One adjustable-weight and adjustable-handle configuration Kettle Bell or multiple individual Kettle Bells?
Hi Tom,
I opted to purchase an adjustable weight kettle bell. I do not use it all that often, and as I share the studio only with my husband, there is no competition for it. I also did not want to use up a lot of space for all those bells.
Frankly, my clients did not get to weigh in on that.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
Multiple individual kettle bells. The reason is that if the weights and handle are adjustable, then the kettle bell will have a different shape with each weight or handle change. You would have to alter the way you handle the kettle bell each time you change the weight and/or handle. Not exactly the best use of time if you had to retrain yourself to accomodate for the tool.
Remember that a kettle bell is not a dumbbell or a barbell. Both of those equipments are designed for symmetry and balance. In other words, your form should not change just because the weight gets heavier. The way you move a 1 lb dumbbell is the same as a 100 lb dumbbell.
Not so for kettlebells. A 2 kg kettle bell won’t move the same way as a 16 kg kettle bell (especially if one is using hard style kettle bells, in which the size increases as the weight goes up). If you are investing in kettle bells to use, definitely use the pro grade kettle bells, where the size and shape remains the same regardless of weight. You’ll spend less time having to relearn how to use a kettle bell each time you move up in weight. It may cost more, but it will be better for your training (and that of your clients) in the long run.
I agree that multiple kettlebells is the way to go if the kettlebells are all the same size regardless of weight, as is the case with pro-grade kettlebells (as mentioned above) and other styles–such as the Valery Fedorenko performance bells. But the real issue is dimension. I would have no problem with adjustable weight kettlebells if they are able to make them adjustable in weight and still maintain a consistent dimension. But that would be a rare find.
Albeit, in answering the question on the table, there is some consideration for the type of training you do with the kettlebell. Many people are adapting their use for a wide range of exercises, many departing from exercises that utilize the true benefits of a kettlebell’s dynamic movement. To each their own, but they may be able to do what they want with any kind of kettlebell.
All that aside, to get the full benefits of kettlebells, I suggest fixed dimensions and kettlebell-specific exercises. Otherwise, quality of reps will be compromised, and such a compromise can easily lead to injury.
Hello Tom Scheu,
It depends on what you want to get out of it. Maybe you could wait a while to see what kinds of improvements are being made before making a decision.
Space is always an issue; so is the proper form during exercise.
Although, we all need to move that awkward item once in a while.
The difference is, we do not do many repetitions with that awkward item, hopefully.
Take care.