FITNESS
What would you say if I told you it was possible to get an incredibly effective workout with a piece of equipment that fits in the palm of your hand, and that you could use in the comfort of your own home? A workout that would challenge your cardiovascular system, improve strength-endurance, increase flexibility, and melt body-fat without ever setting foot under the intimidating lights of the local gym or fitness center? You would probably laugh and expect to see my infomercial complete with bad acting. That is, unless you have ever tried working out with a kettlebell.
Kettlebell training is growing in popularity, and quickly becoming the workout of choice for those looking for an alternative. Make no mistake about it; kettlebells are not just the next "fitness fad" - they are serious tools that will create a stronger, healthier person.
What is a kettlebell? A kettlebell looks like a cannon-ball with a large iron handle attached to it. They originated in Russia over three-hundred years ago, and were very popular with strongmen, weight lifters, and athletes of that era. They are becoming quite popular in the U.S. due largely to former Russian Special Forces trainer Pavel Tsatsouline. In 2001 Rolling Stone magazine named kettlebells "Hot Weight of the year" and in 2002 named Pavel"Hot Trainer of the year."
Kettlebell exercises include various squats, presses, deadlifts, swings and snatches. Some exercises are similar to what you would see in the gym or yoga class, while others look like something you have never seen before.
What can you expect from kettlebell training?
- Dramatic improvements in strength-endurance
- Increased flexibility and joint range of motion
- A cardiovascular workout that will have you ready to sell your treadmill
- Increased lean bulk-free muscle
- With a healthy nutrition program, a body that will be ready for the beach.
Kettlebells are extremely versatile. For example, they may be used in conjunction with various forms of exercise, like weight training, sports conditioning, yoga and Pilates. They can also be used exclusively for a total-body workout. Kettlebell training is perfect for those of us that are too busy to go to the gym and would rather workout at home. You only need one or two kettlebells in order to get started, and are easily stored in the closet or under the bed, unlike that treadmill and bowflex you no longer use. The price is good too. A good set of kettlebells and a video or two will cost you about the same price as a one year gym membership. Except with the kettlebells you can workout in the comfort of your own home for the rest of your life.
If you are looking for a walk in the park kettlebells probably aren't for you. If you want a serious tool that will create a "lean and mean" body, kettlebells are the perfect remedy.
For more information on kettlebells or issues related to health and fitness, contact Scott Shetler at: scott@extreme-fitness.org.
