Author: Brandon LaRue

Competition Kettlebells vs. Cast Iron Kettlebells: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Competition Kettlebells vs. Cast Iron Kettlebells: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Introduction:

Kettlebells have become a popular fitness tool for a full-body workout that combines strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and flexibility. When it comes to choosing kettlebells, two main options dominate the market: competition kettlebells and cast iron kettlebells. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, understanding the key differences can help you make an informed decision. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of competition kettlebells versus cast iron kettlebells, enabling you to choose the right kettlebell for your fitness goals.

Pros of Competition Kettlebells:

  1. Consistent Size and Shape: Competition kettlebells are designed with standardized dimensions, making them consistent in size and shape regardless of the weight. This uniformity allows for easy progression when moving up in weight, as the handle and overall feel remain consistent. It also ensures proper technique and grip regardless of the kettlebell’s weight.

  2. Comfortable Handle: Competition kettlebells feature a smooth, single-piece steel construction with a handle that is comfortable and easy to grip. The handle’s width is standardized, providing a consistent grip regardless of the kettlebell’s weight. This design allows for better control and minimizes the risk of slippage during exercises.

  3. Ideal for High-Rep Workouts: Competition kettlebells are widely used in kettlebell sport, where high-repetition sets are performed in a time-limited period. The consistent size and shape, along with the comfortable handle, make them well-suited for long-duration workouts. They allow for efficient movements, reducing fatigue and promoting better endurance.

  4. Minimal Impact on Floors: Competition kettlebells are often constructed with a smooth steel shell that minimizes the impact on flooring surfaces. This can be beneficial for home gyms or workout spaces with delicate floors, as it reduces the chances of damage compared to other types of kettlebells.

Cons of Competition Kettlebells:

  1. Higher Cost: Competition kettlebells tend to be more expensive than cast iron kettlebells due to their higher manufacturing standards and the quality control required to maintain uniformity across all weights. The cost can be a deterrent for those on a budget or beginners who are unsure of their long-term commitment to kettlebell training.

  2. Limited Variety: Competition kettlebells typically come in a limited range of weights, with increments ranging from 4 kg to 48 kg. This might not be suitable for individuals who require lighter or heavier kettlebells based on their fitness level or specific training needs.

Pros of Cast Iron Kettlebells:

  1. Wide Range of Weight Options: Cast iron kettlebells offer a broader selection of weights compared to competition kettlebells. This makes them suitable for individuals of all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. The wider weight range allows for gradual progression and accommodates diverse training goals.

  2. Cost-Effective: Cast iron kettlebells are generally more affordable than their competition counterparts. They are widely available and come in various price ranges, making them a budget-friendly option for those starting their kettlebell journey or looking to expand their collection.

  3. Durability: Cast iron kettlebells are known for their durability. The solid iron construction can withstand heavy use and resist wear and tear. They are less prone to chipping or cracking compared to other kettlebell materials, ensuring long-term usability.

Cons of Cast Iron Kettlebells:

  1. Varying Sizes and Handles: Cast iron kettlebells do not have standardized dimensions like competition kettlebells. As a result, the handle thickness, width, and overall size may differ between different weights. This can make transitioning between weights less consistent and may require adjustments in grip technique.

  2. Handle Finish and Grip: Some cast iron kettlebells may have a rough or textured handle, which can be uncomfortable during high-rep workouts or exercises that require prolonged grip. However, this can be addressed by using gloves or chalk to enhance grip and reduce discomfort.

Conclusion:

The choice between competition kettlebells and cast iron kettlebells depends on your specific fitness goals, budget, and personal preferences. Competition kettlebells offer consistent size, shape, and handle comfort, making them ideal for kettlebell sport and high-repetition workouts. On the other hand, cast iron kettlebells provide a wider range of weight options, durability, and affordability. Consider your training needs, budgetary constraints, and the importance of consistency when making your decision. Ultimately, both types of kettlebells can be effective tools for achieving your fitness goals, so choose the one that aligns best with your requirements.

