Total fitness isn’t just achieved with a single physical activity. You might not know it yet but when you only work on one muscle, there is a pretty good chance you’ll overwork it, which could lead to injuries. Moreover, doing one fitness activity is not a guarantee you’ll be in the best shape of your life. This is why cross training is an ideal way to get fit because you get to work on all your muscles, you keep your routines interesting, and you get results.
But did you know that you could get more out of cross training by adding kettlebells? Those ball-shaped, cast-iron weights that used to be limited to weightlifters have now made their way to cross training. Beyond delivering whole body fitness, cross training with kettlebells offers multiple benefits, from quick weight loss to increased strength.
Kettlebells Are Great For Cross-Training
Twenty minutes of kettlebell training alone can burn the equivalent calories of running at a six-mile pace, as discovered by the American Council on Exercise. Not only that, if you intensify your training (with sufficient supervision so you don’t hurt yourself) and follow a good diet, you could stand to lose excess pounds every week.
You can do kettlebell swings with high reps; this technique will work your hamstrings, shoulders, back, glutes, and calves. Make sure to maintain a fluid motion so you avoid injuring your lower back. You can also try one-handed swings, which allow you to focus on one arm at a time. You can take up squats, too, which is one of many kettlebell exercises Chris Hemsworth did to transform into Thor for the big screen. Some kettlebell exercises to try as well include high pulls, walking lunges, deadlifts, and rows.
If you’re worried about kettlebells being much too heavy, know that they do come in different weights. So you don’t have to start with picking up 16 kilograms (which is 35.2 pounds) or the heavier 24 kilograms (which is 52.9 pounds). Kettlebell weights actually start with 4 kilograms, then 8 kilograms, 16 and so on. If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to start with 4 kilograms, and then you can work your way up to the heavier weight in increments. Learn more about Kettlebell weights here.
Using kettlebells with your cross training routines can help gain so much more results — in as fast a time as possible. You improve endurance and core strength. You get several variations, allowing you to maintain interest with your workout routine. You can also train just about anywhere. So get your whole body workout. And pick up a couple of kettlebells today.
If you’re already into Kettlebells and want to check out what other programs we recommend, then visit this page.
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