Some Facts Concerning Using Kettlebells
In spite of the assumptions we’ve heard recently, kettlebells aren’t new. The prevailing belief would have them roughly three centuries old. But over the past few years kettlebells have skyrocketed to global popularity, and at the time of writing they are as common as any other workout accessory. And who could deny it was well deserved?
You don’t need anything but the weights and you can get started with these straightforward steps. Obviously, the more advanced moves aren’t as straightforward. So don’t start running before you can walk, as your father might say. A very essential step when beginning to use Russian kettlebells involves ensuring you get yourself the correct weight. Happily, employing kettlebell exercises, you need smaller weights than you’d think. For female kettlebell users, an 18lb kettlebell can easily be more than required at the outset, and meanwhile male kettlebell users should choose the 35lb. The weights are remarkably low — because with these exercises, the burn comes more from the movement instead of how much weight is involved. An instructional aid (along the lines of a DVD or book) is a smart buy at this point, making sure that you have the actions the way they’re meant to be.
The key technique to work on with the Russian kettlebell should be the two-handed swing. This movement forms the foundation of many other kettlebell techniques, and it isn’t as straightforward as it seems. At all times your movements must be fluent, rather than abrupt. You should make sure your lift doesn’t stem from your spine — use your hips instead.
By the time you’ve perfected the two-handed swing, you’ll be able to progress farther — you’ll be ready to tackle the other techniques. Keep your fitness program interesting by means of adjusting routines and reps, backed perhaps by a selection of music. Later, while your experience level increases, you can adjust the weights of the kettlebells you use and maybe bring in an additional pair. Naturally, you won’t want your regime to lose its effectiveness, and these pointers help to circumvent that. One thing we should state clearly is that kettlebells will not help you build muscle or assist in body building. Instead, look to them to lose weight and for general fitness improvements and maintenance in a lasting manner. A well rounded workout program will only be improved by the inclusion of a session working with the kettlebells. The amount you pick up the kettlebells is completely up to you. Simply going for one or two exercise sessions per week you can easily maintain your general levels. And if you ramp up to five or six you’re certain to shed excess fat in no time…
