Kettlebell Curl

PullKB

Standard biceps curl performed holding kettlebells instead of dumbbells. The kettlebell's offset handle and horn shape create a slightly different grip and resistance feel versus a dumbbell curl.

Demo: General KB Technique Tutorial

Sets

3

Reps

10-12

Rest

1 min

Contraindications

None significant.

Setup

Stand holding a kettlebell by the handle in each hand (or one at a time), arms at the sides, elbows tucked in.

Execution

  1. 1Keep the elbow pinned to the side throughout
  2. 2Curl the kettlebell up, supinating the wrist as needed for comfort
  3. 3Squeeze the biceps at the top
  4. 4Lower under control back to full extension

Key cues

  • Elbow stays still, only the forearm moves
  • Grip the horn/handle firmly for stability
  • No shoulder swing to cheat the weight up
  • Full stretch at the bottom every rep

Common faults

  • Letting the kettlebell's offset weight distribution create wrist instability
  • Swinging the torso for momentum
  • Elbow drifting forward away from the torso
  • Rushing through reps without controlling the kettlebell's balance

Tweaks

  • Double kettlebell curl for a bilateral loading challenge
  • Alternate arms for a controlled unilateral variant
  • Bottoms-up kettlebell curl for an advanced grip and stability challenge

Regressions

Muscles

Primary: Biceps Brachii

Secondary: Brachialis, Forearms

Notes

Functionally identical to a dumbbell curl; the kettlebell's shape simply provides a different grip and slight balance challenge.

Sources

Attribution: General Kettlebell Strength Canon