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Kettlebell Plyo Push-up

The kettlebell plyo push-up is an explosive push-up variation performed with hands on kettlebells, targeting the chest, triceps, shoulders, and core. It requires significant upper body strength, stability, and coordination, as well as explosive power to lift the hands off the kettlebells and land safely.

Quick Facts

Body PartsChest
Target MusclesPectorals
Secondary MusclesTriceps, Shoulders, and Core
EquipmentKettlebell
DifficultyAdvanced
Exercise TypePlyometrics
BilateralYes

How to Do Kettlebell Plyo Push-up

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Kettlebell Plyo Push-up with proper form and technique.

  1. Start in a high plank position with your hands on the kettlebells, shoulder-width apart.
  2. Lower your chest towards the ground, keeping your elbows close to your body.
  3. Push through your hands explosively, lifting your hands off the kettlebells and extending your arms fully.
  4. Land softly back on the kettlebells and immediately lower your chest back down for the next repetition.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

Understanding which muscles Kettlebell Plyo Push-up 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.

Pectorals

Secondary Muscles

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

TricepsShouldersCore

Benefits of Kettlebell Plyo Push-up

Incorporating Kettlebell Plyo Push-up into your workout routine offers numerous advantages for strength, muscle development, and overall fitness.

  • Pectorals Development: Kettlebell Plyo Push-up directly targets and strengthens the Pectorals, promoting muscle growth and improved functional strength.
  • Secondary Muscle Engagement: This exercise also works the Triceps, Shoulders, 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.
  • Explosive Power: Plyometric exercises develop fast-twitch muscle fibers, improving speed, power, 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 Plyo Push-up safely is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring long-term progress.

  • Warm Up Properly: Before performing Kettlebell Plyo Push-up, complete 5-10 minutes of light cardio followed by dynamic stretches targeting the Pectorals 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 Pectorals 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 Plyo Push-up, 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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