The Kettlebell, at first glance, can be an intimidating piece of gym equipment, but with the right coach and continued practice the benefits are endless! Their rise in popularity is more than a fad. Kettlebells offer training versatility, and portability. Below are just a few of the reasons why you should be training with kettlebells and some tips when you’re first getting started.
A Kettlebell is a total body gym. Particularly useful when you don’t have access to a gym. Relatively small, easy to store, virtually indestructible.
A Kettlebell moves differently than any other kind of loaded piece of equipment. It’s basically a cannonball with a handle. It has an offset center of gravity (unlike a dumbbell which is balanced). We can use this weight distribution to our training advantage.
A Kettlebell can be a substitute for many strength exercises we normally train with dumbbells. i.e. rows, presses, deadlifts, etc. But because of its shape and thicker handle it offers a unique challenge to grip strength.
The superpower of a Kettlebell is its versatility. We know kettlebells can be used for strength training but they can also be used for ballistic exercises like the swing, clean, and snatch. Studies have shown that kettlebell training can significantly boost aerobic capacity, while also improving core strength and dynamic balance.These lifts allow us to generate a lot of power from our feet to our hips and require stabilization and support from many other muscles in the body.
Kettlebell training can be a beneficial tool to increase range of motion and improve joint mobility and stability. One example is the Kettlebell Arm Bar. The Arm Bar is a great stability and mobility exercise for the shoulder girdle. And can aid in exercises like, overhead press, the clean, snatch, and getup, to name a few. Most importantly, it can improve your everyday activities like reaching overhead, or opening a heavy door.
Because of everything above, Kettlebells require us to be more mindful during our workouts; more connected to our breath. In this way, when we work with kettlebells, it’s more like skill practice, than just a “workout”.
3 Things to Remember
1) Practice > Perfection
It’s not about looking a certain way or about getting the most repetitions of an
exercise. Focus on form, your breath, your body, and on the movement.
2) Progress Doesn’t Happen Overnight
It’s more useful to think of this training as a martial arts, or dance, or like learning a new language. It’s going to take time and practice to master kettlebell skills.
3) Listen to your body! Be kind to yourself!
You may get frustrated as you practice with kettlebells. Be kind and give yourself grace.
Ready to start kettlebell training? You can purchase our 4 Week Kettlebell Basics Program through our app here!
