A client asked me my opinion on kettlebell workouts. Because I am always looking for good blog material, here we are.
I think most people will agree with me: kettlebell workouts are amazing — they're fun and effective on many levels.
They are effective because when you perform the exercises, you are using many muscle groups at the same time. (As you know, I am a huge fan of this type of training.) What looks like a basic maneuver, like a one-arm overhead swing, in reality is a squat-anterior shoulder-middle shoulder-core stabilization exercise. This effort will result in great cardiovascular benefits, muscular strength and endurance.
I do, however, offer one word of caution: start out light. You may find it very easy to swing a heavy weight — but less so to slow down and stabilize the weight.
My recommendation here is the same as for launching any new exercise: begin with a lighter weight. This allows you to develop some muscle memory for the motions required for the exercise. Later, you can move on to heavier weights.
To find some kettlebell exercises, drop me a line. You also can check out GoFit.net, whose kettlebells come with a instructional DVDs and can be found at many sporting good stores.