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A Nomadic Solution: How a Traveling Kettlebell Gym Can Revolutionize American Workforce Fitness

A Nomadic Solution

How a Traveling Kettlebell Gym Can Revolutionize American Workforce Fitness

As the landscape of work continues to evolve in America, the percentage of workers who travel for their job is on the rise. As of 2021, an estimated 16% of American workers were frequent business travelers, a figure that is projected to increase as remote and hybrid working models become more prevalent. This shift to a more mobile work culture has produced a new set of challenges, particularly in maintaining a consistent fitness routine. Enter the traveling kettlebell gym – a unique and versatile solution to this emerging problem.

On the Road Again: The Increase in Work-Related Travel

With advancements in technology and the advent of remote work, the traditional nine-to-five office job is gradually making way for more flexible work models. This flexibility often involves significant travel, whether for client meetings, team collaborations, or industry conferences. The COVID-19 pandemic further catalyzed this trend, with many companies transitioning to hybrid work models that blend remote and in-office work.

However, this increased mobility comes with its own set of complications. One of the most significant is maintaining a regular fitness routine. Travel disrupts our routines, making it difficult to find time for a regular workout, especially with the unpredictability that often comes with work-related travel.

Fitness on the Go: The Challenge for Traveling Workers

Physical fitness plays a crucial role in overall health and productivity. Regular exercise helps to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy levels – all essential factors for a productive workday. Yet, finding time and resources to exercise can be challenging for traveling workers.

Hotel gyms vary widely in quality and availability, and local gym memberships are impractical for frequent travelers. Moreover, workers are often left at the mercy of their travel schedules, with early flights, late meetings, and unpredictable changes all posing barriers to consistent exercise.

The Kettlebell Solution: A Traveling Gym for a Traveling Workforce

This is where the concept of a traveling kettlebell gym comes into play. Kettlebell training is a form of strength and conditioning workout that is compact, versatile, and effective. Unlike traditional gyms, a kettlebell gym doesn’t require much space or equipment. A single kettlebell can provide a full-body workout, targeting various muscle groups and improving cardiovascular fitness.

The idea of a traveling kettlebell gym is to bring the gym to the workers. Such a service could be offered as a pop-up gym at conference centers, hotels, or even airports. A traveling kettlebell gym could also offer virtual classes or provide kettlebells for individual use, offering workers the flexibility to work out on their own time.

The Benefits: Healthier, Happier, More Productive Workers

The potential benefits of a traveling kettlebell gym are manifold. For the workers themselves, it offers an accessible and efficient way to maintain their fitness routine while on the road. Regular exercise, even in short bursts, can significantly improve mental and physical health, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

For employers, promoting physical fitness can lead to a healthier and more focused workforce. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce absenteeism and improve job performance. By providing access to a traveling kettlebell gym, companies can demonstrate a commitment to their employees’ well-being, which can, in turn, enhance employee morale and retention.

The Future of Fitness for the American Workforce

The rise of work-related travel presents a challenge for maintaining regular fitness routines. However, innovative solutions like the traveling kettlebell gym are stepping up to meet this challenge. By offering a flexible, effective workout solution, the traveling kettlebell gym stands to revolutionize fitness for the American workforce, promoting healthier, happier, and more productive workers, no matter where their work takes them.

Adapting to our evolving work culture requires creative solutions. For those who travel frequently for work, the need for a consistent, flexible fitness regimen is clear. The traveling kettlebell gym has the potential to fill this need, providing an innovative solution for this increasingly mobile workforce.

Business travelers can now look forward to the possibility of maintaining their fitness routines without disruption. The accessibility and efficiency of a traveling kettlebell gym will not only help individuals stay fit but also promote productivity and satisfaction in their work.

Furthermore, companies that support and promote such initiatives could see a significant return on investment. The positive effects on employee morale and retention, coupled with reduced absenteeism, make the traveling kettlebell gym a compelling prospect for forward-thinking organizations.

In conclusion, as the American workforce continues to evolve, it’s critical that our approach to fitness evolves too. The traveling kettlebell gym represents a significant step in the right direction. By prioritizing our health and well-being, even when on the go, we can work towards a healthier, happier, and more productive future.

