For hybrid & fitness racing
For hybrid & fitness racing, the two are close. Bulgarian split squat rates slightly higher: more injury protection.
Kettlebell swing is easier to learn and fit in.
Both are good choices that build different things for hybrid & fitness racing, so a plan can use both.
The research score comes from these, scored by hand from the studies. Lifter scores appear once an exercise has 10 ratings. How scores work
Bulgarian Split Squat. Single-leg strength for lunges and running.
Kettlebell Swing. Hip power and grip endurance in a conditioning format.
For glute growth, Bulgarian split squat rates well ahead on our research criteria: more stretch, more of the work on the glutes. Kettlebell swing is easier on the joints.
For hybrid & fitness racing, the two are close. Bulgarian split squat rates slightly higher: more injury protection. Kettlebell swing is easier to learn and fit in. Both are good choices that build different things for hybrid & fitness racing, so a plan can use both.
About the same: both take some practice.
Bulgarian split squat needs dumbbells and a bench, so a home gym covers it. Kettlebell swing needs a kettlebell, so a home gym covers it.
Bulgarian split squat: it rates Strong for injury protection in our research rubric, against Good for kettlebell swing.