What is a Kettlebell?
August 5, 2009
Kettlebell? Isn’t that what the cowboy’s cook rang to let the wranglers know supper was ready? Not quite.
The kettlebell, or girya, originated in Russia, with early designs resembling a cannonball with a handle. Being made of solid cast iron, the kettlebell helped define the ultimate strongman and became a popular strength challenge, and the national sport of Russia. More than 20 countries are involved in kettlebell sport.
The kettlebell is used throughout the United States as an exercise tool, with its primary focus on strength building. The design of the kettlebell allows for flexibility and range of motion not found with traditional weight training systems, such as barbells, dumbbells and weight machines. With the kettlebell’s popularity among avid trainers, the look and design of this weight-training device has changed immensely, and there are now a multitude of companies who distribute them.
The kettlebell has gained popularity with a diverse set of athletes; professional and Olympic athletes commonly use the kettlebell to help maintain strength and agility, whereas the novice athlete would use the kettlebell to help break plateaus and training barriers. Some newer kettlebell replications have adjustable weights, making it easier for women to tailor their workouts as well.
Specifically designed workout routines using the kettlebell have become popular with both traditional gym trainers and cross-trainers. The unique design of the kettlebell strengthens the core and increases both agility and balance, and at the same time gives the added benefit of elongated, lean muscle mass.
Aside from strength training, kettlebell lifting has become a U.S. sport of its own, gaining national recognition. Its competitive exercises, the ‘Two Kettlebell Jerk’ and ‘One Kettlebell Snatch’ are performed for ten minutes each, challenging the strength and endurance of their competitors. In the end, the athlete with the highest overall score wins.
If you are wondering if kettlebell training is for you, only you and your body can answer that. If you want an exercise program that will take you to the next fitness level, enhancing any activity you are already undertaking, then yes! Utilizing the kettlebell training will compliment your current program or replace a routine that isn’t working for you. Kettlebell training can make all the difference in your lean body mass and help you reach, and maintain your fitness goals.
“It is not hyperbole for me to say that Eric changed my life. I’m 60 and with Eric’s help and guidance I became thirty pounds leaner, lost four inches off my waist and significantly reduced my cholesterol and heart rate. We did this with his emphasis on core exercise, particularly kettle bells. I cannot over emphasize his expertise in kettle bells or how central they’ve been to my training. Eric teaches and supervises the kettle bell work outs which are fun, challenging, safe and hugely varied. I simply can’t recommend Eric too highly.”
~Andy G.
