Use the size of your hands as a guide when considering a kettlebell’s handle diameter. Heavier bells will have diameters of approximately 38 mm. Smaller bells will typically have a diameter of about 30 mm. For example, a 13-pound kettlebell will have a handle with a smaller diameter than a 16-pound kettlebell. In general, the diameter of a kettlebell’s handle will increase as the weight goes up. The size of a kettlebell’s handle can make a big difference in how comfortable it is to hold. If you feel a rough, raised seam, it’s best to try another model.
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Inexpensive kettlebells often don’t have this seam removed, which leaves a sharp edge that can cut your skin when you grip the handle.Īlways feel along the underside of the handle before you purchase a kettlebell. Higher-end brands will file down the seam to create a smooth, even surface. If the seam isn’t treated, it can be uncomfortable to grip the handle.
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When the iron is cast for the kettlebells, a seam is left across the center of the handle’s underside. As a result, the handle isn’t as secure as in a one-piece assembly, which means it’s possible the handle could snap or break off. With a two-piece assembly, the handle is a separate piece, attached to the kettlebell’s ball. That means you don’t have to worry about the ball falling off as you swing the kettlebell around. With a one-piece casting, the handle and ball of the kettlebell are actually one continuous piece. Kettlebells are typically made in two ways: via a one-piece casting or a two-piece assembly. When this is the case, the bell doesn’t precisely match the weight measurement indicated. However, the vinyl coating is prone to cracking and peeling, and the weight of the kettlebells is often inaccurate because the iron beneath may contain holes that are filled with another material. Vinyl kettlebells also feature cast iron, but the metal is coated with a layer of vinyl to keep the weight from damaging your floor if it falls. Cast-iron models are also extremely durable, so you can trust that your equipment will last for years. Because they only contain one material, they tend to provide the most accurate weight measurements. When purchasing kettlebells, you usually have to choose between two materials: cast iron and vinyl.Īs their name implies, cast-iron kettlebells are made from solid cast iron. You can easily stash your kettlebells in a closet or under the bed, and you will still get the same intense workout you’d get from a five-minute sprint. You don’t need to make room for a bench or barbell set in your den or shove your treadmill in a corner of your guest room. Kettlebells can be worked into a variety of exercise forms, too, so you can use them with strength and power training, as well as with traditional cardio workouts such as running.īest of all, kettlebells don’t take up much space in your home. The workouts utilize smooth, swinging transitions so your shoulders, elbows, and knees don’t take as much of a beating as they would with jump training. If you have issues with achy joints, kettlebells also tend to be easier on the body. Best of all, they actually combine the best of a cardio and strength training workout so you never have to choose between the two again.
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When you swing them, you can elevate your heart rate quickly and burn up to 20 calories per minute, which is often more than you’d do in a cardio class at the gym. There’s a good reason why they’ve become such a popular workout tool in recent years.įirst of all, kettlebells can provide an incredible workout. If you haven’t worked out with kettlebells before, you may not know what all the fuss is about. Kettlebells originated in Russia in the 18th century as a means to weigh crops and dry goods for market. With so many options available, choosing the ideal kettlebell can definitely be a challenge. Finding the right model means knowing what materials to look for, what type of handles best meet your needs, and the proper weight to give you the best workout. They’re more versatile than the same old hand weights, though, so you can create an exercise regime that’s tailored to your specific fitness goals.īuying a kettlebell probably doesn’t seem that difficult, but many factors actually affect how well this equipment fits into your workout routine. Home fitness equipment provides an effective workout and certainly makes sticking to your exercise goals a little easier – and kettlebells definitely have a place in your home workout regimen. Unlike a treadmill or elliptical, kettlebells probably aren’t going to become an eyesore in the corner of your bedroom and still provide a few heart-pounding workouts. Getting in shape requires a commitment, but making it to the gym every day can be tough.