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1-arm kettlebell snatch

Unleashing the Ultimate Athlete: The Power of the 1-Arm Kettlebell Snatch

1-arm kettlebell snatch

Unleashing the Ultimate Athlete

The Power of the 1-Arm Kettlebell Snatch

Introduction

The world of athletic development is filled with countless exercises and training techniques, all aiming to improve performance, strength, and overall fitness. Amidst this vast array of options, the 1-arm kettlebell snatch stands out as an exceptional exercise that offers a plethora of benefits to athletes of all levels. In this blog post, we’ll explore why the 1-arm kettlebell snatch is the ultimate athlete developer and how you can incorporate it into your own training regimen.

    1. Full-Body Engagement

    The 1-arm kettlebell snatch is a dynamic, explosive movement that engages nearly every muscle group in the body. It requires coordination between the legs, hips, core, back, and shoulders to generate the necessary power to lift the kettlebell overhead. This full-body engagement not only builds strength and power but also promotes functional movement patterns that translate to better performance in various sports and activities.

    1. Improved Power and Explosiveness

    The explosive nature of the kettlebell snatch is one of its greatest assets for athletic development. By incorporating this exercise into your training, you’ll develop increased power, speed, and explosiveness, all of which are essential for peak athletic performance. The ability to generate force quickly is crucial in sports like basketball, football, and track and field events, where a rapid burst of power can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

    1. Enhanced Shoulder Stability and Mobility

    The overhead position of the 1-arm kettlebell snatch requires a significant amount of shoulder stability and mobility. Athletes must maintain a strong, stable position while simultaneously extending their arm overhead, which challenges the shoulder joint and surrounding musculature. By regularly performing the kettlebell snatch, athletes can improve their shoulder health, reducing the risk of injury and increasing overall mobility.

    1. Unilateral Training Benefits

    The 1-arm kettlebell snatch is a unilateral exercise, meaning it works one side of the body at a time. This type of training is vital for athletes, as it helps to address any muscle imbalances and improve overall functional performance. Furthermore, unilateral training can enhance core stability, as the body must work harder to maintain balance and control during the movement.

    1. Conditioning and Fat Loss

    While the primary focus of the 1-arm kettlebell snatch may be strength and power development, it also serves as an effective conditioning tool. The high-intensity, full-body nature of the exercise ensures that your heart rate will skyrocket during a workout, leading to improved cardiovascular fitness and greater caloric expenditure. As a result, incorporating kettlebell snatches into your training can support fat loss and improve overall conditioning.

    Incorporating the 1-Arm Kettlebell Snatch into Your Training

    To reap the benefits of the 1-arm kettlebell snatch, begin by incorporating it into your training program once or twice per week. Start with a lighter kettlebell and focus on perfecting your form before progressing to heavier weights. As your proficiency in the movement improves, you can experiment with different rep and set schemes to challenge your body and continue to unlock your athletic potential.

    Conclusion

    The 1-arm kettlebell snatch is a versatile, powerful exercise that offers numerous benefits for athletes of all levels. By engaging the entire body, improving power and explosiveness, enhancing shoulder stability and mobility, promoting unilateral training benefits, and supporting conditioning and fat loss, this dynamic movement truly earns its title as the ultimate athlete developer. Give it a try and experience the transformative power of the kettlebell snatch for yourself.

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    Kettlebell Training: The Ultimate Key to Preserving Muscle and Bone Density as You Age

    Kettlebell Training: The Ultimate Key to Preserving Muscle and Bone Density as You Age

    As we age, our bodies inevitably undergo several changes, including the loss of muscle mass and bone density. However, it doesn’t mean we must accept these changes without a fight. Kettlebell training is a highly effective and versatile form of exercise that can help maintain and even improve muscle and bone strength throughout our golden years. Let’s delve into the science behind kettlebell training and discover how incorporating this exercise into your routine can pave the way for a strong and resilient body as you age.

    The Science of Muscle and Bone Density Decline

    Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass, and osteoporosis, the reduction in bone density, are two common health issues faced by aging individuals. These conditions not only diminish physical strength but also increase the risk of falls, fractures, and other injuries. Fortunately, research has shown that resistance training can counteract these effects and help preserve muscle and bone health.

