The SparkPeople Blog

6 Kettlebell Workout Routines

By: , SparkPeople Blogger
5/27/2013 6:00 AM   :  53 comments   :  132,675 Views

Just like fashion trends come and go, same can be said about workout trends. Hundreds of years ago Russian bodybuilders were using cannonball-like equipment for strength training. Little did they know then that their workouts would be turned into classes in gyms across the globe 300 years later. The reason kettlebell workouts are so popular is they provide strength training, cardio, balance and flexibility all in one short workout.

In the January 2011 issue of Fitness magazine, John Porcari, PhD, an exercise researcher at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, stated that "an intense 20-minute workout with kettlebells burned on average, an astonishing 400 calories, or 20 calories a minute."

If you have never used kettlebells, you may want to check with your local gym or Y to see if they offer classes for beginners led by a certified kettlebell instructor as form and technique are very important when doing this type of workout routine. Poor form and technique can lead to injury and you may not get the results you expect.

One of the biggest advantage with kettlebell workouts is they tend to target all the major muscle groups during a workout which is why I have included workout routines in place of individual exercises for this week's fitness round-up.

Here is a link to a video demonstration on how to do the 2-Hand Swing led by SparkPeople member Zorbs13, an Agatsu-certified kettlebell instructor. Not only does she demonstrate proper form, but she demonstrates proper breathing during the exercise.

Fitness Magazine Kettlebell Workout Routine

Self Magazine Kettlebell Workout Routine

Prevention Magazine Kettlebell Workout Routine

Women's Health Magazine Kettlebell Workout Routine

Health Magazine Kettlebell Workout Routine

FitSugar Kettlebell Workout Routine

Have you ever used kettlebells or taken a class using them? Would this be a workout routine you would like to incorporate into your current exercise regimine?


Click here to to redeem your SparkPoints
  You will earn 3 SparkPoints
 

NEXT ENTRY >   Success Story: 'I Feel So Much Better Now!'

Comments

  • 53
    I think the suggested kettlebell workouts are great if you have used kettlebells before. But as someone who just began using them a couple of weeks ago, I would strongly suggest having a training session first. I signed up for an 8-week kettlebell class for one night a week and I love it. My body hurt like hell the after the first class, but three weeks in and I only feel my muscles during the workout....which is a major accomplishment. The class is small in size, mostly women, with all physical abilities, from 20-somethings to seniors. But the best thing is that if your form is incorrect the trainer is there to let you know. You can't get that from a video. Having the right form during a kettlebell workout not only provides you with the most efficient burn, but it keeps you from injuring yourself. - 3/6/2013   2:41:47 PM
  • SJM28411
    52
    Check out www.livefitrevolution.org for kettlebell training and support. They also have diet, recipe and support resources. - 2/25/2013   12:28:54 PM
  • MZNAYLUV
    51
    I bought a kettlebell, I just need to actually start using it! Thanks for the workouts. - 2/15/2013   2:35:39 PM
  • 50
    Can someone recommend a good beginner workout for someone that is not currently in shape? I got a kettlebell with a Bob Harper DVD but it's a bit too advanced for me right now. Thank you! - 1/25/2013   4:15:18 AM
  • 49
    I love my kettlebell! As an apartment dweller, it's useful to have a few exercises that burn a lot of calories without jumping around. - 10/12/2012   10:26:55 AM
  • 48
    Kettlebells are my exercise routine of choice. Though I have several exercise videos, I still go back to the Kettlebell Konnection by GoFit.net which came with my first 7lb kettlebell two years ago. Now I'm comfortable with the 10lb kettlebell and still doing this workout. Love it! - 4/14/2012   9:15:20 AM
  • 47
    I LOVE my Kettlebells - wouldn't do strength training any other way. - 4/9/2012   8:17:29 AM
  • 46
    I LOVE kettlebells. I have been working out with them for 4+ years now and no matter what else I have tried, I always get the best results with KBs. If you haven't tried them I recommend working out with someone who knows what they are doing. - 2/15/2012   12:35:01 PM
  • KIMBERALLY
    45
    A trainer who will teach proper form before giving it a try at home.
    ______________
    Kims

