Appears in642 Workouts*

Kettlebell Figure 8

Strengthen your core and improve coordination with the Kettlebell Figure 8! A fun, dynamic exercise for a full-body workout.

The Kettlebell Figure 8 is a compound exercise that mainly works the core and quads, with help from the glutes & hips. You'll need: kettlebells.

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Required Equipment

Kettlebells
Kettlebells

Kettlebell Figure 8 Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Quads (quadriceps femoris)

Secondary

Obliques; Glutes (gluteus maximus)

How to do the Kettlebell Figure 8

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a kettlebell in one hand down between your legs.

  2. Lower your body into a semi-squat position, keeping your back straight and head up.

  3. Pass the kettlebell from one hand to the other hand under your legs, tracing a figure-eight pattern.

  4. As you pass the kettlebell behind the leg, ensure you're using a smooth motion and maintaining a good grip on the kettlebell.

  5. Once the kettlebell is back in the starting hand, straighten up slightly before going back into the semi-squat position and repeating the movement.

  6. Keep the movement smooth and continuous for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips: Make sure to keep your core engaged throughout the exercise to protect your lower back. Do not round your back; keep it naturally arched. Keep your chest up and your gaze forward to maintain good posture. Start with a lighter weight to focus on form and gradually increase the weight as you get more comfortable with the movement. Breathe rhythmically and avoid holding your breath.

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Kettlebell Figure 8 FAQs

What muscles does the Kettlebell Figure 8 work?

The Kettlebell Figure 8 mainly works the core and quads, with help from the glutes & hips. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and quadriceps femoris.

What equipment do you need for the Kettlebell Figure 8?

Kettlebells.

Is the Kettlebell Figure 8 a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Kettlebell Figure 8 go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Kettlebell Figure 8 variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Figure-8 March, Towel Figure 8, Kettlebell Halo and Kettlebell Figure 8-Swing.

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