    1. Whole-body exercise

    Kettlebell training is unique in that it combines both cardiovascular and strength training, offering a whole-body workout in a single session. The dynamic nature of kettlebell exercises like swings, snatches, and Turkish get-ups engages multiple muscle groups, effectively targeting and strengthening them. This full-body approach can help older adults maintain their functional fitness, improving their balance, mobility, and overall quality of life.

    1. Impact on muscle mass

    One of the main reasons kettlebell training is effective at preserving muscle mass is its focus on functional, compound movements. These movements engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, leading to greater muscle activation and growth. Additionally, kettlebell workouts can be easily adapted to suit individual needs, allowing older adults to progressively increase the intensity and resistance as they gain strength.

    1. Boosting bone density

    Kettlebell training not only helps maintain muscle mass but also has a positive impact on bone density. The load-bearing nature of kettlebell exercises stimulates bone remodeling, a process where new bone tissue is formed, ultimately improving bone strength. This is particularly beneficial for older adults, as stronger bones can reduce the risk of fractures and osteoporosis-related injuries.

    1. Improved balance and coordination

    The functional and dynamic movements incorporated in kettlebell training challenge your balance and coordination, which are essential for maintaining independence as you age. Consistently practicing kettlebell exercises can enhance your body’s ability to react and adapt to different situations, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall stability.

    Tips for Incorporating Kettlebell Training into Your Routine

    1. Consult a professional: Before starting any new exercise routine, consult with a healthcare professional or a certified fitness trainer to ensure that kettlebell training is suitable for your individual needs and health status.

    2. Start with the basics: Learn and master the fundamental kettlebell movements, such as swings, goblet squats, and presses, before attempting more advanced exercises. Proper form is crucial for avoiding injuries and reaping the full benefits of kettlebell training.

    3. Choose the right weight: Start with a lighter kettlebell, and gradually increase the weight as you become more comfortable with the exercises. The appropriate weight will challenge you without compromising your form or causing undue strain.

    4. Prioritize consistency: Aim for at least two kettlebell training sessions per week to see tangible improvements in muscle mass and bone density. Remember that consistency is key when it comes to achieving and maintaining long-term health benefits.

    Conclusion

    Kettlebell training is a powerful and versatile form of exercise that can help preserve muscle mass and bone density as we age. By incorporating kettlebell exercises into your fitness routine, you can effectively combat the effects of aging and enjoy a stronger, more resilient body

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    Why a kettlebell carrying backpack is clutch for the kettlebell enthusiast

    Why having a kettlebell carrying backpack is clutch for a kettlebell enthusiast

    You’ll never be without an excuse if you have one of these

    Kettlebells have become increasingly popular in recent years as a versatile and effective tool for improving strength, endurance, and overall fitness. However, one challenge that kettlebell enthusiasts often face is how to transport their kettlebells from one location to another, whether it be to the gym, a park, hotel, vacation, or a friend’s house.

    This is where a kettlebell carrying backpack comes in. A kettlebell carrying backpack is a specially designed backpack that is equipped with straps and compartments for carrying a kettlebell, making it a convenient and efficient solution for transporting your kettlebell.

    Here are some reasons why a kettlebell carrying backpack would be necessary for a kettlebell enthusiast:

    • Convenience

      Carrying kettlebells can be challenging, especially if you have to transport them over a distance. A kettlebell carrying backpack allows you to carry your kettlebells on your back, freeing up your hands and making it easier to move around.

    • Versatility

      A kettlebell carrying backpack is not just useful for transporting your kettlebells. It can also be used as a regular backpack, with compartments for storing other gym essentials such as towels, water bottles, and workout clothes.

    • Safety

      Carrying kettlebells by hand can be risky, as the weight can shift or swing unpredictably, increasing the risk of injury. A kettlebell carrying backpack, on the other hand, keeps your kettlebells securely in place, reducing the risk of accidents.

    • Protection

      Kettlebells can be heavy and bulky, and transporting them can cause damage to floors, walls, or other surfaces. A kettlebell carrying backpack provides a layer of protection between the kettlebell and the surface it comes into contact with, reducing the risk of damage.

    • Mobility

      Carrying kettlebells by hand can be tiring and limit your mobility, making it difficult to perform certain exercises or movements. With a kettlebell carrying backpack, you can move more freely and perform a wider range of exercises, allowing you to get the most out of your workout.

