enhanced muscular endurance within 4-6 weeks of consistent training, 2-3 times per week..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is ideal for intermediate individuals looking to enhance lower body strength and coordination. It benefits athletes, those looking to improve functional movement patterns, and anyone targeting lower body fitness.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Studies have shown that single-arm kettlebell exercises enhance core stability and strength by forcing the body to engage its stabilizer muscles. Research suggests incorporating functional movements like this can improve muscular balance and control.
Variations
Beginner modifications
Perform the exercise without a weight at first to master the lunge mechanics. Alternatively, use a lighter kettlebell or perform lunges without the kettlebell pass-through to focus on form.
Advanced progressions
For an advanced option, increase the weight of the kettlebell and aim for deeper lunges, or perform the exercise on an unstable surface (like a balance pad) to further challenge stability.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
Complement this exercise with squats, deadlifts, or kettlebell swings to enhance overall leg strength.
Super set recommendations
Pair this exercise with kettlebell goblet squats for a super set to maximize lower body fatigue.
Sample workout routines
An effective routine could include: 3 sets of 10-12 Single Arm Kettlebell Suitcase Alternating Reverse Lunge Pass Throughs followed by 3 sets of 10-12 kettlebell goblet squats.
Exercise combinations
Combine with lunges or step-ups, focusing on alternating between these compound movements for balanced leg development.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
Incorporate this exercise in the lower body portion of your workout, ideally after warm-ups or lighter exercises but before performing heavy compound lifts.