    - 7/21/2011   2:45:23 AM
  • ROJALIE
    44
    Hi friends it is good to say the workout routine is going rapidly in our country, so i thankful to all people to do it.
    ====================
    - 6/23/2011   4:27:34 AM
  • LFKEARNEY
    43
    I love my kettlebells. I have at home a 10, 15, 20 and two 25 lbs. I reserve the 10 to practice moves I haven't really mastered. I've been swinging for about a year but have really gotten into it in the past 6 months. I just finished the 21 day kettlebell swing challenges, and it has made me so much stronger, it's amazing. - 3/29/2011   11:33:36 AM
  • 42
    I LOVE, LOVE working out with kettlebells. Four rounds of swings, squats and Turkish get-ups is a good a workout as anything else you can do in the gym. - 3/12/2011   10:20:48 PM
  • 41
    I got a set of kettlebells for by birthday on Feb 11, 2011. 5lbs, 10 lbs and 15 lbs. I am working my way up slowly to 30 min but even 10 min gets your heart pumping. Great article...Donna - 3/2/2011   5:40:49 AM
  • 40
    HI -I got a 10 lb. kettlebell for Christmas-I went and bought a 5 and 8 lb. one soon after. I started low and slow and I'm happy that mine came with 3 work outs. On days when I felt strong I just used a higher wt. - 2/9/2011   5:41:39 PM
  • GODLYPSALMIST17
    39
    I saw the infomercial for KettleWorx this morning i am very interested in trying this workout. - 1/14/2011   11:17:04 AM
  • ELLEKELL
    38
    I asked for and received an 8 lb. kettlebell for Christmas after I had seen a kettlebell workout in Prevention magazine. I am eager to get started with this workout, especially after reading these posts! - 1/12/2011   7:00:24 PM
  • MRSMYS
    37
    I have tried kettlebells after much research. I bought 2 -10 lb kettlebells and purchased 2 dvds from prevention off of amazon. I really did get a full body work out in about 30 minutes. I was doing the demonstration and beginner workout, sweating profusely with my heart really pumping. - 1/11/2011   10:24:24 PM
  • 36
    I go to a kettlebell class at the gym. - 1/10/2011   11:48:05 AM
  • KBELLQUEEN
    35
    There is not a more versatile tool than kettlebells. I have had continued success with thousands of people on an International level with my kettlebell DVD's. You can view them at this website.

    http://www.ontheedgefitness.com /

    It's amazing how strong and lean you can get with such a short workout. Happy New Year and enjoy your kettlebells! - 1/4/2011   3:07:12 PM
  • PAMELALANDIS
    34
    I'll have to try these. They look different and fun. Thanks. Pam - 1/4/2011   10:56:00 AM
  • KRAZY84
    33
    gonna have to give this a try this year! - 1/3/2011   11:45:15 AM
  • 32
    For those who are excited about kettlebells after reading this article, I wanted to point you the two Kettlebell SparkTeams here on SparkPeople. One is just plain "Kettlebells" and the other is "The Kettlebell Challenge". Feel free to jump over to the teams to ask questions or to get some advice. - 1/1/2011   10:17:55 PM
  • 31
    These are all great workout ideas. I have a 5 lb but want to get an 8lb and will save this blog and try these moves for a different type of strength training. Thanks! - 1/1/2011   7:49:50 PM
  • KATIECAN3
    30
    I will make this part of my weekly routine. I like to rotate different types of exersize to keep my body crazed. - 1/1/2011   9:24:19 AM
  • 29
    I love using kettlebells. My gym has several different weights. - 12/30/2010   8:03:53 PM
  • 1LUCKY1
    28
    I have been a swinger for over 2 years and love it. My posture has improved, my bone density has improved and I can do it anywhere! I use both an 8kg and 12 kg bell depending on the exercise. My coach does a good job of making sure everything is done correctly to avoid injury. Kettlebells have really mad a difference in how I feel. - 12/30/2010   7:13:09 PM
  • 27
    Been looking at these for a while... just tried the prevention link workout with a dumbbell and I am sold.
    I will be getting a kettlebell and doing the workout a few times a week. Doing the routine, I could feel it in my core; and I am constantly doing propreoceptive core work. Looking forward to the challenge!
    Dianne - 12/30/2010   2:47:01 PM
  • 26
    I've seen these around, and thought about trying them. After reading this and looking at the routines, I just may do it. Thanks. - 12/30/2010   12:24:46 PM
  • 25
    sunny thanks for the link i would need to take a class or i might hurt some one or my self lol - 12/30/2010   12:21:08 PM
  • 24
    Actually kettle bells most likely originated in Scotland and not Russia. If you check pictures of gyms of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries you will see rack upon rack of kettle bells. Almost all the old time strong men used them and posed with them. They remained popular in Russia long after they disappeared from most other gyms which is why they have the current Russian label. While the current craze has been largely the result of the work of Pavel Tzatzouline this is one more example of a time test exercise tool being "rediscovered" just as Indian Clubs have been "rediscovered". - 12/30/2010   12:15:53 PM
  • 23
    WARNING! Research these first! Make sure you understand proper form and which size is appropriate for you FIRST! Don't just jump into using these or you will hurt yourself. They are wonderful for all the reasons listed in the article, but safety must come first. They are quite heavy and can do lots of damage if dropped or used the wrong way.
    I did a lot of reading up on them before making my purchase (they are a little pricey too), and am so glad I did. It made using them that much more enjoyable.
    I love mine! - 12/30/2010   10:56:02 AM
  • 22
    Kettlebells are going to be my workout of choice. Other articles I've read say kettlebells balance out weak muscles and increase flexibility which I need! - 12/30/2010   9:24:51 AM
  • 21
    I switched to kettlebells a year ago. I was really just looking for something new to try because of burnout. I like them so much that I dont do any other type structured workouts. The work outs are intense and you get the benifits of cardio and strength training all at the same time. The added bonus is workout times are shorter but I feel that I get a better work out. A word for the wise. Get help when first starting out. My advice find a certified trainer or order a program over the internet. Kettleworxs would be a good start. There are other programs out there just have to look and find the one you feel comfortable with. In closing Kettlebells rock. Try it you will like it. - 12/30/2010   9:08:30 AM
  • 20
    I haven't tried them yet, but want to! - 12/30/2010   8:45:26 AM
  • 19
    Kettlebells provide the best workout ever. Highly recommend for anyone that wants to get in shape or improve. I suggest taking a class to maximize the benefit.
    I would never push myself as hard as when in the class. Never!
    Super intense workout. We also do non-kettlebell exercises in class, and the routine changes with every class. - 12/30/2010   8:11:39 AM
  • 18
    I LOVE SparkPeople! Pretty much any question can be answered. Thanks for introducing us to another option. There was also an earlier article that mentioned the "right" weight of Kettlebell for a person is often heavier than one would expect, so I would encourage taking a class with a certified instructor if at all possible. We are fortunate to have CrossFit here, and I've tried the Kettlebell in one of their free weekly introductory classes. - 12/30/2010   4:06:08 AM
  • 17
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhZg
    NKII4rw
    This is the routine from YouTube that I use and really love. Steve Cotter has great work outs on YouTube as he is a Kbell expert, too.
    I have 2 10# Kbells that work great for me. - 12/30/2010   1:32:31 AM
  • CLECTIC-WANDRER
    16
    I saw the article in Fitness Magazine and thought it would be something interesting to try out at home, while I'm watching movies. - 12/30/2010   12:23:12 AM
  • FITMAMA2JH
    15
    I just used my kettleball for the first time today with Jillian Michaels Shred It With Weights DVD. I did level 1 and it was definitely a workout! Loved it!!! Will definitely be incorporating this into my workout routine - 12/29/2010   11:31:58 PM
  • 14
    Looking for more workout ideas for home. Y is getting too expensive. - 12/29/2010   10:44:39 PM
  • 13
    Thanks for the ideas. I've been curious about kettleball workouts for a while but had no idea how to do them! - 12/29/2010   10:33:12 PM
  • 12
    First time I heard of kettlebells, I thought, oh another fad....however, after watching the personal trainer at http://www.kettleworx.com / I decided to give it a try. I bought a 10 lb. danskin ball, but the trainers were smaller more compact, which I like better. I have also bought the DVD's promoted on the kettleworx web site.

