\u201cKettlebells offer you a versatility that dumbbells don\u2019t,\u201d she says. \u201cThe shape of the bell challenges you [to move] in new ways\u2014so you have to be a little bit more connected to the bell as you\u2019re using it.\u201d<\/p>\n
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I\u2019ve been keen to add more kettlebell work into my training since speaking with trainer Steve Stonehouse, who told me that the kettlebell swing is one of the best moves for longevity<\/a>.<\/p>\n So, I asked Thompson Rule for her advice on buying kettlebells and which weights to invest in. Here\u2019s what she recommends.<\/p>\n Buy two or three different weights<\/p>\n Thompson Rule leads a series of kettlebell classes on the Peloton<\/a> app. She says her routines often require three different weights: something light, something mid-range, and something heavy.<\/p>\n \u201cFor a beginner, I might suggest something like a 4kg, 8kg, and 12kg bell,\u201d she says, which is roughly a 9lb, 18lb and 26lb spread.<\/p>\n Opt for a traditional shape<\/p>\n \u201cSome companies have tried to get really creative with the shape of the bell, but how they were originally shaped is the best way,\u201d says Thompson Rule.<\/p>\n Look for a kettlebell with a round-shaped weight, a flat bottom and a rounded handle.<\/p>\n Avoid kettlebells with sharp corners or unusual handles, as they can make exercises like the clean or snatch harder to do and more uncomfortable.<\/p>\n Stick to solid materials<\/p>\n You can buy a sandbag kettlebell, which can be handy to save space or to adjust the weight, but it might not be as durable as traditional ones made from metal.<\/p>\n If you want something that really lasts, Thompson Rule suggests going for cast-iron.<\/p>\n Protect your wrist with padding<\/p>\n If you\u2019re new to kettlebell training, you\u2019ll inevitably bash your wrists as you learn how to do certain kettlebell moves.<\/p>\n \u201cEven if you\u2019re just doing an overhead press with straight wrists\u2014which is how you should do it\u2014there is a level of pressure on your forearm and wrist from the bell,\u201d says Thompson Rule.<\/p>\n The trainer often ties a bandana around her wrist to give it some cushioning, but you can wear sweat bands, which can work just as well as added wrist protection. Wrist guards<\/a> are also available.<\/p>\n Quick shopping linksKettlebell Black Friday deals \n <\/a><\/p>\n CAP Cast Iron Competition Weight Kettlebell\u201418lb<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \n <\/a><\/p>\n Yes4All Powder Coated Kettlebell\u201435lb<\/p>\n
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