Choosing the right kettlebell size is crucial to the way you train with this unusually shaped fitness equipment. The wrong size can dilute the outcome of your efforts or even lead to grievous injuries that can force you to quit training midway.
So before beginning with your kettlebell workouts, it is absolutely important for you to know how to select the right kettlebell size.
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Selecting the Right Kettlebell
Choosing the most suitable kettlebell will depend on several factors such as your weight, age, present fitness level and how active you are.
Moreover, some kettlebell movements such as swings, lifts, cleans, snatches are ballistic movements that are better done with heavier kettlebells. On the other hand, moves such as overhead press, bent press, windmills, Turkish get-ups are done in a controlled manner and a lighter kettlebell would be more suitable.
Kettlebells for Men
Unfortunately, men tend to reach out for a heavy kettlebell without considering their own capacity. Even if it’s too heavy, most men would want to continue with a big kettlebell because that’s the ‘man’ thing to do. And then there are those that already train with dumbbells and barbells and consider the kettlebell as just another gym equipment.
However, the truth is that kettlebells are uniquely shaped cannonball like solid masses with a much lighter handle on top. This difference in weight makes it off-balance and that much difficult to handle. It takes real time and patience to master the right technique of handling kettlebells.
It is therefore crucial for you to start your kettlebell workouts with the right size so that you can learn to maneuver it correctly.
Men of average height and weight with normal health conditions should start with a kettlebell weighing 16kg. Those who are already training with other equipments and have more strength and flexibility can try out a kettlebell weighing 24kg. Men of slighter build or those who do not consider themselves fit enough should begin kettlebell workouts with a 12kg weight.
Kettlebells for Women
Women, on the other hand, often tend to start their kettlebell workouts with a much lighter weight. They underestimate their own stamina and are scared of the heavy look of the solid cast iron ball. But the truth is that women are often stronger than they know and handling kettlebells is absolutely safe if the correct technique is followed.
Moreover, kettlebell training never makes you bulky with huge muscles so women will never look like bodybuilders.
Women of average build and normal activities can safely begin with kettlebells weighing 8kg. Those who train regularly can select kettlebells weighing 12 kg while those who lead an extremely sedentary lifestyle or do not have enough strength should start with 6kg weight.
Kettlebells for Controlled Movement
As mentioned above, kettlebell workouts with controlled movements such as the overhead press, windmill or Turkish get-up requires you to press the kettlebell overhead several times in one circuit. So if you are just starting with kettlebells, do select a weight that is light and easier to handle.