Exercise guide
Kettlebell Angled Press
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Back
- Shoulders
- Upper arms
- Waist
The Kettlebell Angled Press targets the upper chest and shoulders while emphasizing serratus anterior activation for improved scapular health. By pressing at an upward diagonal, you reduce shoulder joint stress compared to a vertical press while maximizing tension on the deltoids and triceps.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding the kettlebell by the horns (the sides of the handle) at chest height.
- Lean your torso forward slightly at a 10-15 degree angle while maintaining a flat back and braced core.
- Tuck your elbows close to your ribcage to create a stable pressing base.
- Engage your glutes and quads to create a rigid foundation.
How to do it
- Exhale as you press the kettlebell forward and upward at a 45-degree angle away from your body.
- Fully extend your arms at the top, 'reaching' forward with your shoulders to maximize serratus anterior engagement.
- Inhale as you slowly lower the kettlebell back to the starting position under strict control.
- Maintain a controlled 2-0-2-0 tempo, avoiding any momentum or bouncing at the chest.
Form checklist
- Keep your core braced to prevent the lower back from arching as you press.
- Ensure the kettlebell travels in a straight diagonal line rather than an arc.
- Keep your neck neutral and chin tucked; do not reach forward with your head.
- Maintain a firm, symmetrical grip on the horns to ensure even force distribution.
Pro tips
- Focus on the 'reach' at the peak of the movement to feel your shoulder blades wrap around your ribcage.
- Keep your forearms aligned with the path of the press to maximize mechanical advantage and tricep recruitment.
Make it harder
- Perform the exercise from a half-kneeling position to increase the demand on your core and hip stabilizers.
- Add a 3-second isometric hold at the point of full extension to increase time under tension.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the kettlebell angled press work?
- The kettlebell angled press primarily targets the serratus anterior and trapezius, and also works the abs and obliques as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the kettlebell angled press?
- The kettlebell angled press uses kettlebell.
- Is the kettlebell angled press good for beginners?
- The kettlebell angled press is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.