How to do the Kettlebell Halo
Primary: Shoulders · also works Core, Upper Back, Triceps. Also called: halo, around the head kettlebell.
Step by step
- 1
Hold the kettlebell upside down by the horns at chest height, elbows tucked.
- 2
Circle the bell around your head: past one ear, behind the head, past the other ear and back to the front.
- 3
Keep the bell close to your head and the elbows bent throughout.
- 4
Complete all reps in one direction, then reverse.
- 5
Stand tall with the abs braced so the torso stays still.
Coaching cues
- Tight circle, slow and smooth
- Ribs down; move the arms, not the spine
- Keep the shoulders down away from the ears
Common mistakes
- Leaning back as the bell passes behind the head
- Making the circle too wide
- Rushing the movement
Sets, reps and where it fits
Muscle
3–4 × 8–12
rest 60–90 s
Strength
not a strength lift
use for assistance
Fat loss
3 × 10–15
rest 45–60 s
Kettlebell Halo alternatives
Same movement pattern, different equipment or difficulty. Swap one-for-one in any plan.
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Kettlebell Halo work?
Primary: Shoulders. Secondary: Shoulders, Core, Upper Back, Triceps
How many sets and reps of Kettlebell Halo should I do?
For muscle: 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps. For strength on compound lifts: 4–5 sets of 4–6. Rest 60–120 seconds between sets.
What can I do instead of the Kettlebell Halo?
Same movement pattern, different equipment: Arm Circles, Kettlebell Upright Row, Dumbbell Lateral Raise, Band Front Raise, Band Lateral Raise, Band Upright Row.
Is the Kettlebell Halo good for beginners?
Yes. It is a beginner-friendly movement; start light, master the steps above and add load gradually.