Introduction to Kettlebell Exercises

While a relatively new phenomenon, the kettlebell actually has long history. The Russian military for instance has used the kettlebell in all of its physical training routines for centuries and there are traces of its use though out recorded history. It is really a global exercise and one of the best choices for fitness that no nation can claim to be the first to introduce. Its inception can be tied however to the invention of the cannon and it is possible that cannoneers use it in its earlier days as a way to stay in shape or limber. The kettle ball looks exactly like a cannon ball with an iron handle attached. They come in any number of weights that range for about 10 lbs to as much as 100 lbs.

The first time kettlebell exercises became popular among the general populace was when Karls Ernst, a well known strong man in Germany and Eastern Europe in the mid eighteenth century started using them in his act. They became so popular the kettlebell became the symbol for strongmen from that time forward and is even used in cartoons. Kettlebells are not merely ornamental however. They work well because of the shape of the weight and the way it is suspended from the handle. This configuration make kettlebell exercises one of the best resistance forms obtainable with any weight lifting set. Their use requires not only strength from every muscle from the hands to the shoulder but also requires speed and coordination. They are perfect for not only reducing fat but for increasing lean muscle mass much more quickly than other weight programs. There are movements like the seated Russian twist and Turkish get-ups that work parts of the body and muscle groups that normally take a battery of other exercises to get toned in.

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Introduction to Kettlebell Exercises