How do you do the Side Bend (Kettlebell)?

Stand tall with your feet about hip to shoulder width apart and a kettlebell in one hand at your side. Put your free hand on your hip and look straight ahead. Bend sideways toward the kettlebell, lowering it down your leg, and pause at a comfortable depth. Use your obliques to pull back up to standing, without bending past upright. Finish your reps on that side, then switch the kettlebell to the other hand and repeat.

What muscles does the Side Bend (Kettlebell) work?

Mainly the obliques, with help from the abs and forearms.

What are common Side Bend (Kettlebell) mistakes?

Rounding forward or leaning back instead of bending to the side. Letting your hips slide sideways. Holding a kettlebell in each hand. Using momentum to come back up.

Side Bend (Kettlebell): how to do it, form cues and muscles worked

How to do it

Stand tall with your feet about hip to shoulder width apart and a kettlebell in one hand at your side.
Put your free hand on your hip and look straight ahead.
Bend sideways toward the kettlebell, lowering it down your leg, and pause at a comfortable depth.
Use your obliques to pull back up to standing, without bending past upright.
Finish your reps on that side, then switch the kettlebell to the other hand and repeat.

Key cues

Stand tall, arm long
Free hand on your hip
Bend straight to the side
Hips stay still
Pull up with your obliques, no momentum

Common mistakes

Rounding forward or leaning back instead of bending to the side
Letting your hips slide sideways
Holding a kettlebell in each hand
Using momentum to come back up

Muscles worked

Primary: Obliques
Secondary: Abs and forearms

Equipment

Kettlebell.

References

StrengthLog: Dumbbell Side Bend
BarBend: Dumbbell Side Bend