Picking up an 8kg Kettlebell feels a lot different to picking up an 8kg dumbbell. This is because the majority of the weight is off centered. This usually means people underestimate the amount of weight they should use. Very light Kettlebells are fairly pointless and you will gain no real benefit from them.
Many of the major Kettlebell exercises focus on the bottom and legs. These are very strong muscles, the most powerful in your body. To stimulate them you have to use a weight that challenges them, otherwise they will not engage, you waste your workout and never end up with a bum that can crush walnuts.
Everyone has a right to use whatever weight they want but as a guide, this is what I recommend.
Choose Your Kettlebell -
Please be advised this is only a guide
Kettlebell Weight |
Female |
Male |
8Kg |
Complete beginner to kettlebells |
|
12Kg |
Average fitness |
No past exercise experience, under 16yrs or over 65yrs |
16Kg |
Very fit, train regularly |
Complete Beginner |
20Kg |
Should have previous KB experience |
Average Fitness, exercises regularly |
24Kg |
Atheltic with previous KB experience |
Very Fit, exercises regulary |
24Kg - 40 Kg |
|
Should have KB experience |