Weighing in On Your Fitness With Kettlebells!

Welcome to the world of kettlebells!  Created in Russia in the 1700s, kettlebells were used by the Soviet army to increase strength and endurance.  Simply put, kettlebells resemble a cannonball with a handle.  They are cast-iron and can vary in weight from 5 to 70 pounds.  Be careful because they are usually measured in kilograms.

It wasn't until 2001 that fitness enthusiast Pavel Tsatsouline created the certification to become a kettlebell instructor.  Once word spread of the benefits of such a workout, superstar athletes such as LeBron James, Aaron Rodgers, and Sidney Crosby began incorporating kettlebell workouts into their routines.

Why introduce kettlebells into your workout program?

Functional Fitness Training

Functional training has taken the fitness industry by storm and kettlebells provide the thunder.  Performing a simple swing with a kettlebell will force your body to work as a single giant muscle.  You'll feel the difference the following morning in your glutes, hamstrings, quads, shoulders, even abs!  Olympic lifts such as clings, snatch, and deadlifts are other popular exercises that will give you a full-body cardio and strength workout. 

Kettlebell Workouts Pack a Punch!

We live in a rapid pace world and our time is extremely valuable.  We all want the best results in the fastest time possible. With kettlebells, results come quicker. You could blitz through a kettlebell workout in 20 minutes.  One study has shown that one 20-minute kettlebell snatch routine (on average) shreds 13.6 calories per minute aerobically and 6.6 calories per minute anaerobically.  That is equivalent to running a 6-minute mile pace.  Imagine how much time you could save by these espresso-shot style workouts.  Don't forget about the phenomenal results as well.

As with all exercise routines, you should consult with a doctor and trainer before beginning any unfamiliar exercises.  Do so, then test your muscles and cardiovascular system through a kettlebell program.  Just make sure you hold on tight and as always, have fun with your workout!