Mighty Logo
Mighty
← Back to library
Last updated February 2, 2026
Media unavailable
abs

Sit-Up Press (Kettlebell)

Lie on your back holding a kettlebell at your chest. Perform a sit-up, and at the top, press the kettlebell overhead. Lower the weight and your body under control.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Moderate
Mechanic
Compound
Force
Push
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Moderate
Hypertrophy
Very High
Calorie Burn
Medium

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

abs

Secondary

front shoulders

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

kettlebell

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Lying

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Lie on your back on a mat with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
    • Hold a kettlebell with both hands, resting it on your chest.
  2. Step 2Position Your Body
    • Engage your core by pulling your belly button towards your spine.
    • Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid tensing your neck.
  3. Step 3Perform the Sit-Up
    • Press your lower back into the mat as you lift your upper body towards your knees.
    • Use your core muscles to pull yourself up, keeping the kettlebell close to your chest.
  4. Step 4Press the Kettlebell
    • Once you reach the top of the sit-up, extend your arms overhead, pressing the kettlebell up.
    • Ensure your arms are straight and your wrists are aligned with your elbows.
  5. Step 5Lower the Kettlebell
    • Lower the kettlebell back to your chest as you begin to lower your upper body back to the mat.
    • Control the movement to avoid any sudden drops.
  6. Step 6Return to Starting Position
    • Lower your back to the mat while keeping your core engaged.
    • Prepare for the next repetition by resetting your position.
  7. Step 7Repeat
    • Continue performing the sit-up press for the desired number of repetitions, maintaining good form throughout.
  8. Step 8Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully place the kettlebell down beside you.
    • Sit up slowly and take a moment to stretch your core muscles.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025