Don’t get the wrong idea; the idea of the kettlebell isn’t a fresh idea. In point of fact, they’ve been around since the early 1700s according to our best estimates. During recent years, it should be said, they’ve shot up in popularity to become one of the trendiest fitness routines globally. So why not try them out? You don’t need anything except the weights themselves and you can begin using these simple moves. Naturally, the more advanced techniques require more practice before trying them out. Walk before you run, as they say. An important preparation before beginning to train with kettlebells involves making sure you get yourself the right weight. And, with these types of exercises, the weights used are surprisingly small. Typically for female kettlebell users, an eighteen lb kettlebell can easily be more than required as you begin, although male aficionados are typically better served by the thirty five pound weights. This derives from the fact that you benefit from a kettlebell exercise in ways linked much more closely to the motions conducted than the weights lifted. It can also be important to order an instruction book or video to study and ensure you perform the exercises correctly.
The initial technique to master with the Russian kettlebell should be the double-handed swing. This motion forms the foundation of most other kettlebell routines, and while it seems straightforward, it isn’t. Above all your movements must be fluid, rather than awkward. A common health & safety recommendation merits repeating here: back and shoulders are not the best way to lift the kettlebells. You should, instead, use your hips.
By the time you have this movement perfected, you can move onto a selection of the more complicated motions. Keep your exercise regime interesting by means of adjusting techniques, backed perhaps by a selection of music. As you become more comfortable carrying out these maneuvers, think about bringing another set of kettlebells into your exercise program, perhaps even using an assortment of weights. If you do this you have the chance to avoid the plateau that renders regular exercise less efficient.
You shouldn’t fall for the delusion that a chiseled body and stronger muscles lie ahead if all you’re working with is the kettlebells, mind you. For these sessions are designed solely to improve your all-round fitness level and help you lose weight.
We suggest bringing a session working with the kettlebells into your wider workout scheme. Obviously, the degree to which you employ them is a matter of individual choice. With one or two exercise sessions per week it’s perfectly easy to maintain your baseline fitness levels; and if you ramp up to a daily regime you’re sure to reduce excess fat and lose weight at an awesome pace…