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Kettlebell Craze

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Word has spread that kettlebell training has gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts as well as athletes.

What are Kettlebells?
Iron Quest Fitness says: "Kettlebells are an ancient weight training tool shaped like a cannonball with a thick handle. They range in weight from 4kg (9lbs) to 24kg (53lbs) and are quickly becoming the strength tool of choice for athletes, coaches and trainers. . . reap muscular strength, endurance, flexibility and cardiovascular benefits with every workout. Kettlebells offer a full body workout and participants never get bored, as the combinations of exercises one can do with kettlebells are endless!"   Furthermore . . . "Kettlebells combine many training protocols simultaneously:

Core strength - kettlebell movements teach the body to stabilize the core as almost all movements are done free-standing.

Strength - kettlebell training develops strength in ALL planes of movement. We live and play in a three-dimensional world and we should train accordingly.

Flexibility/Mobility - kettlebell training promotes the body to "open" up due to the nature of multi-planer movement and promotes increased range-of-motion in the joints.

Balance and Stability - kettlebell training is off-centered and focused, calling for tremendous attention to balance as the weight travels through the air.

Coordination - kettlebell training teaches "connection" of your upper and lower body. This element provides athletes a superior edge in their training protocol due to greater body rhythm and awareness.

Acceleration/Deceleration - most training protocols address acceleration but not deceleration which is why most athletes get injured in a "deceleration" mode. Kettlebell training addresses both acceleration and deceleration, therefore enhancing athletic performance.

Load/Explode - kettlebell training offers a different type of loading that allows the athlete to combine all of the above elements and teach the body to be strong and resilient in "compromised" situations.

Resilience to Injury - kettlebell training offers complete development in all planes of movement, therefore preventing more injuries.

Cardio - kettlebell training especially ballistic exercises will enhance cardiovascular training. The conditioning aspect will also help to develop better weight management. "

Check with your personal physician before beginning any new exercise routine.  Remember to warm up before and cool down after performing aerobic exercises.

IQFitness kettlebell info
www.iqfitness.net/kettlebell.htm
Kettlebell news
http://cbs4denver.com/health/kettle.bell.exercise.2.633315.html
Kettlebell exercise demos
www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/kettlebell-exercises.html
2 Kettlebell high pull demo
www.hyperstrike.com/2-Kettlebell-High-Pull-Exercise-1201.aspx
Fitness for the Physically Challenged
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