    In conclusion, a kettlebell carrying backpack is an essential accessory for any kettlebell enthusiast who wants to transport their kettlebells safely, conveniently, and efficiently. It provides a range of benefits, including convenience, safety, versatility, protection, and mobility, making it a must-have for anyone who regularly uses kettlebells.

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    Kettlebell Training Combined with Hiking is Killing Two Birds with One Stone

    Kettlebell Training Combined with Hiking Kills A Lot of Birds with One Stone

    Get outside the box, literally.

    Benefits of Hiking

    Hiking is a low-impact form of aerobic exercise that involves walking in natural environments such as forests, mountains, or trails. Here are some of the benefits of hiking:

    • Improves cardiovascular health: Hiking is an excellent way to get your heart rate up and improve your cardiovascular health. Regular hiking can lower your risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.

    • Builds strength and endurance: Hiking involves walking uphill and downhill, which engages various muscle groups in the legs, core, and upper body. This helps to build endurance, strength, and balance.

    • Reduces stress and anxiety: Hiking in natural environments has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Exposure to nature can also improve your mood and overall sense of well-being.

    • Boosts creativity: Hiking can help to boost creativity by allowing you to disconnect from technology and engage with the natural environment. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve cognitive function and creativity.

    Benefits of Kettlebell Training

    Kettlebell training is a type of strength training that uses kettlebells, which are bell-shaped weights with handles. Kettlebell training involves dynamic movements such as swings, snatches, and cleans, which engage multiple muscle groups and improve overall strength and power. Here are some of the benefits of kettlebell training:

    • Builds strength and power: Kettlebell training is a full-body workout that engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This can help to build strength and power, especially in the core, hips, and legs.

    • Improves cardiovascular endurance: Kettlebell training can also improve cardiovascular endurance, as the dynamic movements require a high level of exertion and can elevate heart rate.

    • Increases flexibility and mobility: Kettlebell exercises involve movements that require flexibility and mobility, which can improve joint health and reduce the risk of injury.

    • Burns calories and fat: Kettlebell training is a high-intensity workout that can burn a significant amount of calories and fat, leading to weight loss and improved body composition.

    The Benefits of Merging Hiking and Kettlebell Training

    Merging hiking and kettlebell training can lead to even greater benefits than each activity alone. Here are some of the benefits of combining the two:

    • Increased calorie burn: Combining hiking with kettlebell exercises can increase the calorie burn of both activities, leading to greater weight loss and improved body composition.

    • Improved cardiovascular endurance: Both hiking and kettlebell training can improve cardiovascular endurance, and combining the two can create a more comprehensive cardiovascular workout.

    • Total body workout: Merging hiking with kettlebell exercises engages multiple muscle groups throughout the body, leading to improved overall strength and power.

    • Mental clarity: Hiking in natural environments can improve mental clarity and reduce stress and anxiety. Combining this with the mental focus required for kettlebell exercises can lead to improved cognitive function and overall well-being.

    In conclusion, hiking and kettlebell training are two popular forms of exercise that offer unique benefits to the body and mind. Merging the two can create a comprehensive workout that combines cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and mental clarity. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build strength, or improve your overall well-being, hiking and kettlebell training can be an effective way to achieve your fitness goals.

    If you need a convenient way to hike your kettlebell to beautiful places to train, check out our kettlebell backpack!

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    Top 5 Benefits of Weighted Hiking

    top 5 benefits of weighted hiking

    As an active recovery day or as a way to build leg strength, weighted hiking is a great addition to your active lifestyle

    Hiking is a great way to get outdoors, explore new areas, and get some exercise. If you’re looking to take your hiking to the next level, consider adding weight to your backpack. Here are the top 5 benefits of weighted hiking:

      1. Increased Strength and Endurance
      1. Improved Cardiovascular Health
      1. Burn More Calories
      1. Better Balance and Stability
      1. Mental Health Benefits

    Now let’s break each of these down and discuss them a little bit more.

      1. Increased Strength and Endurance

    Adding weight to your backpack during hikes can help increase your strength and endurance. The extra weight will challenge your muscles and force them to work harder than they normally would during a regular hike. Over time, this can help you build more muscle and improve your overall endurance.

