What are the benefits of kettlebell training? Well lets first begin by saying there are always trends when it comes to fitness and weight training – particularly when beach season is around the corner – and usually they involve specific methods, practices, or even diets. However, in recent years there has been a surge in the popularity of kettlebell training, and according to many experts in physical training this development could be far more valuable than the average exercise trend. Kettlebell training originated in Russia, where it has long been practiced by athletes, and has recently become a common practice in much of Europe and the United States, due to its efficient nature and effective results. Here are some of the benefits that people who train with kettlebells enjoy, which you may want to consider as you’ll soon be heading to Marks and Spencer to shop for beach season!
A Quick Workout
Once you are properly trained in kettlebell exercises (which involve hoisting and swinging different sized weights by small handles), you will be able to get a very complete workout in a very short amount of time. Many even claim that as few as 30 minutes with kettlebells can effectively work out every major muscle group. This is partially due to the mobile nature of kettlebell exercises – instead of sitting in a set position working one muscle group at a time, you will be shifting your balance and using your whole body in each exercise, which makes for improved efficiency.
Core Attention
Another benefit of the style and motion of kettlebell training is that it works the core in a way that most ordinary exercise routines do not. Of course, it is possible to focus on the core with individual exercises aimed at abdominal and back strength, and even balance – but with proper kettlebell training you can work your core within the same exercises you are doing for cardio and weight training. This, again, is due to the motions involved in kettlebell training.
Workout Simplicity
Ordinary exercise routines can get complicated or tedious, simply due to the extent of equipment often required. Normal weight lifting programs involve various weights and machines, and also require separate cardio training. With kettlebells, you can simplify your whole exercise routine – all you’ll need is a small room, 30 minutes, and the appropriately weighted kettlebells for your level. Not only is this generally simpler, it is also cheaper if you like to exercise at home.
Cardio & Strength Training
Typically, people separate their exercises into weight training for the purpose of strengthening muscles, and cardiovascular exercise to get the heart rate up and burn calories. However, because of the hoisting and swinging motions involved in kettlebell training, as well as the short breaks generally recommended between “sets,” kettlebell exercise programs can provide cardio and weight training in one. Of course, you may still want to go for a run on occasion if cardio is a main focus – but kettlebells do offer a healthy and beneficial combination.
This is a guest post on the benefits of kettlebell training by Jim Harrison, a freelance writer who enjoys keeping up with trends in sports and exercise.