    My first time I used them, I did not have ANY idea what they would do. I was not able to cool down, and paid for it , with being so very sore for 4 days!
    Needless to say, they are something else! - 12/29/2010   10:21:15 PM
  • 11
    I purchased the Kettlebell after reading the article in Prevention. I've only used it once, so far, but I Love it! I plan to begin testing out the 3-wk program on Jan 1st & track my progress & the changes in my body. Thank you for the additional articles you've posted. They'll come in handy after my 3wk 'beginner' routine. I've saved them to my Favorites and will use the various routines to keep my workouts 'fresh'! - 12/29/2010   10:14:12 PM
  • 10
    No, I never have done a kettleball workout. Not sure if I would be interested.
    I will have to check out the demo video. There is something about swinging around a heavy piece of equipment that makes me nervous. - 12/29/2010   9:21:45 PM
  • 9
    My trainer often incorporates the kettlebell into my workouts and it certainly bumps up the intensity! I've never taken a class but I've seen one and it looks like an awesome challenge. I'll have to give it a try. :) - 12/29/2010   9:18:04 PM
  • BLUEJAYKIM
    8
    Great article and what a way to burn calories! I'm going to see if one of the gyms in my city offers a kettlebell class! - 12/29/2010   9:09:01 PM
  • 7
    I love going to kettlebell class! I usually go twice a week for a 45 minute class. It's worth finding a trainer who will teach proper form before giving it a try at home.

    My husband goes to class with me once a week now too!
    - 12/29/2010   8:36:53 PM
  • HAPPYLISA17
    6
    Kettlebells are awesome but be careful when you are first starting out. When I first started my rotar cup (I think) felt torn and out of whack so I had to not do k-bells for about 6 weeks while it healed. But, when you complete this quick workout, you will feel awesome - like you are really getting something out of your workout! - 12/29/2010   8:19:30 PM
  • MADDIE10281
    5
    Interested in trying one - 12/29/2010   7:59:50 PM
  • 4
    I LOVE my kettlebells...just got a heavier one under the Christmas tree! - 12/29/2010   7:47:40 PM

Please Log In To Leave A Comment:    Log in now ›


Join SparkPeople.com

Sign up for a FREE SparkPeople account