    1. Improved Cardiovascular Health

    Hiking with added weight can also provide an excellent cardiovascular workout. The extra weight makes your heart and lungs work harder, which can help improve their function over time. By regularly challenging your cardiovascular system, you can improve your overall heart health and reduce your risk of heart disease.

    1. Burn More Calories

    If you’re looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, weighted hiking can be an excellent way to burn more calories. Adding weight to your backpack increases the overall intensity of your hike, which means you’ll burn more calories than you would during a regular hike. Plus, hiking with a backpack can be a more fun and enjoyable way to burn calories than other forms of exercise.

    1. Better Balance and Stability

    When you add weight to your backpack, it can affect your balance and stability during the hike. As a result, your body must work harder to maintain its balance and stability on uneven terrain. Over time, this can help improve your overall balance and stability, which can be beneficial in your everyday life.

    1. Mental Health Benefits

    Hiking is known to have many mental health benefits, and adding weight to your backpack can enhance these benefits. The extra weight can help you clear your mind and focus on the present moment, which can be a form of mindfulness practice. Additionally, challenging yourself with weighted hiking can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost your self-confidence.

    In conclusion, weighted hiking is an excellent way to take your hiking to the next level and reap a variety of health and mental benefits. Before you start, be sure to gradually increase the weight in your backpack to avoid injury and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

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    Why Kettlebell Training Outside is So Good for You

    Why Kettlebell Training in Nature is Healthy for You

    We all know being outside is good for your health and good for the soul, why not combine it with the best form of strength and cardiovascular training?

    Kettlebell training is a highly effective form of strength and cardiovascular training, and when combined with the great outdoors, it can provide a wealth of physical and mental benefits. Training with kettlebells in nature not only provides an intense workout but also offers an escape from the stresses of daily life and an opportunity to connect with nature.

    One of the primary benefits of kettlebell training is its versatility. Kettlebells can be used for a variety of exercises that target multiple muscle groups and can be easily adjusted in weight to accommodate all levels of fitness. By incorporating kettlebells into outdoor workouts, you can take advantage of the natural surroundings and incorporate exercises that would be difficult to perform indoors.

    Nature provides a unique environment that can be especially beneficial for kettlebell training. Exercising outside in the fresh air and natural light can help boost energy levels and improve mental clarity. In addition, the uneven terrain and obstacles found in nature provide an added challenge to kettlebell exercises and can help to improve balance and stability.

    Another benefit of training with kettlebells in nature is that it provides a change of pace from traditional indoor gym workouts. Instead of the monotony of a routine gym workout, training in nature allows for a more dynamic and engaging workout that keeps the mind and body stimulated. This can help to prevent boredom and burnout, and keep you motivated to stick to your fitness goals.

    Finally, training with kettlebells in nature can be a great way to connect with nature and escape from the stresses of daily life. Exercising in a peaceful, natural environment can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall mental well-being. This is particularly true for people who live in urban areas and are constantly exposed to the fast pace and noise of city life.

    In conclusion, training with kettlebells in nature is a highly effective strategy to have success with a healthy lifestyle. The ability to kill multiple birds with one stone is remarkably efficient. Of course, depending upon where you live, accomplishing this may be easier for some than others, but no matter your climate, getting outside, resetting, getting some exercise can always be accomplished. 

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    The Benefits of Weighted Hiking

    Weighted hiking & Fitness

    Is weighted hiking the ultimate blend of the yin of the weight-room and the yang of the outdoors?

    Admittedly, I’ve fought the “cardio” angle of fitness due to my preferred training modalities and the scientifically superior benefits of resistance training in all it’s forms. 

    But I’ve recently had an epiphany about weighted hiking. You see I love to be in the great outdoors. Who doesn’t? Without knowing it, while pursuing the passion of hunting and trout fishing, where I often need to hike in quite a ways to get to the destination oftentimes carrying 20+ pounds of extra weight in gear, I realized……this is weighted hiking! 

    I’m not sure science will ever be able to truly explain the incredible benefits of being outside in nature and just wondering around and moving our body, but I sure know that it feels awesome when I’m hunting and fishing, so I decided to start doing some weighted hiking with the Kettlebell Backpack. I’m able to use a lighter weight kettlebell on longer hikes or if I just want some active recovery, or I can put in a heavier kettlebell if I want some extra resistance for a shorter hike, or just want a higher intensity workout. 

