Inspired Living through Informed Choice!
Bay Area Women's Hournal Logo
 
Home
About Us
Archives
Advertise
Subscribe
Contact Us
 


In This Edition

Subscribe Today


Weight Training with Kettlebells!

Amy DudleyMany women believe if they do any type of weight training, the result would be a more masculine body.  I have found that women tend to join aerobics classes and use hydraulic exercise machines hoping to find the secret to huge weight loss.

I know most of us know “someone” that has either joined or tried one of these methods.  We know the result!
Results that are noticeable do not come from just cardiovascular exercise. Make no mistake about it, the best way to get a lean, striking, and a well defined physique is with heavy weights and low reps.
I have taught group fitness classes for the last fifteen years. Four months after the birth of my third son, with many pounds to lose, I found myself looking for a exercise program that renewed my energy level, was exciting, and of course enabled me to fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans!  I found the answer...Kettlebell.

What is a ‘Kettlebell’?

A ‘Kettlebell’ is a traditional Russian cast iron weight that looks like a cannonball with a handle.  The Kettlebell dates back to 1704 in the Russian dictionary and made its American debut in 2001 by Pavel Tsatsouline, deemed modern king of Kettlebells, and Dragon Door publications.

Why train with ‘Kettlebells’?

Kettlebell workouts increase strength, endurance, agility and balance, challenging both the muscular and cardiovascular system with dynamic, total-body movements delivering all-around fitness.  Kettlebells’ melt fat without the dishonor of dieting or aerobics. 

What does this mean?  If you’re overweight, you will lean out.  If you’re skinny, you will build muscle.  But will Kettlebell’s make me bulky?  In order to build big bulky muscles you have to have the right amount of testosterone levels which women do not have, and increased caloric intake, and a regimen that includes lots of volume.  The answer is no.  Kettleball

The Russian Kettlebell is a powerful tool for fixing your body comp, whichever way it needs fixing.  With ‘kettlebells’ you will get stronger and improve your overall conditioning, no other tool does it better.  Additionally, the kettlebell will make your back resilient from every conceivable angle, statically and dynamically and is an outstanding grip, wrist, and forearm developer.  The kettlebell’s offset center of gravity maximizes shoulder strength, flexibility, and health.  This is beneficial in our busy, demanding lives.

Who trains with ‘Kettlebells’?

Clients or Comrades of all persuasions or ages.  ‘Kettlebells’ are used among all walks of life:  martial artists, athletes, military, law enforcement, busy Mom’s, soon to be you and me.  This can definitely seem intimidating.  What could a woman possibly get out of this?  Everything.  Kettlebells will increase your energy level, reshape your body, improve strength, relieve stress, and boost your metabolism which will enhance your quality of life. You will see results and achieve your fitness goals more quickly with The Kettlebell Workout.

Am I ‘Kettlebell’ material?

‘Kettlebell’ training is for everyone no matter what stage of life you find yourself or body type.  Participants begin with a manageable kettlebell and increase when ready. 

Where can I train with ‘Kettlebells”?

Most women are more concerned with having a lean physique rather than developing real strength.  You will become leaner and develop a body that is strong and conditioned when you train for strength.  The body you have always wanted or wished you had is waiting for you with Kettlebells.

Visit www.dragondoor.com to locate an instructor in your area.  You can also order kettleballs, videos and other resources to help you get started with your kettleball exercise program!

Amy Dudley has been teaching fitness classes for 15 year.  She completed certification for the Russian Kettlebell Instructor Challenge in September 2007.
To download a PDF copy of this article, Click Here  

     
Copyright © 2008 Bay Area Women's Journal Top of Page Website Design by Janssen & Associates