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Kettlebell Two Arm Clean

The kettlebell two arm clean is a dynamic movement that targets the deltoids while also engaging the traps and forearms. It requires coordination, explosive power, and proper technique to safely transition the kettlebell from the ground to the rack position.

Quick Facts

Body PartsShoulders
Target MusclesDelts
Secondary MusclesTraps and Forearms
EquipmentKettlebell
DifficultyIntermediate
Exercise TypeStrength
BilateralYes

How to Do Kettlebell Two Arm Clean

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Kettlebell Two Arm Clean with proper form and technique.

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in front of your thighs with both hands, palms facing towards you.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and hinge at the hips, lowering the kettlebell towards the ground.
  3. Explosively extend your hips and knees, using the momentum to pull the kettlebell up towards your shoulders.
  4. As the kettlebell reaches shoulder height, rotate your wrists and catch the kettlebell in the rack position, with your elbows tucked in and the kettlebell resting on the back of your forearm.
  5. Lower the kettlebell back down to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

Understanding which muscles Kettlebell Two Arm Clean targets helps you integrate it effectively into your training program.

Target Muscles

These are the main muscles responsible for performing the movement and receive the greatest training stimulus.

Delts

Secondary Muscles

These muscles assist in the movement and receive secondary training benefits.

TrapsForearms

Benefits of Kettlebell Two Arm Clean

Incorporating Kettlebell Two Arm Clean into your workout routine offers numerous advantages for strength, muscle development, and overall fitness.

  • Delts Development: Kettlebell Two Arm Clean directly targets and strengthens the Delts, promoting muscle growth and improved functional strength.
  • Secondary Muscle Engagement: This exercise also works the Traps and Forearms, providing additional training stimulus without extra exercises.
  • Dynamic Strength: Kettlebell exercises develop functional strength and power while improving grip strength and core stability.
  • Functional Strength: Strength exercises like Kettlebell Two Arm Clean build real-world strength that transfers to daily activities and athletic performance.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Performing Kettlebell Two Arm Clean safely is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring long-term progress.

  • Warm Up Properly: Before performing Kettlebell Two Arm Clean, complete 5-10 minutes of light cardio followed by dynamic stretches targeting the Delts and surrounding muscles.
  • Prioritize Form Over Weight: Never sacrifice proper technique for heavier weights. Poor form significantly increases injury risk and reduces the exercise's effectiveness.
  • Maintain Grip Security: Ensure your hands are dry or use chalk if needed. A kettlebell slipping mid-movement can cause serious injury.
  • Shoulder Protection: Avoid flaring your elbows excessively, which can strain the shoulder joint. Keep your shoulders packed and stable.
  • Respect Your Range of Motion: Work within your current mobility limits. Gradually improve flexibility over time rather than forcing deeper positions.
  • Don't Hold Your Breath: Maintain consistent breathing throughout the exercise. Exhale during the exertion phase and inhale during the easier phase.
  • Know When to Stop: End your set when you can no longer maintain proper form. Training to absolute failure on every set increases injury risk.
  • Allow Adequate Recovery: The Delts typically need 48-72 hours to recover after intense training. Avoid training the same muscle group on consecutive days.

Tracking Your Progress

To make consistent gains with Kettlebell Two Arm Clean, track these metrics during your workouts:

Sets

Track the number of sets you complete. Most training programs recommend 3-5 sets per exercise.

Reps

Record your repetitions per set. Adjust rep ranges based on your goals: 1-5 for strength, 6-12 for hypertrophy, 12+ for endurance.

Weight

Log the weight used for progressive overload. Aim to gradually increase weight while maintaining proper form.

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