Kettlebell popularity has been going strong for years. And you may be wondering why kettlebells are so effective. But is it worth it to switch your workouts to incorporate them?
They certainly look strange. And maybe you are reluctant to pick them up, fearing you may look silly lugging around this weight that looks more like a purse than anything. But if you think kettlebells will fade away into exercise obscurity, think again.
If you still need convincing, check out these 5 reasons why kettlebell workouts are so effective. They may surprise you.
It’s All in the Design
There is a reason why these weights look so weird. The center of gravity is a little off center due to the extended weight handle. It’s these extra 6-8 inches that make kettlebells different than using weight machines or dumbbells.
Because of the off-center mass, kettlebells force you to move your muscles in a way that mimics everyday activities. They also help develop speed and power for improved sports performance.
Step up Your Power Endurance
Sure, your current workouts help with strength endurance. But can you imagine doing the same sustained movements quickly? Kettlebells help train you to exert the same amount of power moves as strength endurance reps, but they have the added bonus of quick explosive power behind those moves.
Seamless Transitions and Movements
It’s a Cardio Workout
Since you maintain fluid movement throughout the entire session, these weights can also help improve heart health. That’s right. Because you don’t stop between exercises, using kettlebells also qualifies as cardio.
Additionally, kettlebell weights enable seamless transition between different exercises. When you get into the flow of your workout, you can switch from one movement to the next without stopping to switch out weights or even hand position in some cases. Seamless transitions also help to reduce the time it takes to work out. Because you eliminate breaks or equipment changes, you spend more time exercising and have less downtime.
That means you don’t need to strap on your running shoes if you don’t want to. Just make sure your kettlebell workout raises your heart rate for the required amount of beats, and sustain it for at least half an hour.
Furthermore, because many kettlebell exercises are done with your arm position above your head, the regular muscles used for breathing are less or not available. This forces you to control your breaths as you work out and provides further exercise for your respiratory system.
Space Saving
If you think you don’t have space for another weight set, this is good news. Kettlebells take up minimal floor space, so you can have them in your home or apartment without worry. Simply put them in a corner or closet when you aren’t using them.
And unless you are buying for a large gym facility, you don’t need a full set. One or two will suffice for most workout sessions.
Inexpensive and Portable
Want to incorporate kettlebells into your existing workout, or try exercising with these weights alone? You don’t have to make monthly payments to get your hands on these weights.
They are available individually, or you can splurge and buy a little set. Either way, they are generally very durable so you don’t have to worry about repeated replacements. You can also easily take them into other rooms or move them outdoors.
True Movement and Flexibility
As lifestyles become increasingly sedentary, people are losing the ability to move with a full range of motion. Kettlebells take movements back to basics with simple exercises that work on the total body instead of specific muscle groups.
Fluid, mindful movements with the kettlebell encourage your body to move as it is meant to, not as you have become accustomed to. Consequently, you may improve your flexibility as you work out and stretch areas that are idle for those who sit at a computer all day.
Effective for Weight Loss
You’ve heard it before. The keys to losing weight are diet and exercise. But if you’ve already changed your diet, why aren’t you losing weight?
It could be the way you exercise. While the kettlebell is not a miracle weight, it can help you with strong bursts of high-intensity workouts. Additionally, you may also do long, sustained aerobic activity with these weights. Both are integral ways to exercise for weight loss.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to stop your current workout routine to use kettlebells. Nor do you have to sign up for your local CrossFit class. Instead, try incorporating these weights into your existing routine and discover why kettlebells are so effective.
