Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise

Easy
Unilateral

Expert Advice

The rear delt works hardest near the bottom of this arc. Avoid resting the kettlebell on the floor between reps.

How-to-do Steps

  1. Lie on your side on the floor with your legs stacked.
  2. Bend your lower arm and support your head with that hand.
  3. Grip the kettlebell handle with your upper hand, elbow slightly bent and arm forward.
  4. Sweep your upper arm upward until your hand is above your shoulder.
  5. Lower the kettlebell slowly along the same arc, keeping your elbow bend unchanged.
  6. Complete the prescribed reps on this side, then switch sides and repeat.

Common Mistakes

  • Torso rolls backwardFix: keep your hips and shoulders stacked as your arm moves.
  • Wrist folds under the kettlebellFix: keep your knuckles aligned with your forearm.

Coach Cues

Keep your shoulders stackedKeep that elbow bendLower slowly

Short reminders to keep in mind during every set.

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Muscles Worked

Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise primarily targets the Shoulders, with Strength mechanics using Kettlebell. Understanding muscle activation patterns helps you focus on proper engagement and maximize training effectiveness.

Primary
Shoulders
Shoulders100%
Equipment
Kettlebell
Kettlebell
Exercise Type
Strength
100%Shoulders

Why Level 2?

Easy

Floor support simplifies balance, but the kettlebell arc requires shoulder and wrist control.

Technique
Stability
Strength
Mobility
Impact
Learning

Sets & Reps Guidance

Beginner3 x 12-15
Intermediate3 x 10-12
Advanced4 x 8-10

Variations

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise work?
Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise primarily targets the Shoulders. It is classified as a Strength exercise performed with Kettlebell.
How many sets and reps should I do for Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise?
For beginners, start with 3 sets of 12-15. Intermediate lifters can do 3 sets of 10-12. Advanced athletes can push to 4 sets of 8-10. Adjust based on your goals and recovery capacity.
Is Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise suitable for beginners?
Yes, Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise is rated as a beginner-friendly exercise, making it an excellent starting point. Focus on mastering proper form before increasing intensity or load.
What are the most common mistakes when doing Kettlebell Side-Lying Rear Delt Raise?
Torso rolls backward: keep your hips and shoulders stacked as your arm moves. Wrist folds under the kettlebell: keep your knuckles aligned with your forearm.