Self-directed kinematic adjustments when learning the kettlebell swing in young adults

The kettlebell swing is a complex exercise shown to provide cardiovascular and strength benefits. However, novice kinematic pattern differences might limit the effectiveness of the kettlebell swing to fully realise those benefits. The purpose of this study was to assess how novices self-directed their learning of the kettlebell swing using only an instructional video. Twelve young adults performed kettlebell swings sets over one week. We captured kinematic data of their first sets without practice, sets within-day following practice, and sets one week later following practice. The subjects received no augmented feedback. Ankle, knee, hip, and shoulder mean and variability kinematics were compared. In addition, the relative timing of peak sagittal plane angular velocity of the hip and shoulder was evaluated to determine whether the hips led to the shoulders. Within-day subjects reduced hip and shoulder peak extension, knee and hip peak flexion, and hip peak flexion velocity. Between-day subjects reduced mean hip peak flexion and range of motion, as well as peak knee flexion. Our results suggest novices prioritised improving consistency early in practice and then adjusted their kinematic pattern over the week. Moreover, most subjects transitioned to the hips leading shoulders, suggesting this is a perceivable coordination pattern by intrinsic feedback.