Kettleballs - An Old Idea Made New in Strength Training

Kettlebells are one of the latest trends in the world of strength training although they have roots in 18th century Russia. However, Russians are not the only ones using the devices as they have become available worldwide and people continue to learn the benefits of this workout device.

A kettlebell looks like a cannonball with a handle and used for extreme all around fitness. Even though the popularity of kettlebells decreased over the past 100 years, they are again gaining popularity because adjustable designs are offering new possibilities with the device. In fact, it can be used to replace many other pieces of equipment including barbells; belts for dips and weighted pullups; cardio equipment; dumbbells; grip devices; lever bars; medicine balls; and thick bars.

Professional strength trainers are not the only ones to make use of the kettlebell, or girya as it is known in Russia. All types of fitness enthusiasts, professional athletes, law enforcement officers, martial artists and U.S. military personnel use kettlebells because of its potential to mimic real life situations that may not be possible with other strength endurance equipment.

Kettlebell workouts are for both men and women and can help with many exercising goals including fat loss. However, there are specially designed kettleballs for women with thin handles for easier gripping. You can get kettleballs in many weight sizes from 10 pounds to 106 pounds individually. If you work with them in pairs, you might get two 26-pound balls or two balls weighing 70 pounds each.