Archive: March 2007

Ring the bell!

Pick up a kettlebell and you can get fit—fast!

If you want to get a handle on fitness, a kettlebell workout may be for you. The kettlebell was developed in Russia in the 18th century as a training tool for strongmen and weightlifters. It looks like a cannonball with a handle, and training with it combines the technique and form of weightlifting with an endurance building workout.

It’s a workout that Gary Riggs, 56, said is one of the best he’s ever done.

“It’s so efficient,” he said. “It’s something I really enjoy doing and hope to continue to do during the foreseeable future.”

Kettlebells range in weight. You can purchase kettlebells in 9 lbs., 18 lbs., 35 lbs. increments. Old school Russian kettlebells come in “poods,” or about 35 lbs. Get strong enough and you might be able to lug the 106 lbs. kettlebell and be considered the top in the sport.

Working out with a kettlebell develops power, strength and burns fat. Grabbing the handle and putting your body into various positions, you can swing the bell, do a snatch, squat and the Turkish Getup, where you start laying on the back and holding the bell with a stretched out hand—then all you do is stand while holding your arm out.

“It’s hard and really works your core muscles,” Riggs said.

Riggs said his workouts last about 35 to 40 minutes a couple times a week. Kettlebells are said to replace barbells, dumbbells, medicine balls and cardio equipment. “I keep my kettlebells in the living room.”

The workout is becoming so popular that women, like Penelope Cruz, are doing the workouts. Fast, furious and efficient, they produce results—and it’s something different and fun.

Want to try it?

Get some flat-soled shoes and comfortable workout gear and try one of the following:

There are two ways to get involved with kettlebells. There are plenty of books and DVDs that show proper technique. Or, you can find a class. As of press time there aren’t any classes offered locally, but gyms have expressed an interest in providing a class if there is enough interest. Riggs works out at Go Workout on the south-side of Lansing. He said if you’re interested in contacting him for workout advice, e-mail him at eeyorekidding2@hotmail.com.