The Golden Age Strongman

Kettlebells have been in existence for quite some time, being widely popular among old-school strongmen, both in Russia and Western circles. The kettlebell has once again become a popular exercise tool due largely to the promotional efforts of strength and flexibility.

The kettlebell is a cast iron weight (resembling a cannonball with a handle) used to perform ballistic exercises that combine cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training.

Unlike traditional dumbbells, the kettlebell’s center of mass is extended beyond the hand, similar to a clubbell. This allows for a wide variety of ballistic and swinging movements.   By their nature, kettlebell exercises build strength and endurance, particularly in the lower back, legs, and shoulders, and increase grip strength.The basic movements, such as the swing, snatch, and the clean and jerk, engage the entire body at once, and in a way that mimics real world activities such as shoveling or farm work.