What is a Kettle Ball?

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

17 Dec 2006 01:21 PM

Have you ever seen a kettle ball? Have you heard of one? It's a new twist on a very old technique in the fitness world. Russian power lifters used a similar device for nearly a century and you've likely seen the large, silver object with the handgrip on the top.

Well, you have the right idea. The kettle ball itself looks like a cannon ball with a purse strap on the top. The kettle ball's design requires that you use your entire body in the lifting of it - unlike hand weights that isolate muscles - the kettle ball requires that you use your arms, legs and core to raise the ball in different forms of lifts.

Medical & Professional Advice

While the kettle ball is still a growing trend, it's a challenging one that engages you in a full body workout and therefore can be hard on your joints and your back. If you've experienced joint problems or back problems in the past, you are best advised to consult with your physician and potentially a personal trainer before you begin a kettle ball workout.

A kettle ball ranges in cost from $39.95 to $69.95 depending on the size and weight. They also range in weight from 10 to 30 lbs. This makes it a very affordable tool in your repertoire of exercise equipment and ideal for a home workout. But if you've never worked out with one before, you really don't want to just start without some help before hand.

There's not enough published on the subject and I've never used one myself, but now that I know they are out there - I'll do my best to bring you the best information and reviews on it that I can. Have you ever worked out with a kettle ball? If so, I'd love to hear what you have to say.

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Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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