Guide to Buying a Kettlebell

If you’re interested in buying a kettlebell but don’t know where to start, this ultimate guide is for you.

Kettlebell training has exploded in recent years, with professional and amateur athletes all availing of the massive benefits it produces.

Getting strong, fitter and leaner in a shorter space of time and with minimal fuss.

It’s that easy (almost!).

In this guide, our Home Gym Expert Staff member, Alex Malone, takes you through the most important aspects of buying a kettlebell.

He will take you through things to look for when buying a kettlebell, as well as all the benefits and top tips you will need.

Don’t forget our wide range of kettlebells to get you started.

buying a kettlebell

If cardio is your thing but weight training not so much, check out our guide on How to Buy a Spin Bike.

How to Buy a Kettlebell Overview

Kettlebells, often known as ‘Russian hand weights’, have been around since the 1700s, although they have only recently acquired widespread media attention and appeal in the fitness industry.

While kettlebells have long been seen as a source of pride in Russia, they were not manufactured and used in North America until 1998.

In 1985, Russia designated kettlebell a sport with its own set of rules and regulations.

On a global scale, both men and women participate in power and strength endurance sports, both recreationally and competitively.

Types of Kettlebell

“Hi guys, firstly you got to remember that there are two different types when buying a kettlebell – vinyl coated kettlebells and cast iron kettlebells.

“The cast-iron kettlebell, sometimes known as the ‘original’ kettlebell, is constructed entirely of cast-iron.

“The material and design of the handle and weight are both consistent. The vinyl kettlebell is similar to the cast-iron kettlebell in appearance, but it has a vinyl coating that covers the weight and, in some cases, the grip.

buying a kettlebell

“One thing to be conscious of is that if a kettlebell is covered n vinyl, it may not be the exact weight, while they can also be kore expensive due to manufacturing costs.

“Both are suitable for commercial and home gym use, but if you’re planning on doing double-handed exercises like kettlebell swings, cast iron kettlebells are what to buy.”

Benefits of Kettlebell Training

Low Impact Cardio

“Traditional cardiovascular activities such as running can be quite beneficial to strength athletes, they can also be extremely taxing on the body.

“If your recovery isn’t completely customized to that strategy, adding hours on the treadmill to your training might not be the most beneficial cardio option either.

“Kettlebell training means you won’t be putting the same repetitive strain on your joints and connective tissue as you would if you were jogging because your feet stay grounded during even the most powerful moves.”

Full Body Workout

“Kettlebells’ allure stems from the fact that they’re healthy for more than simply your heart and lungs.

“They can also help you increase your muscular strength and mass all over your body.

“Everything from swings to Turkish get-ups will make you a significantly stronger lifter because most kettlebell exercises stimulate muscles from head to toe.

“Working with kettlebells will give your entire body a major boost in strength, with a focus on your core.”

buying a kettlebell

Better Mobility

“The good news is that you don’t need good coordination or mobility to begin kettlebell training.

“With workouts like Turkish get-ups and kettlebell windmills, you may start simple and gradually increase your overhead mobility, coordination, and stability.

“Deep kettlebell goblet squats, as well as precise kettlebell deadlifts and swings, will improve hip mobility and coordination.

“Your coordination and mobility will have greatly improved by the time you progress to the more challenging kettlebell moves.”

Practicality

“They are also a super quick way of shedding some pounds in a short space of time. Some studies find you can burn up to 400 calories in a 20 minute workout.

“So they will leave you feeling great both mentally and physically afterwards.

“They are also incredibly easy to store and carry around than other weights and won’t take up a lot of room in your home gym.”

How To Buy a Kettlebell Top Tips

Don’t Go Too Heavy

“It won’t benefit you if you go too heavily.

“You’ll do more harm than good by exercising your ego.

“You’re not ready for it just because you saw it on the internet.

“While it’s necessary to push yourself, if you’re sacrificing form in order to lift a given weight, the possible injury outweighs the potential benefit.

“As long as you keep within your capabilities, heavyweight is necessary for gaining strength.

“It’s easy to get carried away with a goal of pressing or swinging greater and heavier weights.

“Stop the set as soon as your form deteriorates, or even a set or two before that, if you’re utilizing a weight you can handle for a specific rep range.”

buying a kettlebell

Simplify Your Training

“Nothing beats the simplicity of one or two bells and some fresh air if you’re in your home gym

“When it comes to gym equipment in traditional venues, it’s easy to get caught up in the ‘more is better’ approach.

“The list goes on and on with racks, dumbbells, cable machines, ab stations, and so on.

“With a few kettlebells, you may add dynamic moves to your calisthenics practice at home, simplifying it.

“Check out our amazing bundle offers HERE. 

“A change of pace from in-depth, percentage-driven workouts can be refreshing.

“Simple complexes and movements can help you keep going on your strength journey without missing a beat and without the need for a ton of equipment and weight.”

Stay within your Ability

“Just because you desire to accomplish something doesn’t necessarily mean you’re ready to do it.

“The talent is more vital than the will.

“If you’re new to the kettlebell world, social media may be a dangerous area. Juggling, aggressive motions, and high-volume routines may appear appealing, but if you’re not ready, take a step back.

“We’ve got some great workout ideas below.”

Kettlebell Training Workouts

“There is loads of brilliant kettlebell workouts you can find online and do at home.

“Below are some links to our favourites.”

Men’s Health Focus on Building Muscle

Cosmopolitan’s 15-Minute Workout to hit all muscle groups

Conclusion

We really hope you enjoyed this blog.

If you’re interested in more really good content, check out our Blog right here.

Or why not shop our Kettlebell range HERE or below.

buying a kettlebell