Kettlebells

**vaglocker** · 01-20-10, 07:37

I would recommend Pavel Tsatsouline's "Enter the Kettlebell" video and book

powerbypavel.com

**Chameleox** · 01-20-10, 11:33

Prior to becoming a sheepdog, I was a personal trainer for 5 years. I had a large client base, taught classes, and had certifications. Then, while still training, I got introduced to Crossfit, and their methodology for designing workouts. I immediately saw a benefit to crossfit for "working" fitness types.
Then about 6 years ago I left my city and became a cop elsewhere. I kept crossfitting(?), and saw a definite advantage over other more traditional workout programs.
I've been using K-bells for almost 2 years now. Combined with crossfit type workouts, I don't think it can be beat for developing stamina, strength, and even flexibility. Unfortunately, if you're looking for instruction, very few gyms will have crossfit or crossfit-like instructors or trainers. FEWER will have K-Bell instructors. Some will outright prohibit crossfit or k-bell training out of fear over branding/copyright issues or injury liability. I dunno...
Outside of finding a smaller iron house with a small but dedicated client base (expect small or 1 on 1 classes, and a commensurate cost) the best source for instruction has been the internet. Crossfit.com is especially good for videos and instruction.

**Zhurdan** · 01-20-10, 11:47

Originally Posted by wilco423

The second exercise I would recommend is the get-up, sometimes called the turkish get-up. It's fantastic for shoulders, abs and pretty much every other muscle in your body. Once you get good at these two, there are tons of other exercises you can do.
Dan

Wilco,
I'd like to kick you in the nuts for suggesting the Turkish get-up. I did a couple sets last night with only 20 lbs and I almost had to call in a small boom truck to get my ass out of bed this morning. That's one hell of a workout! Thanks for the info!

**ras61541** · 01-21-10, 07:53

There is so much you can do with kettlebells, and if you are careful most of it can be done indoors. KB Swings are a big one that comes to mind just make sure you have plenty of room and don't let go of the damn thing. Also look into snatches, turkish get ups, lunges... you can do about anything with a good set of kettlebells... i love them.

**Pathfinder Ops** · 01-21-10, 09:00

What I like also is that they travel well.

My company takes me on the road a bit doing training and consulting and I can just throw them in and go. Then I don't have to wory about the BS fitness centers at the hotels.

No good if I fly however but since a fair amount of my travel is drive to stuff this works.

She got me 2 35lb KB's.

I see a lot of options in these.

**wilco423** · 01-21-10, 10:32

Zhurdan- yeah, they can be rough at first

. If you keep with them, your shoulders and core will thank you!

Ras- a key point about retention! They work your grip something fierce (especially if you have ones with thick handles).

+1 on the crossfit info - easily the hardest workout I've ever had was at a crossfit gym.

**dbldragon** · 01-29-10, 23:26

Check this out if you are interested in kettlebell training.

http://www.iwantredemption.com/

**Chameleox** · 01-30-10, 10:59

Jeff Martone's site is also good. Works with Crossfit, Pavel, and Blauer a lot. I'm hoping to pick us a book or video from him soon, or get to a seminar somewhere in the upper midwest.
www.tacticalathlete.com