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KettleBell Workout Growing Popular In U.S. Gyms

Links: Russian KettleBells | American Council on Exercise | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(KDKA) An old type of Russian weight training is popping up in gyms across the United States.

It's a way to tone your body, cut fat and get your cardio all in one tiny little package.

"The KettleBell is basically a cannonball with a handle," says Angela Sundberg, a personal trainer.

KettleBells were originally used by the Russians to increase strength and endurance. Now, American gyms are embracing the cast iron weights.

"You have one piece of equipment you can use anywhere, take anywhere and it's virtually indestructible," says Sundberg. "For fat loss you probably can't beat it."

Rachel Sahlman and Jim Montague have been taking KettleBell classes for more than two years.

"Probably one of the best core workouts you could ever get," says Sahlman.

"I got like the best workout of all the workouts I've ever done," adds Montague.

KettleBells weigh from four to 106 pounds. Experts say what makes them so popular is the all around fitness you get in such a short amount of time.

"You can spend two hours a week using KettleBells, maybe 15, 20 minutes a day and get the same benefits if you were running four or five hours," says Sundberg.

She says you work up a sweat by swinging the KettleBell up and down and into various positions. These movements teach you to use your body more efficiently.

"Lots of people have told me that after doing KettleBells for a while, their shoulder and back pain has been eliminated," Sundberg says.

To avoid injury, experts suggest getting some initial instruction on the use of the KettleBells before beginning a workout.

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