Kettlebell Hang Clean
Explosive full-body workout! The Kettlebell Hang Clean builds strength & power. Master the technique and elevate your fitness.
The Kettlebell Hang Clean is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the back and biceps. You'll need: kettlebells.
Required Equipment

Kettlebell Hang Clean Muscles Worked
Primary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)
Secondary
Lats (latissimus dorsi); Biceps (biceps brachii)
Kettlebell Hang Clean Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Kettlebell Hang Clean
Start by standing up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart while holding a kettlebell in one hand at thigh level. Ensure you are holding the kettlebell with an overhand grip (palm facing you), and your arm is fully extended downward. This is the "hang" position.
Slightly bend your knees, hinge at your hips, and lower your torso until it is nearly parallel to the floor, allowing the kettlebell to hang straight down at about knee level. Keep your back flat and look forward, so your neck is in line with your spine. Maintain this bent-over position, which will be your starting point.
Explosively extend your hips and knees to drive upward, as if you are going to jump. In a smooth motion, pull the kettlebell upwards by bending your elbow and bringing it up to chest height, keeping it close to your body.
As the kettlebell rises to your shoulders, rotate your wrist and catch the kettlebell at shoulder height in the 'rack position', where your palm is now facing inward and the kettlebell rests on the outside of your arm. At the same time, drop your body under the kettlebell by bending your knees and hips slightly to absorb the weight.
Finally, straighten your legs and stand up fully, keeping the kettlebell in the rack position at your shoulder.
Lower the kettlebell back to the starting hang position in a controlled manner and prepare for the next repetition.
Perform the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching hands and repeating the process with the other arm.
Note: Make sure to start with a lighter weight to perfect the technique before attempting heavier kettlebells. Proper form is crucial to avoid injury and ensure the effectiveness of the exercise.
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Kettlebell Hang Clean FAQs
What muscles does the Kettlebell Hang Clean work?
The Kettlebell Hang Clean mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the back and biceps. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and quadriceps femoris.
What equipment do you need for the Kettlebell Hang Clean?
Kettlebells.
Is the Kettlebell Hang Clean 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 Hang Clean go on?
It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Kettlebell Hang Clean variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Barbell Hang Clean Below-Knee, Hang & Power-Clean, Dumbbell Clean and Dumbbell Hang Power-Clean.
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