The Kettlebell Workout Revolution

The Simple Kettlebell Workout Revolution

By: Chris Lopez, CSCS, Certified Turbulence Trainer

There’s a revolution going on in the training world today.

For the past 10-15 years we have been bombarded with every possible training method, new diet and exercise contraption to try to make things “easier”. To cut the distance traveled so that we can get from A to B faster.

As a result, we’re fatter and more confused than we have ever been.

We try everything and because of that, we’ve accomplished nothing. Each week some new book or shiny new toy is released and we’re told that we must have it because it proclaims to be the new “magic bullet” to get us those 6-pack-abs, or a 300lb bench or slimmer thighs.

The problem isn’t with the programs, it’s with us. We don’t give anything enough time to work because we’re constantly switching from one method to the other.

So because of all this, those “in the know” are going back to the basics. They’re saying “screw the gym” and are attempting to really simplify things. And I’m proud to say that I’m one of them.

I’m training at home (outside in my backyard). I’m using basic bodyweight movements (push-ups, chins, dips & pistols) and I’m using kettlebells.

Why Kettlebells?

Because they’re simple, unrefined and they’ve been around longer than the “pec deck”.

Because you can’t get any more basic than an iron cannon ball with a handle on it.

Its simple design is intimidating to some and unappealing to most.

They were the tool of choice for Russian strongmen and military personnel alike back when they were first conceived over 100 years ago. And they’re slowly gaining popularity again because people are sick of the BS.

My favorite KB is a 24kg all-in-one-gym in the trunk of my VW.

It’s a  weathered piece of metal with bumps and bruises, much like my own, and it looks like it’s been through hell and back. I’ve swung it, snatched it, thrown it and slammed it.

It’s been battered and bruised and, thus far in my 18 years of using myself as a training guinea pig, has given me the most results in the least amount of time.

When I train with kettlebell workouts and combine the most primitive bodyweight movements I get a workout done sometimes in less time than it takes the average person to drive to the gym.

Don’t believe me? Give this circuit a shot and see if you think any different…

1) Snatch x 15 per arm
2) Chin-up x 10
3) Clean & Push Press x 10 per arm
4) Spiderman Push-Ups x 20
5) Turkish Get-Ups x 5 per side
6) 2-Arm Swings x 25

Rest 1-minute and repeat 3 to 5 more times.

Welcome to the revolution,

Chris Lopez, CSCS, CTT