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Kettlebell Double Snatch

The kettlebell double snatch is a dynamic, full-body movement that targets the shoulders (delts) and also engages the trapezius, forearms, and core. It requires explosive power, coordination, and proper technique to perform safely and effectively.

Quick Facts

Body PartsShoulders
Target MusclesDelts
Secondary MusclesTrapezius, Forearms, and Core
EquipmentKettlebell
DifficultyAdvanced
Exercise TypeStrength
BilateralYes

How to Do Kettlebell Double Snatch

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Kettlebell Double Snatch with proper form and technique.

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in each hand at arm's length in front of your thighs.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips, keeping your back flat and chest up.
  3. In one explosive motion, extend your hips, knees, and ankles, and simultaneously pull the kettlebells up towards your shoulders.
  4. As the kettlebells reach shoulder level, rotate your wrists and punch the kettlebells overhead, fully extending your arms.
  5. Lower the kettlebells back down to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

Understanding which muscles Kettlebell Double Snatch targets helps you integrate it effectively into your training program.

Target Muscles

These are the main muscles responsible for performing the movement and receive the greatest training stimulus.

Delts

Secondary Muscles

These muscles assist in the movement and receive secondary training benefits.

TrapeziusForearmsCore

Benefits of Kettlebell Double Snatch

Incorporating Kettlebell Double Snatch into your workout routine offers numerous advantages for strength, muscle development, and overall fitness.

  • Delts Development: Kettlebell Double Snatch directly targets and strengthens the Delts, promoting muscle growth and improved functional strength.
  • Secondary Muscle Engagement: This exercise also works the Trapezius, Forearms, and Core, providing additional training stimulus without extra exercises.
  • Dynamic Strength: Kettlebell exercises develop functional strength and power while improving grip strength and core stability.
  • Functional Strength: Strength exercises like Kettlebell Double Snatch build real-world strength that transfers to daily activities and athletic performance.
  • Advanced Training Stimulus: This challenging exercise provides the intensity needed for experienced athletes to continue making progress.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Performing Kettlebell Double Snatch safely is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring long-term progress.

  • Warm Up Properly: Before performing Kettlebell Double Snatch, complete 5-10 minutes of light cardio followed by dynamic stretches targeting the Delts and surrounding muscles.
  • Prioritize Form Over Weight: Never sacrifice proper technique for heavier weights. Poor form significantly increases injury risk and reduces the exercise's effectiveness.
  • Maintain Grip Security: Ensure your hands are dry or use chalk if needed. A kettlebell slipping mid-movement can cause serious injury.
  • Shoulder Protection: Avoid flaring your elbows excessively, which can strain the shoulder joint. Keep your shoulders packed and stable.
  • Respect Your Range of Motion: Work within your current mobility limits. Gradually improve flexibility over time rather than forcing deeper positions.
  • Don't Hold Your Breath: Maintain consistent breathing throughout the exercise. Exhale during the exertion phase and inhale during the easier phase.
  • Know When to Stop: End your set when you can no longer maintain proper form. Training to absolute failure on every set increases injury risk.
  • Allow Adequate Recovery: The Delts typically need 48-72 hours to recover after intense training. Avoid training the same muscle group on consecutive days.

Tracking Your Progress

To make consistent gains with Kettlebell Double Snatch, track these metrics during your workouts:

Sets

Track the number of sets you complete. Most training programs recommend 3-5 sets per exercise.

Reps

Record your repetitions per set. Adjust rep ranges based on your goals: 1-5 for strength, 6-12 for hypertrophy, 12+ for endurance.

Weight

Log the weight used for progressive overload. Aim to gradually increase weight while maintaining proper form.

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