Exercise Comparison
Alternating Kettlebell Press vs Crucifix
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Alternating Kettlebell Press
Only in Crucifix
Instructions
Alternating Kettlebell Press
Clean two kettlebells to your shoulders. Clean the kettlebells to your shoulders by extending through the legs and hips as you pull the kettlebells towards your shoulders. Rotate your wrists as you do so.
Press one directly overhead by extending through the elbow, turning it so the palm faces forward while holding the other kettlebell stationary .
Lower the pressed kettlebell to the starting position and immediately press with your other arm.
Crucifix
In the crucifix, you statically hold weights out to the side for time. While the event can be practiced using dumbbells, it is best to practice with one of the various implements used, such as axes and hammers, as it feels different.
Begin standing, and raise your arms out to the side holding the implements. Your arms should be parallel to the ground. In competition, judges or sensors are used to let you know when you break parallel. Hold for as long as you can. Typically, the weights should be heavy enough that you fail in 30-60 seconds.
Verdict
Both exercises target the shoulders. Alternating Kettlebell Press is a intermediate exercise using kettlebells, while Crucifix is beginner and uses other. Choose Crucifix if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Alternating Kettlebell Press for a greater challenge. Alternating Kettlebell Press is a compound movement working multiple joints, making it better for overall strength. Crucifix isolates the target muscle for focused development.