Should women train with kettlebells?
Some of the biggest mistakes women make are not adding weight ‘lifting’ to their fitness program (or lifting too lightly for fear of getting big and bulky) and doing too many slow and steady sessions on cardio machines. An hour on a treadmill is not going to get you the results you are looking for. With tight schedules, you can cut your workout times in half with KB training and since KB workouts help craft a lean physique, they are perfect for both genders. At a first glance, kettlebells may look intimidating to women and/or they may have seen Strongmen or Mixed Martial Artists training hardcore with them. That does not mean they are only meant for these athletes alone. If you want to reach your fitness goals in a quick and efficient manner, kettlebells are a perfect tool to get you there! Strength and Conditioning Coach Mike Mahler, when asked, “Do women use kettlebells?” always responds, “the smart ones do!”
Will I bulk up with kettlebell training?
You won’t build big, bulky muscles with KB’s, however, by incorporating them into a sound training program you can build lean, dense, stronger muscles that are more functional with everyday movements and tasks and also help you become more efficient with other types of exercises and training.
I have a weak back. Can I train with kettlebells?
Several KB exercises focus on strengthening the core, which can mean relief for an overworked back that is overcompensating for a weak midsection. KB exercises can also increase endurance in back muscles, which can reduce the odds of suffering from back problems. Our KB programs will help improve back health and help improve range of motion and joint health.
Are kettlebells dangerous?
ANY exercise is dangerous if you use poor form and don’t get proper coaching. Proper Instruction is the key to experiencing positive results and benefits with Kettlebells. All of our Bernardo Instructors are certified through World Class Athlete and Fitness Coach, Steve Cotter and his IKFF (International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation) Organization. Our BFF Kettlebell Head Instructor, Tammy Bernardo, has been training with kettlebells since 2003 with certifications from the RKC (Russian Kettlebell Instructor Certification) in 2004 and 2006 and with the IKFF in 2009 and 2013. As always, our Instructors will continue to strive and improve on all teaching skills by maintaining proper certification and by attending top-notch, cutting-edge Kettlebell and Strength training seminars and workshops throughout the year.
I’m not an athlete and I have never trained with kettlebells before. Should I try it?
Whether you are a beginner just starting out, or an athlete new to kettlebell training, incorporating our Kettlebell programs into your current fitness regime will help enhance your fitness levels (ie, cardiovascular and muscular systems), your physique (ie, fat loss), core strength and the structural health of the posterior chain (ie, low back, glutes and hamstrings), all critical to a fit, healthy body! Bottom line, Kettlebell training can be incorporated by men and women of all ages and fitness levels.
For other inquiries or questions on our Kettlebell class schedule and pricing, please speak to Sempai Tammy Bernardo or call our Oxford Studio at 519-659-2504.
