Exercise guide
Open Palm Kettlebell Clean
The Open Palm Kettlebell Clean is an advanced release-and-catch drill. The bell is accelerated upward, released, caught by its body in both palms, released forward, and then recaught by the handle.
Training context
How the Open-Palm Clean Differs
Unlike a normal clean, the kettlebell is intentionally released twice. This adds timing and hand coordination but also creates a significant risk of dropping the bell.
Use a very light kettlebell in an open area and keep all bystanders clear. A standard two-hand clean is safer and more appropriate for most strength training.
Technique overview
Keep every release low and controlled
Drive the kettlebell upward with the hips and release it only when nearly weightless. Receive the bell softly in both palms, guide it forward, and recatch the handle with both hands. Keep the feet outside the drop path and stop as soon as timing becomes uncertain.
Treat this as an overview and use a range, pace, and setup you can control.