As an Instructor that is blessed to be exposed to and connected with hundreds of trainees on a weekly basis, I continuously hear "kettlebell stories"; some are good, most are bad. I recently wrote an article in the Kettlebell Sport & Fitness Magazine outlining the concerns and issues related to having quality instruction in kettlebells.
This note serves as a reiteration and some expansion. The bad stories I hear always have to do with the fact that kettlebells are used in class settings or personal training where the professional involved has little to no prior or current practice/training in kettlebells. I can not stress enough, that this Art form of training should be treated as a martial art. Instruction should, at the very least, be given by someone who is vested in the training; as a way of life, or practicing on a daily/weekly basis. Certifications don't necessarily qualify people to instruct, just as a black belt doesn't qualify a person to teach. Certification is a great FIRST step, and depending on who/where you receive your training,it could be a decent first step or excellent first step.
What does make the difference, is the level of exposure and training that is received:
- What is the philosophy behind the training organization/style?
Safety, technique and progression should be among the top answers here.
- What were the key messages or points transmitted?
Safety, technique and purpose should be the main points here
- Can your instructor/trainer demonstrate flawless technique and explain it to you or class in a clear
and concise way?
People, you are moving a dense iron object around; You SHOULD be asking questions!!
There is an increasing trend of Trainers, Health Club Management and the like, viewing kettlebell training as simply another tool or "toy" in the entertainment of clientele. This is NOT a dumbbell, or a barbell, or a medicine ball.. Thank God! This tool DOES NOT act the same, DOES NOT effect the body the same as other training implements. If you come across instruction, workshops, seminars, etc... ASK QUESTIONS about the experience and amount of exposure the instructor has; and hopefully YES - you will be in for a life changing experience with kettlebells. If not, then there is NO excuse, not to seek out quality instruction;
The Kettlebell community is growing exponentially!
- What is the right kettlebell to train with?
There are different types, mainly Sports Bells and Fitness bells. Each has its own purpose and application.
In certain training situations, use can be crossed over. Also just because equipment is sold at a major sports retailer doesn't mean it will be useful. I've seen people purchase a bell that isn't even designed to be used correctly! i.e. handle too short to clean effectively.
Kettlebell training is here to stay. I see it thriving more each day, each week. I love it. Please understand that the more informed you are, the more effective and fun your experiences in training can be. It has always been my vision that every person will own a bell and use it as regularly as they brush their teeth or eat a meal. Human beings are a hardy species, don't forget that! If you have ailments or injuries, find a way to correct them and bring yourself back to the better side of health.
Rick Carranza
Chief Instructor
Co-Founder
