Kettlebell Dead Clean
Kettlebell Dead Clean is an intermediate compound kettlebell exercise that mainly works your hamstrings, with help from your calves, glutes, lower back, quads and traps.


How to do the kettlebell dead clean
- Place kettlebell between your feet. To get in the starting position, push your butt back and look straight ahead.
- Clean the kettlebell to your shoulder. Clean the kettlebell to your shoulders by extending through the legs and hips as you raise the kettlebell towards your shoulder. The wrist should rotate as you do so.
- Lower the kettlebell, keeping the hamstrings loaded by keeping your back straight and your butt out.
Muscles worked
Sets and reps
For strength, do 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with 2-3 minutes of rest. For muscle growth, 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps with 90 seconds of rest. Add a little weight when you hit the top of the range on every set.
Track your kettlebell dead clean with GymPlan AI
Log every set in seconds, see your progress on charts, and ask the AI coach to build a plan around your goals and equipment. 7 days free, no card needed.
Start your free trialKettlebell Dead Clean alternatives
Exercises that train the same main muscle, including options with other equipment.
Romanian DeadliftBarbell · Intermediate
Dumbbell CleanDumbbell · Intermediate
Natural Glute Ham RaiseBodyweight · Intermediate
Smith Machine Hang Power CleanMachine · Intermediate
Kettlebell SwingKettlebell · Intermediate
Ball Leg CurlOther · BeginnerFAQ
What muscles does the kettlebell dead clean work?
It mainly works your hamstrings; your calves, glutes, lower back, quads and traps assist.
How many sets and reps of kettlebell dead clean should I do?
For strength, do 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with 2-3 minutes of rest. For muscle growth, 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps with 90 seconds of rest. Add a little weight when you hit the top of the range on every set.
Is the kettlebell dead clean good for beginners?
It suits lifters with some experience. Beginners can start with a lighter weight or one of the alternatives below.