Meet The Kettlebell

One thing great about outdoor fitness and bootcamp programs is that they’re pushing the envelope in comparison to traditional fitness. They’re exciting because they often expose their participants to a whole new world of fitness through introducing them to new movements and equipment they likely wouldn’t experience if left to their own devices in a gym. One of these pieces of equipment is the kettlebell, and it might just be your new best friend.

Odds are you’ve likely seen a kettlebell before, but just didn’t realize it. They often sit in the far corner of the gym surrounded by other pieces of equipment like heavy ropes and plyo boxes we’re a little too cautious to go for. They essentially look like a cannonball with a handle on it, and likewise you’d sooner be tempted to use it to knock down a castle than to get a workout in. But, they’re solid, heavy, and versatile, and that’s what makes them great for outdoor fitness.

This piece of equipment originated in Russia, and has since been used for traditional competitions, Russian strength training, U.S. Military conditioning, and now outdoor fitness and bootcamp programs. It’s clear the kettlebell has a pretty thorough history of fitness performance, and even now is making a resurgence back onto the scene. So, what’s behind all the hype?