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Kettlebell Starfish Reach

Intermediate
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A dynamic core exercise using a kettlebell held overhead that targets rectus abdominis and obliques to build anti-extension strength and stability; ideal for intermediate core training.

About Exercise

Equipment

Kettlebell

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs, Obliques

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Biceps

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Strength
Stability
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Obliques

8/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Hip Flexors

6/10

Iliopsoas

Shoulders

4/10

Anterior Delts

Biceps

3/10

Long Head

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Lie face up on the floor in a starfish position with legs and arms spread wide. Hold a kettlebell with both hands behind your head, palms up, and press lower back into the floor.

  1. Contract abs and tuck chin to chest.
  2. Crunch upper body up while bringing arms and kettlebell forward.
  3. Simultaneously lift and bring legs together toward center.
  4. Reach kettlebell toward knees or shins at top.
  5. Squeeze abs briefly at peak contraction.
  6. Lower upper body and spread arms back behind head controlled.
  7. Spread legs out to starting starfish position.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Press low back down
  • Tuck chin to chest
  • Lead with arms to knees
  • Squeeze abs at top
  • Control the descent
  • Keep movements smooth

Breathing

Exhale as you crunch up and reach; inhale as you lower back down. Brace core throughout.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

From full extension on floor to upper body crunched with kettlebell reaching knees or shins, legs lifted and together; maintain neutral spine without arching.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute lower back pain present
  • Start with lighter weight or bodyweight
  • Stop if pain in back or neck occurs
  • Maintain neutral spine to prevent strain
  • Use controlled speed to avoid momentum
  • Consult professional if beginner

Spotting

Not required; perform solo on floor with space. Use lighter weight if needed for form check.

Common Mistakes

  • Arching lower back
  • Jerky or fast movements
  • Not engaging core fully
  • Dropping kettlebell uncontrolled
  • Lifting only upper body without legs
  • Rounding shoulders forward

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Neck strain or pain
  • Recent abdominal surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate hip flexion range
  • Shoulder overhead mobility
  • Basic spinal flexion control

Build Up First

  • Master basic crunches
  • Core engagement proficiency
  • Kettlebell handling basics

Also known as

Kettlebell Double Reach, Starfish Crunch with Kettlebell

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