5 unbeatable reasons to include kettlebells in your training

In the world of fitness, trends come and go, but some tools stand the test of time. Enter the humble kettlebell.

Dating back several centuries to ancient Greece, kettlebells were used to support resistance training for athletic preparation. More modern kettlebell training as we know it today has its roots in Russia back to the 18th century.

At Movement HQ, the kettlebell is not just another piece of equipment. It’s a game-changer. From its versatility to its effectiveness, here’s why we love kettlebell training and why it’s a staple in our small group classes.

1. Functional strength and stability

Our Co-Founder Mark Glanville is a big fan of functional training.

“In our classes, functional fitness is paramount, focusing on building strength and stability that translate into real-life movements. Kettlebell training excels in this regard, emphasising functional movements that mimic activities of daily living” he says.

From lifting groceries to bending down to pick up a child, the strength and stability gained through kettlebell exercises carry over seamlessly into everyday tasks.

“This practical application resonates with our members, motivating them to push themselves further and reap the benefits both inside and outside the gym”.

2. Stabilisation and power benefits

Unlike traditional dumbbells and barbells, kettlebells have a displaced center of mass, requiring greater stabilisation and engagement of smaller stabilising muscles during exercises.

This instability challenges the body in ways that static weights cannot, leading to more comprehensive strength development and improved functional fitness.

Additionally, many kettlebell exercises involve ballistic movements, such as swings and snatches, which require explosive power and coordination, further enhancing overall strength and athleticism.

3. Versatility personified

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, kettlebells offer a range of exercises suitable for all levels. From swings and squats to Turkish get-ups and snatches, there’s no shortage of movements to incorporate into our workouts.

In our group classes, variety is key. With kettlebells, we can easily switch up routines, keeping workouts fresh and engaging.

This versatility not only prevents boredom but also ensures that every muscle group is targeted, promoting overall strength and conditioning. 

4. Efficient and effective workouts

Time is precious, and that’s why efficiency is so important in our classes. Kettlebell training delivers a high-intensity workout in a relatively short amount of time.

With compound movements that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, kettlebell exercises provide maximum results in minimal time.

5. Mind-body connection

Kettlebell training goes beyond the physical. It’s as much a mental workout as it is a physical one.

At MHQ we emphasise the importance of mindfulness and the mind-body connection.Kettlebell exercises require focus, concentration, and coordination, forcing us to be present in the moment and tune in to our bodies.

According to Mark:

“Through kettlebell training, our members learn to quiet the noise of everyday life and tune into the rhythm of their breath and movement.

This mindfulness not only enhances the effectiveness of their workouts but also carries over into other aspects of their lives, promoting greater resilience, clarity, and overall well-being”.

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Taking it to the next level

Kettlebell movements involve complex, dynamic motions that require precise technique to execute safely and efficiently. Therefore it’s crucial to do kettlebell training with coaches who are competent at teaching good form – not only to maximise the effectiveness of each exercise, but to minimise the risk of injury.

Movement HQ coaches are kettlebell masters and are here to provide diligent and individualised instruction, corrections, and feedback to ensure you maintain proper alignment and mechanics throughout your workouts.

We can tailor the exercises to accommodate individual fitness levels and address specific mobility or strength limitations, optimising the training experience for each participant.

FIT YOUR KETTLEBELL TRAINING IN AT THESE MHQ CLASSES:

• Kettlebells
• Conditioning
• Mish Mash & Smash
• Movement Strength.

See how your kettlebell training fits into your next weekly workouts: