30/10/2026
FCMAX BUILDING COMPLEX — Two Ways to Build Strength and Conditioning
Our subscriber Marco Scarpellini shared an interesting kettlebell training method he uses with his clients: the FCMAX Building Complex.
What makes this approach interesting is that the same structure can be adapted for two different training goals. One version focuses on strength and grinding movements, while the other uses more explosive exercises to increase training density and conditioning.
1. FCMAX Building Complex — Strength Focus
This version uses mainly grind exercises such as Clean, Press, Squat, Lunge, Thruster and Row.
The idea is to start with five repetitions of one movement, then gradually introduce new exercises while reducing the repetitions of the previous ones.
For example:
5 Clean
4 Clean + 1 Press
3 Clean + 1 Press + 1 Squat
2 Clean + 1 Press + 1 Squat + 1 Thruster
1 Clean + 1 Press + 1 Squat + 1 Thruster + 1 Gorilla Row
Once the sequence is completed, the same pattern starts again with the Press.
The structure allows you to combine several strength movements into one continuous complex, with the focus on controlled repetitions and quality ex*****on.
2. FCMAX Building Complex — Conditioning Focus
The second version uses a ten-repetition structure and more ballistic exercises, such as Swings, Sn**ches and Push Presses.
The goal is to increase training density and place greater emphasis on cardiovascular conditioning.
Example:
10 Clean
8 Clean + 2 Swing
6 Clean + 2 Swing + 2 Sn**ch
4 Clean + 2 Swing + 2 Sn**ch + 2 Push Press
2 Clean + 2 Swing + 2 Sn**ch + 2 Push Press + 2 Squat
As the complex progresses, new movements are added and the repetitions are redistributed between exercises.
The result is a more dynamic sequence that combines several kettlebell movements while keeping the workout moving.
What makes this method useful?
The FCMAX Building Complex isn't limited to one fixed exercise list. Marco adapts the movements, repetitions, kettlebell weight and rest periods according to the training goal and the athlete's fitness level.
The same basic structure can therefore be used for strength-focused sessions or conditioning work, depending on how the complex is programmed.
Thanks to Marco Scarpellini for sharing this method with our community!
It's always interesting to see how coaches organize familiar kettlebell exercises into different training systems.
