Exercise technique

kettlebell overhead carry

Stand tall and press a kettlebell overhead with both hands on the horns, locking the elbows with the biceps near the ears. Maintain a stacked rib‑cage–pelvis position and walk under control for distance or time while keeping the kettlebell directly over your midfoot.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Select a moderate kettlebell, hold it by the horns at chest height, then press it overhead until elbows are straight and wrists neutral.
  2. Set your position: ribs down, pelvis neutral, abs and glutes braced; biceps align with or slightly behind the ears.
  3. Actively reach the kettlebell to the ceiling so the shoulder blades upwardly rotate; keep the weight stacked over the midfoot.
  4. Begin walking with small, controlled steps and a tall posture—no leaning, rib flare, or low‑back arch.
  5. Keep the kettlebell stable (no drifting forward/back), eyes forward, and breathe behind the brace.
  6. Turn carefully as needed without losing overhead lockout or trunk alignment.
  7. After the set, stop, lower the kettlebell to the chest with control, then to the floor.

Which other muscles are involved?

Traps, Serratus anterior, Triceps, Abs, Upper back, Glutes.

How do you log your sets?

How do you track progressive overload?

Source: ExerciseDB catalogue and demonstration. Related movements are options to compare, not equivalent loads or a prescribed progression.

Alternatives to explore

STARK is a strength training tracker for iPhone and Apple Watch. Log sets, repetitions and weights, then follow your progress. Core features are free. Explore STARK’s features