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Kettlebell training on the next level: Clean, Turkish Get-Up & Deadlift with two kettlebells

Kettlebell training is far more than just a trend: it’s one of the most effective methods for functional strength, stability, and athleticism. At kettlebell.eu, quality, technique, and expert coaching are our top priorities. Of particular importance is our network of qualified trainers in the kettlebell.eu MAP (Movement & Athlete Program), who teach proper technique and sustainable training programs.

In this article, we present three essential exercises—including a new variation for advanced users—and explain what really matters technically:

  • Kettlebell Clean
  • Turkish Get-Up
  • Deadlift with two kettlebells

The focus is on clean execution, training benefits, and practical application.

Why technique is crucial in kettlebell training

Kettlebell exercises are highly functional. They don’t train isolated muscles, but rather complex movement patterns. Therefore, errors in technique have a greater impact than with classic machine exercises.

This is precisely where the kettlebell.eu trainer network comes in. The certified coaches of the kettlebell.eu MAP pay attention to:

  • Correct hip movement (hip hinge)
  • Stable shoulder position
  • Clean rack and overhead stance
  • Controlled breathing Progression instead of overexertion

Anyone who takes kettlebell training seriously shouldn’t just focus on lifting weights, but also on developing movement quality.

1. Kettlebell Clean – The Underestimated Basic Exercise

The kettlebell clean is one of the absolute basic exercises, even though it’s often seen as an “intermediate movement” to the press or jerk. In reality, it’s a strength and technique exercise in its own right.

Which muscles does the clean train?

  • Glutes
  • Hamstrings
  • Core
  • Erector spinae
  • Shoulders (stabilize)
  • Forearms and grip strength

Technical Key Points

  • Start from a hip hinge (not a squat!)
  • Explosive hip extension
  • The kettlebell is not swung upwards, but rather brought into the rack position in a controlled manner
  • No impact on the forearm – clean rotation around the hand

Why the Clean is Important

The clean forms the basis for:

  • Press
  • Jerk
  • Front Squat
  • Complex Kettlebell Flows

Without a clean clean, there is no efficient overhead work.

2. Turkish Get-Up (TGU) – Perfect Full-Body Control

The Turkish Get-Up (TGU) is one of the most technically demanding and effective kettlebell exercises.

Why is the TGU so valuable?

It trains:

  • Shoulder stability
  • Core strength
  • Mobility
  • Hip control
  • Coordination
  • Full-body strength

The movement sequence in brief:

  1. Lie on your back – Hold the kettlebell overhead with one arm
  2. Support yourself on your elbow
  3. Rest on your hand
  4. Lift your hips
  5. Draw your leg under
  6. Stand upright
  7. Repeat the movement in a controlled manner backwards

Key technical points:

  • Keep your eyes on the kettlebell
  • Actively stabilize your shoulder
  • Move slowly and with control
  • Consciously perform each phase

The TGU is not a speed test, but a stability and control exercise.

3. Deadlift with Two Kettlebells

A new, more challenging variation:

The kettlebell deadlift with two kettlebells – one in each hand – in a narrow stance.

  • This variation increases:
  • core stability
  • grip strength
  • symmetry in strength development
  • the load on the posterior chain

Difference from the classic deadlift

In a narrow stance:

  • feet approximately hip-width apart
  • the kettlebells are positioned to the sides of the feet
  • the center of gravity remains closer to the body

Technical focus:

  • hip hinge
  • keep the back neutral
  • actively pull the shoulders back and down
  • weight over the heels
  • maintain core engagement

This variation is ideal for:

  • advanced lifters
  • athletes
  • strength building with a focus on symmetry
  • a complement to heavy swings

Training Integration: How to Combine the Exercises

A Possible Training Scheme:

Technique Focus Session:

  • 3×5 Clean (per side)
  • 2×3 TGU (per side)
  • 3×8 Deadlift with 2 Kettlebells

Strength Focus Session:

  • Clean + Front Squat Complex
  • Heavy Deadlift
  • TGU as a Finisher

Progression should always be controlled – ideally under the guidance of a certified trainer.

Why Kettlebell Quality Matters

Especially with cleans, Turkish Get-Ups (TGUs), and heavy deadlifts, the quality of the kettlebell is crucial:

  • Consistent handle diameter
  • Clean workmanship
  • Optimal weight distribution
  • Competition-ready dimensions (competition kettlebells)

At kettlebell.eu, you’ll find high-quality kettlebells for ambitious training – designed for performance, not compromise.

Conclusion

The clean is a fundamental exercise.

The Turkish Get-Up is a ultimate test of stability.

The deadlift with two kettlebells in a narrow stance brings a new level of intensity to your training.

Those who train with proper technique and adhere to clear progression will be rewarded with increased strength, stability, and athleticism.

And those who truly want to take their training to the next level should seek support from qualified coaches at kettlebell.eu MAP. Because good technique isn’t a matter of chance, but the result of knowledge and experience.