Kettlebell Halo

A step-by-step form guide from the Ægir Iron exercise library: how to do the lift, what to watch for, and the muscles it trains.

HOW TO PERFORM

The Setup: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Grip the kettlebell upside down by the horns(the sides of the handle) at chest height. Engage your core and squeeze your glutes to create a rock-solid foundation.
The First Phase: Pass the kettlebell over your right shoulder. Keep the bell as close to your body as possible without touching it. Your lead arm should guide the weight backward, stacking it over your elbow joint.
The Back Pass: Guide the kettlebell behind the nape of your neck. Let the bottom of the bell point slightly down, which naturally drives your elbows up toward the ceiling and stretches the triceps and lats.
The Return: Bring the kettlebell over your left shoulder and pull it smoothly back down to the starting position at your chest.
Switch Directions: You can complete all reps in one direction before switching, or alternate directions with every circle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
Moving Your Head: Keep your head and neck entirely still. Move the kettlebell around your head, rather than ducking or bobbing your head to dodge the bell.
Arching Your Lower Back: If you flare your ribs or lean back, the weight is likely too heavy. Keep your midsection braced to prevent lower-back strain.
Going Too Heavy: The halo demands subtle shoulder articulation. Pick a light-to-moderate bell (typically 5 to 15 lbs or 4 to 8 kg to start) so you can move slowly and smoothly.

These versions use the general form guide for the movement:

Log it in Ægir Iron to track your PRs and estimated 1RM, and to see the sets each muscle gets every week. Free for individual lifters.