If you want to build strength, kettlebells are a good tool to use. They’re good for more than just strength-building, they’re also excellent as an aerobic workout or to increase flexibility. You’ll work your entire body when you do kettlebell exercises and achieve the same results as you would get from other types of workouts in less time. Best of all, kettlebell workouts are fun to do, so you’ll be more apt to do them.
It’s all about the shape of the kettlebell.
Dumbbells and barbells are evenly balanced. The center of gravity is in the middle. Kettlebells are different. They aren’t evenly balanced. The center of gravity is between six to eight inches past the grip. Since there isn’t an even weight distribution, it continuously changes the center of gravity. That works core muscles more to maintain balance. The handle allows you to use a one or two-handed grip, making them more versatile.
The weight hangs below your hand on the kettlebells and the center of gravity constantly changes.
When you use kettlebells, the weight hangs down to create a constantly changing center of gravity. You’ll get a better workout, especially if you lift them over your head. The center shifts with even the slightest movement. That causes your upper body, particularly the arms, shoulders, forearms, and core muscles to work harder. If you compare an overhead press with kettlebells and the same exercise with a barbell, kettlebells work muscles harder, building greater grip strength.
You’ll burn tons of calories and have fun doing it.
Kettlebells burn as many calories as you would cross-country skiing uphill and are far more accessible, especially in the summer. In just a 20-minute session, you can burn 400 calories. That’s as many calories as you’d burn in an hour with other types of training. That makes it perfect for weight loss. A 6′ X 6′ area is adequate for a kettlebell workout. That allows you to do it at home if you don’t workout at the gym. You won’t get bored doing kettlebells. They’re excellent for all types of fitness, balance, flexibility, endurance, and strength.
- Kettlebells work smaller muscles as well as larger ones. That helps improve the joints, protects them from injury, and can help relieve pain. They’re also a low-impact exercise.
- You can tailor kettlebell workouts for athletes. They help provide the explosive power necessary for gymnastics, track, basketball, football, and cycling.
- Unlike exercise machines, kettlebells don’t require a lot of room to store. If you’re traveling, you can take them with you. People of all ages can use kettlebells, but it’s necessary to have proper training.
- Before you start any fitness training, always check with your healthcare professional. If you’re out of shape, begin with lighter-weight kettlebells and work toward using heavier ones as you get fitter.
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