The top 4 reasons you should work out with kettlebells

Kettlebells are shaped like cannonballs with an offset handle and are relatively small compared to other fitness tools.

They work every part of your body, including your cardio vascular system and are great if you want to get a workout away from the gym.

Here are her four reasons why you should make kettlebell training part of your workout routine. Click here for a guide on to how to use your kettlebells.

1. Functional training tools

Working out with a kettlebell is the definition of what some fitness pros call “functional training” as they help you reclaim a true plane of movement.

Many kettlebell movements consist of lots of multi-joint resistance exercises that attempt to mimic the way the body was designed to move and improve your ability to achieve everyday activities such as picking up an infant or carrying heavy shopping bags.

2. Improves athleticism

The magic of the kettlebell appears to have something to do with its cannonball shape and the offset handle which allow you to manipulate it differently than you could with a dumbbell, barbell or any other training device.

The shape and the handle allow you to perform faster movements. Almost all sports are based on fast, short movements and therefore using a kettlebell can take your conditioning to a very high level.

3. Help you build strength and flexibility

Kettlebells allow you to perform unique exercises, which improve your joint strength and flexibility as well as your strength and conditioning.

The basic swing has a great hamstring stretch and other exercises such as the windmill and single leg deadlift also build flexibility and strength.

4. Work your core muscles

Using kettlebells stimulates a tremendous amount of abdominal contraction because of the explosive conditioning movements that it requires. Essentially, this means you’re working your abs even when you’re “not working” your abs.