Strength training and conditioning (cardio) are often seen as separate things. As in … today I’ll work on my heavy back squat … but tomorrow I’ll try beach sprints. That’s all good. But when it’s a case of being strapped for time, wouldn’t it be great to cover all the bases in the same workout?
Enter, the humble kettlebel!. Using one or two kettlebells doesn’t require any assemnbly, special preparation or a lot of space. They’re an awesome bit of kit. They’re used everyday, right across the fitness spectrum to deliver the goods.
Kettlebells have been around since the 18th century; having first become popular in Russia around that time. The fact that kettlebell training has been popular the world over since then, proves that there’s something special about this style of workout.
Perfect for home workouts
The weight in a kettlebell isn’t distributed evenly. This forces you to work harder when using them in order to stabilize yourself when moving them. This means the core is going to get lit up big-time! Kettlebells are also great for improving balance and coordination. There are lots of small muscles that perform those functions and they don’t always get a look in, if all you do is bench press and bicep-curls. From a functional fitness standpoint kettlebells are awesome! You can buy one pretty much anywhere and brands don’t matter. The cheaper product is just as good as the ‘premium’ product. After all … what is there to break?
How do kettlebells make a person ‘fitter’?
Kettlebell training improves fitness for sure. But we can be a bit more specific when talking about the benefits. There are observable strength gains, and improvements to overall conditioning to be had. Kettlebells come in many different weights and as you get stronger, the kettlebells you use will get progressively heavier. You’ll work harder – and in doing so, your overall conditioning will also dramatically improve. Many kettlebell exercises are ballistic type power movements performed at reasonably high intensity. This is going to supercharge the development of more lean muscle mass. More lean muscle means an overall reduction in body fat percentages.
Here are some other benefits;
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Combines Strength and Cardio – Perform ballistic exercises that combine strength, cardio, and flexibility training.
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Improves Functional Strength – Targets multiple muscle groups that help with everyday tasks and daily life.
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Compact and Portable – Only need one or two to train you entire body and are easy to store away.
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Fun and Versatile Workouts – Kettlebell exercises offer a wide range of movements that target every muscle group for a total body workout.
How to use kettlebells
One of the best things about kettlebells is that anyone can use them. If you haven’t used them before then it’s recommended that you start with very light kettlebells. Kettlebells can start at 1kg. Focus on technique and good form until your body is accustomed to the movement pattern. Only then should you reach for a heavier kettlebell.
Common movements
Right now there’s a probably a fitness enthusiasts all over the country trying kettlebells for the first time. Use them indoors/outdoors. I’ve used them at the beach. It’s great fun. But the location really only adds to the fun. You can get pretty intense with a hard kettlebell workout. No time like the present to give it a go. Need some advice about how to get started? Just go to our contact page and drop me a line. Link below.