A kettlebell is a centuries-old Russian training tool that looks like a cannonball with a handle.
How are kettlebells used?
Kettlebells can be used in ballistic or swinging movements or used in press and pull exercises similar to those one would use with a weight. The displacement of the weight from the hand requires that the stabilizing muscles engage more with each movement than would be required of a similar movement with a weight such as a dumbell. Kettlebell exercises are whole-body exercises requiring full body integration and core stabilization. There is no such thing as isolated muscle work in Kettlebell training.
Why would I want to use them?
Real Fitness Results.
With proper training and real physical exertion -yes, you do work hard with kettlebells -- a 20 minute workout will get your heart pounding, strengthen your muscles and even increase flexibility. It's an efficient whole-body workout for strength, stamina, strong abdominals, aerobic exercise and dynamic flexibility. Time-efficient, functional and effective.
Who uses kettlebells?
Athletes- The 1980 Russian Olympic athletes swept Gold in all throwing events after training with kettlebells. Pro & amateur athletes from triathletes, to football players, to martial artists, to dancers have discovered the benefits of kettlebell training. Athletic-trained individuals usually feel an immediate affinity for kettlebell training. The movements make sense in the body. Athletes routinely work with momentum and therfore experience direct benefits when working with momentum-based kettlebell moves.
Military- Long used by the Russian military, it's no surprise that when kettlebells were brought to the U.S., one of the first groups to recognize the benefits of working with kettlebells was the U.S. Military and Secret Service. As a matter of fact, the U.S. Secret Service's (already highly-trained) Counter Assault Team train with kettlebells as do several Special Forces units.
Moms- Mothers and other busy women gravitate toward kettlebell training when they discover the kinds of results they can gain in a time-efficient workout. Yes, kettlebell training provides excellent results for all the areas women complain about --abdominals, buns and thighs. Minimal time but NOT minimal effort! You don't have to be an athlete to train with kettlebells.
Executives- Male and female, working executives, college students and office personnel all face the challenges of high stress, minimal available time and too much time sitting. Too much sitting can lead to bad posture and weakened hip and back extensors, hamstring and gluteal muscles. Counteract stress and muscle imbalances, increase cardiovascular endurance, improve stamina and forget about the office! You won't even be able to think about the office because kettlebell training requires concentration and focus. You can sweat out your troubles(Physical exertion required!)
