Where exactly should the kettlebells sit during the lift?

The bells should rest in the 'V' of your arm, nestled between your forearm and bicep, with your fists close together near your chin.

Why does this feel harder than a barbell back squat?

The anterior loading shifts the center of gravity forward, requiring significantly more engagement from your core and upper back to stay upright.

Can I do this exercise with just one kettlebell?

Yes, that is called a goblet squat or a single-arm rack squat, but the double version allows for higher loading and greater demand on the respiratory muscles.

How to Do the Double Kettlebell Front Squat

Master the double kettlebell front squat with our expert guide to building glute strength, core stability, and functional lower-body power.

How to Perform

Clean two kettlebells to the rack position, holding them at chest height with elbows tucked and wrists neutral.
Position your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart with your toes pointed slightly outward.
Inhale deeply into your abdomen to create internal pressure and brace your core for stability.
Lower your hips back and down while keeping your chest upright and the kettlebells pinned closely to your body.
Descend until your thighs are at least parallel to the floor, ensuring your knees track in line with your toes.
Drive through your mid-foot to return to a standing position, exhaling as you reach the top of the movement.
Maintain a tall posture at the top without leaning back or losing tension in your glutes.

Common Mistakes

Allowing the elbows to flare outward, which pulls the torso forward.
Rounding the lower back during the bottom portion of the squat.
Letting the weight shift entirely onto the toes rather than the mid-foot.
Losing the vertical forearm alignment in the rack position.

Muscles Worked

Primary movers

Glutes

Stabilizers

Quads
Hamstrings
Core
Upper Back

Related Guides

Glutes · Legs