Exercise guide
Kettlebell Pirate Ships
Kettlebell Pirate Ships are an uncommon side-to-side swinging drill performed with both hands on one kettlebell. The bell rises toward head height as the torso and hips turn from one side to the other. The shoulders guide the bell while the abdominals help control rotation.
Training context
Keeping Kettlebell Pirate Ships Controlled
Because this is a swinging movement near the head, load and speed should remain conservative. The kettlebell must follow a predictable arc without pulling the arms or torso out of position.
Use open floor space and a secure grip. A lighter bell is appropriate until the route can be reversed smoothly on both sides.
Technique overview
Turn with the bell instead of pulling only with the arms
Take a wide stance and hold the kettlebell with both hands. Guide it toward one side as the hips and torso rotate, allowing it to rise no higher than the position you can control. Reverse the arc toward the other side without dropping suddenly. Stop if the bell approaches the face or the feet lose contact.
Treat this as an overview and use a range, pace, and setup you can control.