How to Choose
the Right Kettlebell
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| "Regardless of the style you choose, Kettlebell Kings are the super-cars of kettlebells!" |
The popularity of kettlebells has
exploded, and so has the number of retailers offering kettlebells. Once you’ve
decided to incorporate kettlebells into your workout routines, it can be
daunting to select the right kettlebells. The guidelines included here are
meant to outline the basics of what makes a great kettlebell, as well as the
details that are specific to your fitness needs. If you’re a beginner, consider
purchasing a single bell to start your fitness journey. Kettlebells are
renowned for their versatility, and a solo kettlebell can be used to perform
almost any exercise. The quality, durability, and cross-functionality of
kettlebells greatly reduces the amount of equipment you need to purchase for a
great at-home workout routine.
Basic
Kettlebell Needs to Consider
You should purchase kettlebells that
have been constructed in a single cast. This means that the piece of iron used
to make the kettlebell is continuous, and the base and handle are not two
separate pieces that have been attached. A single-cast kettlebell is more
stable, and there is no risk of the handle becoming detached in a dynamic
movement. If possible, you should inspect the underside seam of the handle of
any kettlebell before purchasing it. The seam should be filed down to create a
smooth surface, otherwise you may find yourself developing blisters.
Keep a few details in mind when
inspecting the bottom of the kettlebell. For one, the base of the kettlebell
should be flattened; the bell should be stable as you set it down and pick it
up between reps. This is especially important if you choose to perform
movements where you’re balanced above the bell, i.e. push ups, planks, renegade
rows, etc.
Your ideal kettlebell depends on the
type of exercises you intend to use it for. If you plan on performing most of
your kettlebell exercises with one hand, consider buying a competition
kettlebell. These kettlebells have smaller handles and are the preferred
kettlebell for perfecting technique, as all the competition kettlebells are the
same size regardless of their weight. If versatility of movement and two-handed
kettlebell exercises are more important to you, consider purchasing a cast-iron
kettlebell. Regardless of kettlebell type, make sure the thickness of the
kettlebell handle is comfortable for you.
The top two kettlebell finishes we
recommend purchasing are cerakote and powder. Avoid vinyl, paint, and cheaper
coatings that will chip away over time. Kettlebells are built to last for years
without needing to be replaced, and the finish of your kettlebell should align
with that durability. Both cerakote and powder bells protect cast iron
kettlebells from rust, chemical interactions, and abrasions. They are also
designed to be resilient and preserve hardness. If cost is a deciding factor,
powder is more affordable and will maintain the integrity of your kettlebell.
Cerakote kettlebells have a higher price tag and magnify the benefits of both
coatings. They have a smoother finish that may be ideal for delicate palms.
Fitness-Specific
Needs to Consider
Now that we’ve
discussed a few basic concepts you should be aware of when purchasing
kettlebells, we will discuss specific weights. A key component of what makes
kettlebells so effective and challenging is that they create a longer lever arm
when you’re using them. This means you must use more force to move a kettlebell
than you would a dumbbell of the same weight.
As a general
recommendation, purchase kettlebells that are anywhere from 5 to 15 lbs.
lighter than the dumbbell weight you’d normally use for your workouts.
Depending on your strength and fitness level, you may need to size up or down.
The best indicator of the right kettlebell weight will be your form. You should
maintain correct form throughout your exercise routine; if you can’t, adjust
weight accordingly to avoid injury and developing poor form.
Purchasing one
kettlebell may be the best idea if you’re a novice kettlebell user. Choose a
weight that is compatible with the majority of your movements. If you’d like to
purchase a range of kettlebells, consider buying one moderately heavy
kettlebell and one heavy kettlebell. A moderately heavy kettlebell for most men
would weigh 12-16 kg
(26-35 lbs.) kettlebell, and for women, this
would be a 8-10 kg (18-22 lbs.) kettlebell. A heavy kettlebell for men
would weigh 20 kg (44 lbs.), while for women this would be closer to 16 kg (35
lbs.).
Now that we’ve covered the basic
components of a high-quality kettlebell, we encourage you to shop around and
compare specialty kettlebell retailers. Most chain stores like Academy,
Walmart, and traditional sporting goods stores will stock kettlebells that aren’t
cast in a single piece of metal or are covered in vinyl or paint. To ensure you’re
making the best investment, purchase from a reputable kettlebell-specific site
or store with a great reputation.
About Kettlebell Kings
Kettlebell Kings is a
premium-quality kettlebell and kettlebell content provider, based in Austin,
Texas. You can view our equipment, kettlebell how-to’s, and get expert advice
at https://www.kettlebellkings.com and https://www.kettlebellkings.com/blog/. For more information, call us at 855-7KETTLE to learn more.
