What Kettlebell Do I Start With?

This is a serious question, and deserves a straight-talking answer. So I’m going to be upfront here and let you know that this post has less of a humorous undertone. Take the advice on board as the last thing I want is for you to get the wrong weight and pick up an early injury.

This is the first question that I normally get asked by anyone looking into kettlebell training. Unfortunately it’s not a straightforward answer, as it really depends.

What’s your goal?

The first thing that you need to be clear on is what your main exercise goal is. Now, at our ladies only training facility over 80% of our members are there to torch fat. Typically they want to strip away the wobbly bits around the tummy, the tops of the legs and the bum. So, if this is you then you should opt for a slightly lighter weight so that you’re able to perform lots of reps.

If you’re looking to try and build muscle then you should consider a heavier weight and be performing lower reps.

How fit are you?

The next thing that you need to take into account is your current fitness level. Are you already in shape or have you not exercised for years? Going too heavy with kettlebells too soon and be demoralising as it’s just too hard. You are at risk of compromising your technique as well.

 Any injuries?

Have you had any serious injuries in the past that might restrict some of the movements that you can perform? Again, going too heavy too soon might aggravate this.

 Have you ever picked up a dumbell? (2kg weights during aerobics don’t count)

Have you ever used weights in the past? If yes, then picking up a kettlebell should feel quite comfortable quite quickly, but if the last exercise you did was a game of netball in PE at school then it may feel slightly awkward. If this is the case, then once again opt for a slightly lighter kettlebell.

 General Guide:

• Not exercised for ages
• Out of shape
• Looking to lose fat
• Go with a 6kg

• Quite fit
• Have lifted weights in the past
• Looking to lose fat
• Go with an 8kg

• Fit
• Break through fat loss plateau
• Want to gain more muscle
• Go with a 12kg

There you go.

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Ricky