Sunday, September 14, 2008

The Kettlebell Swing

"The KETTLEBELL SWING is the foundation of effective Russian kettlebell training. It teaches the hip thrust, compressed breathing, rooting, “wedging”, and the summation of efforts skills essential in many kettlebell drills as well as military, martial arts, and athletic applications. The swing maximizes muscular endurance of the back and waist, factors critical to lower back pain prevention. The swing is a powerful lower body strength builder and the cornerstone of effective conditioning." ----Borrowed from the RKC Manual

Kathleen and Adam Practicing the Kettlebell Swing

Almost every student that has come to the Launch workshops has never seen or heard of a kettlebell before. Imagine the eyes I look up to after demonstrating the swing for the first time. It is a ballistic move that you would assume would kill your back if you didn't know better. When I first began reading about the swing, I too was in disbelief. How could bending over and swinging a heavy weight help my back and make me strong. Luckily I had enough trust in my mentors to jump right in and give it a try. One year later, here I am, a walking billboard for the power of the kettlebell. Strong, Flexible, Lean, and Back Pain Free! Physical Therapists, Chiropractors, and Trainers all across the world are preaching on the positive effects of this simple exercise. Now it is your turn to give it a try!

Call 910.231.5011 or email shawn@headstrongathletics.com for more information on our group kettlebell classes and personal training.