Archive: February 2008

Kettlebell Crazy

Jackson's Work-Fit pushes and swings kettlebells as an effective fitness solution

Anyone who has ever tried a kettlebell workout knows how effective the cast iron weight, that looks like a cannonball with a handle, can be for weight loss, muscle building and overall fitness.It’s so effective that employees and members of the Michigan Department of Corrections Work-Fit Health and Fitness Program, located in Jackson next to the state prison, have banded together to start their own classes with amazing results.

"It’s one of our most popular programs," said Traci Jo Hubbard, Work-Fit’s program manager. "Since we rolled it out in August 2007, more than 420 people have taken advantage of the program."

The current program is conducted with the help of a video, "The Art of Strength: Providence." Kettlebells became popular with Russian weightlifters because of the all-around fitness benefits.

A workout consists of grabbing the handle and putting your body into various positions. You can swing the bell. Do a snatch. Squat with it, or do the Turkish Getup, where you start by lying on your back and holding the bell with a stretched out hand. Then all you have to do is stand while holding your arm out.

Each exercise builds lean muscle and burns fat. Trainers suggest that women, who are just beginning with this workout, start with an 10 pound kettle ball, while men start with a 24 pound kettlebell.

"It really is an intense, full body workout that you can do in a short period of time," said Mike Dickey, a staff specialist at Work-Fit who introduced the program to members. "We’ve had amazing feedback from those who have done it. It’s a fun program and it really works."

"This program combines cardio and weights into one workout," added Deb Scutt, 50. Scutt is a warden and said the program is engaging enough to keep her motivated.

"There is something about a complete, concentrated and all out workout that is a great stress relief. You’re tired, but really energized when you’re finished."

Russ Wahtola, 38, of Jackson agrees. "There is so much variety in a workout that it keeps me in shape," Wahtola said. "It’s a great workout that has benefits."

Dickey predicted that kettlebells will soon be one of the most popular workouts due to the effectiveness of the workout. Add that to the availability of the once hard-to-get equipment, and he may be right. Dicks’, MC Sporting Goods as well as other sporting good stores have begun to carry the kettlebells.

The Work-Fit program is only available for Michigan Department of Correction employees, but Dickey said they’d be happy to help point future kettlebellers to the right resources.

Call them at 517.780.6002.