Crossfit Kettlebell Exercises – Part 2

The kettlebell is a round iron weight with an attached handle that was originally used by Russian farmers to weigh their grain. Over time it was incorporated into sporting activities and made its way to the US in the 1960s. Today it is a trending piece of weight equipment that can be used at both the gym and at home. Because of the small size and relative portability, the kettlebell can easily be used in a home gym.

However, when not used correctly, the kettlebell can increase stress and strain on the lower back and potentially increase the risk of injury. Physical therapist also use the equipment to help improve the strength of the posterior chain (along the spine) to stabilize the spine and prevent injuries. When used correctly it can help shape the health of your back, when used incorrectly it can damage your lower back.

Crossfit trainers use the kettlebell for a variety of different exercises because of the versatility and total body workout that the athlete gets with the kettlebell. Those exercises include the basic swing, kettlebell clean, kettlebell snatch, kettlebell press and thrust, Turkish get up and kettlebell figure 8.

Each of these exercises has the benefit of engaging the upper body, core and lower body in varying degrees. This overall body workout with one exercise makes the kettlebell perfect for a Crossfit program, to increase strength and endurance.

Resources:

Mens Fitness: 4 Killer Kettlebell Moves to Supplement Your Crossfit Workout

http://www.mensfitness.com/training/endurance/4-kettlebell-moves-to-supplement-your-crossfit-workout

Crossfit: Crossfit Video Menu

http://www.crossfit.com/cf-info/exercise.html

CrossfitMeridian: Kettlebell Workouts

http://www.crossfitmeridian.net/workouts.php?c=Kettlebell

Crossfit: What is CrossFit

http://www.crossfit.com/cf-info/what-is-crossfit.html