Classic Cast Iron or Pro Grade?
The Kettlebell is a traditional Russian fitness tool made of cast iron that has been around for almost a century. It looks like a canon ball with a handle on it. This shape allows for center of mass positioning while performing ballistic and swinging type of motions typically used in sport and athletics. Kettlebell training is a full body type of functional training that incorporates a tremendous amount of core strength and develops endurance, flexibility, power, coordination and full body strength and conditioning.
Let's get a little Russian history on the Kettlebell life:
The two types of Kettlebells to choose from are the classic cast iron kettlebell and the pro grade steel competition style Kettlebell. It depends on what your goals and preferences are for training. I think if you get top quality of either type, you cannot lose. I personally prefer the pro grade. I started with a few basic cast iron kettlebells then I bought heavier weighted pro grade. To me, pro grade are a little more comfortable and the dimensions are constant based on competition no matter what weight you are using. Try them both and you can decide. I like pro grade.
What weight is right for me?
Kettlebells come in many different weights and typically come in kilogram (Kg) size weights. You can multiply Kg times 2.2 to get pounds (lbs). It is important to begin with a somewhat smaller weight than you would think. You can also get two different weights to use for different exercises. The average man who has experience with weight training can start with 16 Kg/35 lbs (12 Kg if you are new to strength training) and eventually progress to 24 Kg. The average woman can start with 8 Kg/18lbs and progress to 12 Kg,16kg and 20 Kg.
See what one of the experts has to say on the topic of the
pro grade steel versus classic cast iron Kettlebells:
