Kettlebell High Pull

A swing that finishes with a hard elbow pull to chest height. Teaches the vertical path the snatch needs and loads the upper back at speed.

DIFFICULTY
Intermediate
EQUIPMENT
Kettlebell
PRIMARY MUSCLES
Glutes · Hamstrings · Traps
ALSO WORKS
Posterior Deltoid · Rhomboids · Lats · Forearms & Grip
HOW TO DO IT
  1. 01Hike the bell back between the legs and snap the hips through as in a swing.
  2. 02As the bell reaches chest height, pull the elbow back and high, thumb turning toward the shoulder.
  3. 03Keep the bell close, letting the handle float rather than yanking it into the chest.
  4. 04Reverse the pull, push the arm back out long as the bell falls.
  5. 05Hinge to absorb the load and repeat without pausing at the top.
COACHING CUES
  1. 01Elbow high and back, not out to the side.
  2. 02The hips throw it, the arm only steers.
  3. 03Let it float before you pull.
COMMON MISTAKES
  1. 01Pulling early while the bell is still rising from the hips, which fights the momentum you just created.
  2. 02Shrugging the shoulder to the ear, which loads the upper traps and leaves the mid-back out of it.
  3. 03Letting the bell drift forward, which pulls you onto your toes and shortens the hinge.

Note: Reference material, not a prescription. Load, volume and whether this movement suits you at all depends on your assessment — if something hurts, stop and get it looked at.

Want a program built around you?

BOOK YOUR ASSESSMENT →