Kettlebell Questions from a noob

dxtra30
dxtra30 Posts: 498 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Since there is 2 methods of kettlebell training (American) and (Russian) is one of them better than the other? Or is it just a preference? I was told at my local kettlebell training class that bending your knees (almost squatting) is more a 'cross fit' (American) style and that a slight bending of the knees is the (Russian) style. I had no idea there was a major difference since I'm just starting out. Does both styles work the same muscles? Any good videos on YouTube for differences? Any other tips or suggestions on this would be great.. Thank you!

P.s. - For a beginner is a 15pd weight ideal?

Replies

  • dxtra30
    dxtra30 Posts: 498 Member
    bump anybody?
  • kgool
    kgool Posts: 177 Member
    I do both, but the squat method seems to involve the core more and I am lot more tired when I do it. I vary by exercise actually.
  • dxtra30
    dxtra30 Posts: 498 Member
    I do both, but the squat method seems to involve the core more and I am lot more tired when I do it. I vary by exercise actually.

    Ah ok.. Thank you
  • dxtra30
    dxtra30 Posts: 498 Member
    Anybody else?
  • writetomab
    writetomab Posts: 226
    I honestly had no idea there was an "American" version of KB training. I tend to squat deeper in swings etc to engage more of my glutes, hams and core etc.... I also find it a more intense workout. I have only recently started KB training though so still learning.
  • IronSmasher
    IronSmasher Posts: 3,908 Member
    There's only one method. It's called 'correct'.

    Edit to add: 15 pood is far too heavy for a beginner.
  • cng31183
    cng31183 Posts: 126 Member
    Google Pavel Tsatsouline or RKC or dragondoor. They will show you proper form and technique. I think some moves have been bastardized but I'm not sure that's a good thing. As for starting weight I began with an 18 lb and am up to 26 to 35 depending on the exercise. If your a male you might start with the 26.
  • tatey2009
    tatey2009 Posts: 47
    not sure about there being 2 types, haven't heard of that

    when I did my kettlebell training(about 2 years ago) it was slight bend of the knee pushing your bottom into the back wall - you should feel this in your hamstring

    the only time we did full squats were if it was an actual squatting exercise, for swings you should be more bended knee not squatting and then snapping the hips forward to generate the swing
  • dxtra30
    dxtra30 Posts: 498 Member
    Thanks for the replies all.

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