But I found a new routine that has absolutely changed how I think of strength training as a triathlete. Let’s talk about Kettlebells. If you haven’t experienced a workout with these bad boys yet, then let me tell you why I’m obsessed with them.
I suppose I should mention the most exciting part, and primary reason why I was so compelled to write again this week, was that I finally get to channel my passion for both triathlon and fitness into a career now. I have recently joined lifetime fitness as a group fitness instructor, and I will be teaching their ultra badass Kettlebell Kombine format.
Since I’ve started incorporating kettlebells into my strength routine, I have most certainly seen gains in my overall fitness. The movements that are done in Kettlebell Kombine are dynamic and challenging, and I am utilizing so many more muscle groups than I would with just simply strength training in the weight room.
There were several studies done that provided some incredible results for participants of Kettlebell specific workouts.
Below I’ve listed the key points that were really most persuasive to me.
-In a study conducted by UW-La Crosse, participants saw increase in aerobic capacity, dynamic balance and dramatic core strength changes.
-Abdominal core strength was boosted by a whopping 70 percent in participants
-Kettlebell workouts are a cross between circuit weight training and running training.
-They provide an explosive, total body workout
-Kettlebells offer a powerful workout, in a short amount of time.
-A study found that subjects who performed a steady 20 minute set of kettlebell snatches and lifts burned the equivalent calories of a 6 minute mile.
While strength training tends to fall by the way side during the core race season, I plan on incorporating kettlebells as much as possible as I train for both Ironman Canada and Arizona this year.
And if you are in Chanhassen on Monday’s, make sure to come in and spend 45 minutes with me in the studio with our new friend, the kettlebell.
