KETTLEBELLS

“It’s great because it brings cardio and strength training together in one quick exercise,” says Michael Shade, kettlebell instructor at Sports Club/LA in Miami. “Instead of lifting weights for a half hour and then doing the treadmill for another half hour, you can get everything done with kettlebells in 20 minutes.”

How do you get an effective core and cardio workout in less than 30 minutes?

Through the unique weight training and cardio workout that comes with lifting and swinging a kettlebell.

What makes a Kettlebell workout different from other weights workouts?

“The reason the kettlebell is so great is that there’s an offset center of gravity,” explains Laura Alton, a certified trainer, physical therapist, and Russian kettlebells certified instructor at the Cooper Fitness Center in Dallas.

That means your body has to work harder to maintain balance. In so doing, you you work many different muscle groups- and get your heart rate up at the same time. “It’s a two-fer, you’re killing two birds with one kettlebell,” says Riva Rahl, MD, medical director for wellness programs at the Cooper Fitness Center. “If you’re doing it appropriately, the benefits are huge.”

The American Kettlebell Club estimates that more than 100,000 people are exercising with them. Many claim it takes weight and inches off faster than any other workout they’ve tried.

Benefits of a Kettlebell Workout

• Provides a quick workout (30 mins or less)
• Targets all major muscle groups
• Increases core stability
• Combines cardio & strength training
• Simplifies your workout