Why Learn Kettlebell Terminology
Kettlebell training comes with its own vocabulary. Understanding the key terms helps you follow programs, communicate with coaches, and get the most out of instructional content. Whether you are reading a workout plan or watching a tutorial, knowing the glossary ensures you perform each movement correctly and safely.
Rack Position
The kettlebell rests on the back of your forearm with your elbow tucked close to your ribcage and your wrist neutral. This is the starting point for presses, squats, and cleans.
Hip Hinge
A fundamental movement pattern where you push your hips backward with minimal knee bend. It is the basis of swings, deadlifts, and cleans.
Ballistic
An explosive movement where the kettlebell is propelled by momentum generated from the hips. Swings, snatches, and cleans are all ballistic exercises.
Grind
A slow, controlled strength movement performed without momentum. Presses, squats, and Turkish get-ups are grinds.
Lockout
The fully extended position at the top of a press or snatch, where the elbow is locked and the shoulder is stable overhead.
Hardstyle
A style of kettlebell training emphasizing maximal tension, explosive power, and safety. It was popularized by Pavel Tsatsouline and focuses on strength over endurance.
Girevoy Sport (GS)
The competitive kettlebell sport involving high-repetition snatches, cleans, and jerks performed for ten-minute sets without putting the bell down.
Pood
A Russian unit of weight equal to approximately 16 kilograms or 35 pounds. Kettlebells are traditionally measured in poods.
Bell
Informal shorthand for kettlebell.
Horns
The vertical sides of the kettlebell handle. You often grip the horns during goblet squats and halos.
Common Abbreviations
- EMOM: Every Minute on the Minute
- AMRAP: As Many Rounds as Possible
- TGU: Turkish Get-Up
- OH: Overhead
- KB: Kettlebell
How to Use This Glossary
Bookmark this page and return to it whenever you encounter unfamiliar terminology in a kettlebell program. As you progress, these terms will become second nature, and your understanding of training theory will deepen.
Safety Note
Never attempt a movement simply because you recognize the name. Always study proper technique before loading a new exercise, and consider hiring a certified instructor for hands-on guidance.