Oh, kettlebell swings, they ain’t like just pickin’ up a rock and throwin’ it, no. You see folks, kettlebells, they got their own way of doin’ things to yer body, workin’ all them big ol’ muscles in yer hips, backside, and legs. But when it comes to how heavy of a kettlebell you oughta be swingin’? Well, that’s what I’m here to yap about.
Now, some might say, “Go light, it’s safer.” But let me tell ya somethin’—if that kettlebell’s too light, yer gonna be flappin’ it around like a feather, and ya might as well be swingin’ yer purse! For men, a good startin’ weight is usually around 16 kilos, that’s 35 pounds, and for the ladies, 12 kilos, or about 25 pounds, that’s what they recommend. But if ya got some strength on ya already, or if ya used to liftin’ heavy things, then somethin’ like 20 kilos might be more yer speed.
Why go heavy, though, ya might be wonderin’? Well, lemme put it this way, a heavy kettlebell makes ya focus on every swing, gets them muscles a-burnin’ real good. It ain’t just about buildin’ big muscles, neither. Yer gettin’ a strong grip, workin’ on that control, and learnin’ to handle all that weight like it’s an extension of yer own two hands. Ain’t that somethin’?
Why Kettlebell Swingin’ Heavy is Good Fer Ya
So here’s the thing, when ya swing heavy, yer doin’ more than just liftin’. Yer workin’ on somethin’ fancy folks call the “posterior chain,” all them muscles from yer back down to yer legs. I may not know all the fancy terms, but I know that heavy swingin’ makes yer body strong and steady. And if ya stick with it, yer bound to build up strength like a workhorse.
Now, ya might’ve heard of deadlifts. They’re great, don’t get me wrong. But with kettlebell swings, ya get that same powerful hip and leg work goin’, and it’s a lot easier on yer back once ya get the hang of it. Plus, that swing, it’s kinda like bein’ in the field, liftin’ and swingin’ somethin’ every day. Feels natural, don’t it?
How to Pick the Right Weight
First things first, ya don’t wanna start too heavy if ya never tried swingin’ before. If yer a beginner, better start with somethin’ ya can handle but still feel. Maybe 16 kilos if yer a strong fella, or 12 kilos if yer a lady. But here’s a tip: if that kettlebell feels like it’s draggin’ ya all over, or if yer losin’ control, then it’s probably too heavy.
And if ya got some experience under yer belt, well then, go ahead and up the weight once yer feelin’ ready. Just keep yer form good, swingin’ from the hips, not liftin’ with the back. Ain’t no rush neither. Strength builds like a good stew, slow and steady.
Benefits of Goin’ Heavy with Kettlebell Swings
- Builds Full Body Strength – Them swings ain’t just hittin’ one spot, they’re workin’ yer whole backside, yer core, and even them legs.
- Gets Ya Stronger with Less Equipment – Just one kettlebell, and ya got a workout that’ll make ya stronger all over.
- Teaches Control and Focus – A heavy kettlebell makes ya pay attention. Every swing’s gotta be strong and steady, no sloppy movements.
- Improves Grip Strength – Yer hands gotta hold on tight, which builds up that grip for any other heavy liftin’ ya might do.
Now, if yer wantin’ to get serious with them swings, build it up bit by bit. Ain’t no need to rush into the heaviest kettlebell on day one. Start light, feel out the movements, then work yer way up. Soon enough, you’ll feel like you could lift a bull by the horns!
A Few Tips on Swingin’ Safely
- Always Swing from the Hips – Don’t be bendin’ over or liftin’ with yer back. Yer power comes from them hips.
- Keep Yer Core Tight – Hold that belly firm, like yer bracin’ against a gust of wind.
- Focus on Quality Over Quantity – Ain’t no use swingin’ heavy if yer form’s all over the place. Better fewer good swings than a heap of bad ones.
So, remember, if yer ready to take on heavy kettlebell swings, start with a weight that challenges ya but don’t knock ya over. Slowly work up, keep that form, and soon enough, you’ll be feelin’ stronger than a mule. Just remember, it ain’t about rushin’, it’s about gettin’ stronger, one swing at a time.
Tags:[kettlebell swings, heavy kettlebell, kettlebell exercise, beginner kettlebell weight, building strength with kettlebell]