    Hiking, as opposed to walking, especially if you’re venturing off the pavement and into the wilderness where there’s hills to climb and uneven surfaces to careen, is more athletic in nature than walking. Hiking is more multi-directional and not just movement in one plane (straight ahead).

    It’s likely that while doing weighted hiking, you’ll have to do the following:

    • Lunges (multi-directional)
    • Step-ups (multi-directional)
    • RDLs
    • Calf Raises
    • Dorsiflexion 

    The more athletic qualities (strength, balance, multi-planar movement, work capacity, just to name a few) a human can enhance or maintain across their lifespan, the higher functioning human they will remain. 

    In short, I guess the lesson is to take something incredibly beneficial, like strength training, and merge it with another thing that’s incredibly beneficial, like hiking in the outdoors, and merge the two for multiplied benefit!

    So whether you consider it a ruck or a weighted hike, just get outside and build your athleticism, and if you just so happen to have a kettlebell with you, just imagine all the outdoor workout capabilities you now have at your disposal 😉

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    Minimalism Meets Maximalism

    MINIMALISM MEETS MAXIMALISM with the kettlebell backpack

    ARE YOU REALLY A MINAMALIST IF YOU’RE A MAXIMALIST

    LET’S DISCOVER WHO YOU REALLY ARE!

    There’s a growing trend out there of people seeking the “minimalist lifestyle.” I must admit, I kind of like it. In a culture where there’s constant bombardment of MORE, MORE, MORE, people are growing tired of chasing more and are experiencing more happiness with less. Less stuff means less expenses. Less stuff means more space. Less stuff means less need for more income. Less stuff means less trying to keep up with the Joneses. Less stuff means more happiness.

    Funny story, when my family moved a couple years back, I tried to convince my wife that we should buy 40 acres of land out in the country and build a mini-house. Despite my best salesman efforts, she held her ground and we bought a home in town, but it’s got a huge garage, so there was a compromise ;).

    As an entrepreneur, I’m seeking avenues that not only have less overhead, but also have maximal impact for the people I want to serve. 

    As you can see, this minimalist perspective can be very valuable. Heck I even shop for clothes now that I can use for multiple purposes. If I can workout in the same pants that I can also throw a nice shirt on with and look like somewhat fashionable or just wear when I’m bumming around because they are super comfortable, I’m all in for the 3-for-1 approach to pants. Now let’s look at this though the lens of your health and fitness. How can you become more of a minimalist? Here’s a few questions to ponder:

    • Well, do you go to a big box gym? Do you really use all of the amenities to justify spending as much money as you do? 
    • How much time do you spend at the gym or working out in general?
    • What does your home gym look like? Do you have a treadmill, peloton bike, squat rack, cable machine, and a rack of dumbbells? Do you even use half of that when you workout?

    It’s fascinating what someone will spend on something that will easily wear out, or the FAD will quickly fade, or to feel like they’re part of an exclusive club. What if you could accomplish more with less? What if you could nearly always have access to the minimalist pieces of equipment you needed to get the most transformative workout sessions? What if you could spend 1/3 of the time exercising that you’d other wise spend (assuming 90 minutes of time commitment at gym). 

    What if you could carry anything that could ever need in a backpack for your health, fitness, and travel?

    • Kettlebell? – check
    • Gym shoes? – check
    • Ab wheel? – check
    • Mobility tools? – check
    • Jump Rope? – check
    • Resistance Band? – check
    • Gym shorts? – check
    • Extra pairs of undies and socks? – check
    • Toiletries? – check
    • Shaker bottle? – check 

    What if you could also carry this with you wherever you could want to go, and you could also use it as a rucking pack as well? Sounds pretty minimalistic doesn’t it!? But it also sounds quite MAXIMALISTIC doesn’t it!?

    It’s like having a swiss army knife in backpack form. 

    check out these 4 images to gain minimalistic maximalism

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    LA CRESCENT, Minnesota
    USA
    (507) 218-7285
    info@wellbuiltkettlebells.com