Benefits of Kettlebell – Part 1

Kettlebell exercises are trending across the US and the world. Originally they were used to measure weight for Russian farmers, today they are found in gyms and at home because they are versatile and fun to use. They have multiple benefits to your overall fitness program and can be used to focus on sports specific activities. However, when used incorrectly they can also increase your risk of lower back injury and should never be raised directly over head to prevent it slipping from your hand and crashing into your head.

However, with adequate training from a professional who is knowledgeable in body mechanics, the kettlebell can provide an amazing number of benefits to the user.

In the first place, the kettlebell will improve your endurance. The kettlebell is used with explosive force through a higher number of reps and sets. This combination will improve your overall endurance and strength and will help you to block a shot at the end of the basketball game.

The kettlebell is often a full body workout. Although there are exercises that will focus on specific areas of the body, such as the arms, core or legs, for the most part most of the exercises will engage the entire body. Because of this it develops a very strong core – both abs and back. Both of these factors are needed to reduce your risk of back injuries, improve your posture and improve your overall health.

Resources:

Riverside Kettlebells: Top 10 Benefits of Kettlebell Training

http://www.riversidekettlebells.com/2009/03/top-10-benefits-of-kettlebell-training.html

SparkPeople: We Iron out the facts on Kettlebell Training

http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=1222

MikeMahler: The Benefits of Kettlebell Training for fat loss strength training, explosive power and muscle building

http://www.mikemahler.com/online-library/articles/kettlebell-training/kettlebell-training-basic-concepts.html

Prevention: 7 Reasons You Need to Try Kettlebells

http://www.prevention.com/fitness/strength-training/7-reasons-women-should-try-kettlebells

BodyBuilding: Kettlebell Training Benefits

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/mahler56.htm

Shape: Kettlebell Workouts