Picture a gym; What do you see? Treadmills? Bikes? Dumbbells? The ever so popular machines and equipment that the general public flock to and therefore must surely be the best option… right?
What if I was to tell you there was something better. Something that can build strength, improve fitness and burn calories FAR more effectively than those just mentioned. If you haven’t guessed already, I’m talking about kettlebells.
That’s right. Those funny looking spheres with handles, most likely gathering dust in the corner, hold the answers you’ve been looking for. Let’s have a look at the main kettlebell benefits:
Improving Strength & Cardiovascular Fitness Simultaneously
‘But Kettlebells are weights! That can’t be true!’
Kettlebell workouts are full body and often very dynamic. You’ll be working through various planes of movement with a variety of squats, lunges, hinges and presses. Not only is building strength through these movements very functional for your day to day life, it’ll burn a hell of a lot of calories too. Trust me- You’ll be sweating.
Kettlebells are great for strengthening the posterior chain (that includes your Hamstrings, Glutes, lower/upper back) in particular, which is vital for functional health and can help with postural issues. Unilateral movements are excellent for improving core strength and stability too. So if you find yourself sitting at your desk for long periods each day, go and dust off those kettlebells.
Mobility
This is an important, yet often overlooked area when it comes to not just kettlebell benefits, but health and fitness in general. Improving mobility, especially under load, is key to preventing future injuries and keeping us able as we age.
Where machines and dumbbells lack, this is an area where kettlebells excel.
Variation & Fun
One of the greatest kettlebell benefits is the vast array of exercises you can do with them. One of the main factors when it comes to reaching your goals is enjoyment of exercise. When you enjoy your workouts, you are far more likely to be consistent. The ability to make each workout different and always having a new movement to practice and learn, is the icing on the cake.
You Can Train Anywhere
In a space the size of an arm length, outwards and upwards, you can have an extremely effective full body workout. In your own home, outside, on holiday - Wherever you are, a single kettlebell can be all you need.
Have the kettlebell benefits persuaded you to get started? Check out this Kettlebell Workout For Weight Loss and find the 3 best exercises to add to your workout!
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If you are after some ideas for workouts, or would like some form tips to get you started, please feel free to check out my instagram page at: www.instagram.com/jackwhitefitness
If you live in Southampton, Winchester, Eastleigh, Chandlers Ford, Romsey, or nearby locations and would like to learn to use kettlebells safely and effectively, click here to find out about Personal Training at your home.
Thanks for reading!