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Kettlebell Alternating Row
A bent-over row alternating arms with two kettlebells, training the lats and mid-back while the hinge position holds isometric work for the trunk.
BackKettlebellHorizontal pull
GoLightWeight mediakettlebell-alternating-row
Demonstration coming soon
Primary
Latissimus dorsiRhomboids
Secondary
Rear deltoidsBicepsSpinal erectorsCore
Equipment
Kettlebell
Pattern
Horizontal pull
Setup
- 01Stand over two kettlebells with feet hip width apart.
- 02Hinge at the hips until the torso is around 45 degrees to the floor.
- 03Grip both handles with a neutral flat back and packed shoulders.
- 04Let both bells hang at straight arms to start.
Execution
- 01Brace the trunk and hold the hinge angle steady.
- 02Row one kettlebell to the hip by driving the elbow past the torso.
- 03Lower it fully as the other arm begins its row.
- 04Continue alternating with a smooth, even rhythm.
Checkpoints
- -Torso angle does not rise as reps accumulate.
- -Each bell reaches full arm extension at the bottom.
- -Elbow tracks close to the body, not flared wide.
- -Shoulders stay square without twisting toward the working arm.
Common mistakes
- -Rocking the torso up and down to generate momentum.
- -Rotating the trunk with each alternating pull.
- -Cutting the bottom range and never fully lengthening the lat.
- -Rounding the lower back in the hinge.
Programming notes
- -Use 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 rows per side.
- -The isometric hinge limits load; switch to single-arm supported rows for heavier work.
- -Keep a 1 second pause at the hip when strictness starts to slip.
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