Bent Press
The Bent Press is a expert compound movement that activates 7 muscle groups simultaneously. It primarily targets the Abdominals, making it one of the more efficient exercises in RepStack's 873-exercise database.
Starting position
Ending position
Muscles Worked
The abdominals handles the primary load during this movement. The glutes and hamstrings and lower back and quadriceps and shoulders and triceps assist as stabilizers throughout the range of motion.
How to Bent Press
- 1
Clean a kettlebell to your shoulder. Clean the kettlebell to your shoulders by extending through the legs and hips as you raise the kettlebell towards your shoulder. The wrist should rotate as you do so. This will be your starting position.
- 2
Begin my leaning to the side opposite the kettlebell, continuing until you are able to touch the ground with your free hand, keeping your eyes on the kettlebell. As you do so, press the weight vertically be extending through the elbow, keeping your arm perpendicular to the ground.
- 3
Return to an upright position, with the kettlebell above your head. Return the kettlebell to the shoulder and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Common Mistakes
- • Brace your core before initiating the movement — maintain tension throughout the entire range of motion.
- • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase for at least 2 seconds to maximize muscle fiber recruitment.
- • Squeeze at peak contraction for a full second — this is where most of the growth stimulus occurs.
Similar Exercises
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does the Bent Press work?
The Bent Press primarily works the Abdominals. Secondary muscles include the Glutes, Hamstrings, Lower Back, Quadriceps, Shoulders, Triceps, which assist during the movement.
Is the Bent Press good for beginners?
The Bent Press is an advanced exercise. It requires solid baseline strength and good movement control. Work through beginner and intermediate variations before attempting this one.
What equipment do I need for the Bent Press?
You need kettlebells to perform the Bent Press. Most commercial gyms will have this available.
Track Your Progress
RepStack logs every set, calculates your e1RM, and coaches progressive overload — automatically.