All Exercises

Kettlebell Dead Bug

Strengthen your core and improve stability with the Kettlebell Dead Bug. This anti-extension exercise targets your abs and lower back for a resilient

Intermediate
Compound
Static
1 min per set30s rest

Description

An exercise that targets the core, abs, and lower back muscles. It involves lying on the back, holding a kettlebell with extended arms, and alternately extending the opposite arm and leg.

How to Do Kettlebell Dead Bug

  1. 1
    Setup

    Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor, and your lower back pressed firmly into the ground.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Hold a kettlebell with both hands, arms extended straight up so the kettlebell is directly over your chest, ensuring your elbows are locked.

  3. 3
    Setup

    Lift your knees directly over your hips, shins parallel to the floor, creating a 90-degree bend at your hips and knees (tabletop position).

  4. 4

    Slowly and simultaneously extend one arm (keeping the kettlebell stable overhead) and the opposite leg towards the floor, exhaling as you extend.

  5. 5

    Maintain constant pressure of your lower back against the floor as you extend your limbs, preventing any arching in your spine.

  6. 6

    Inhale as you slowly return the extended arm and leg to the starting tabletop position, then repeat the movement on the opposite side.

Tips

  • Actively press your lower back into the floor throughout the entire exercise to prevent any arching and maximize core engagement.
  • Control the descent of your arm and leg; the slower and more deliberate your movement, the greater the time under tension for your core.
  • Keep your eyes fixed on the kettlebell to help maintain its stable position directly over your chest, preventing any unnecessary swaying.
  • Coordinate your breath: Exhale forcefully as you extend your limbs, and inhale as you bring them back to the starting position to enhance core activation.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Arching the lower back off the floor reduces core engagement; actively draw your navel towards your spine to maintain contact with the floor.
  • ×Allowing the kettlebell to sway or move excessively indicates a lack of shoulder stability; focus on locking your elbows and engaging your lats to keep it still.
  • ×Rushing the movement diminishes its effectiveness; slow down the extension and return of your limbs to maximize control and core challenge.

Variations

Related Exercises

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