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Kettlebell Forearm Extension

Beginner
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A forearm isolation exercise using a kettlebell to target the wrist extensors for grip strength and elbow stability; commonly performed seated with the forearm supported.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell, Flat Bench

Difficulty

1/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Forearms

Popularity Score

4

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

Yes

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Forearms

10/10

Extensors

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on a bench or chair with your forearm resting on your thigh or the bench edge, wrist hanging freely. Hold the kettlebell handle with an overhand grip.

  1. Lower the kettlebell by flexing the wrist downward fully.
  2. Extend the wrist upward to lift the weight as high as possible.
  3. Squeeze the forearm muscles at the top position.
  4. Lower the weight back to the start under control.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Knuckles to ceiling
  • Keep forearm flat
  • Isolate the wrist
  • Control the drop

Breathing

Exhale as you extend the wrist upward; inhale as you lower the weight.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

Move from full wrist flexion (knuckles down) to full extension (knuckles up) while keeping the forearm flat.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Start with light weight
  • Stop if sharp wrist pain occurs
  • Ensure secure grip on handle

Spotting

Not recommended; use free hand to assist if necessary.

Common Mistakes

  • Lifting the elbow
  • Using arm momentum
  • Incomplete range of motion
  • Rushing the eccentric

When to Avoid

  • Acute wrist injury
  • Elbow tendonitis

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate wrist extension range

Build Up First

  • Basic grip control

Also known as

Kettlebell Reverse Wrist Curl, Kettlebell Wrist Extension, Palms-Down Wrist Curl

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