An adjustable kettlebell is a great way to add a variety of weights to your workout. They're also convenient because they take up less space than traditional kettlebells.
However, not all adjustable kettlebells are created equal. They should meet a few key requirements, including a weight range that's heavy enough to challenge your training but not too light that it's too challenging to do the exercises with proper form.
Are Kettlebells Better Than Dumbbells?
Kettlebells are the ultimate functional fitness weights, designed for high-intensity training, and can help you get stronger in a variety of ways. They are also great for developing core strength and overall stability, which can help you maintain your body's natural alignment during daily activities like squatting or carrying groceries in the car.
Whether you are an advanced athlete or a beginner, choosing the best adjustable kettlebell can be a crucial part of your fitness journey. Luckily, there are so many options out there to suit your needs and preferences, from cheaper to high-end brands.
For starters, you need to decide which type of workouts you want to do with the kettlebells. Depending on your fitness goals, it might be a good idea to buy two different sets, with one for weight-training and one for cardio or functional movements.
Dumbbells, on the other hand, are ideal for exercises that focus on power and speed. They allow you to perform a wide range of quick, explosive movements without a lot of overhead movement and are often used for exercises like snatches and cleans, which help build strength and endurance at the same time.
You can even use them for high-intensity interval training, or HIIT, if you want to burn fat and improve your cardiovascular endurance. A study in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that people who did kettlebell swings, cleans, and snatches burned as much calories in 20 minutes as running a 6-minute-per-mile pace for the same amount of time!
The key difference between kettlebells and dumbbells is their shape. Dumbbells have a straight handle and evenly distributed weights on both ends, while kettlebells have a ball-shaped top that’s flat on one end.
This unbalanced shape makes the kettlebell harder to lift than dumbbells. That means your muscles have to stabilize the weight during basic moves, which recruits different muscle groups and can make some workouts more challenging than others.
Another big difference is the handles. Dumbbell handles aren't as wide and fit only a single hand, while kettlebell handles can be large enough for two hands (depending on your hand size).
In addition, dumbbells are generally more affordable than kettlebells, which can make them a good choice for beginners. However, if you’re serious about your training, it’s worth investing in a good set of kettlebells, which will allow you to do more dynamic and complex exercises that help improve your strength and power.
Best Kettlebell for Beginners
Kettlebells are a great tool to use when training for muscle strength, upper body power, or conditioning. They can also be a good choice for developing core strength. But before you pick out your adjustable kettlebell, consider how much you can afford to spend, what type of workout you want to perform, and the features that are most important to you.
The best kettlebells for beginners will have a weight range that's enough to challenge you during a variety of exercises but not too heavy so that you can't maintain proper form. They should also have weight increments that make it easy to jump up to a heavier weight when you're ready.
One of the best options for beginners is the Titan Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell, which comes with six removable cast iron plates that range from 10 to 40 pounds. Its textured handle provides a comfortable grip, and its wide handle lets you use two hands during kettlebell swings.
It also has a flat bottom to prevent damage, so you don't have to worry about scratches or other blemishes on your floors as you work out. Additionally, the bottom of this kettlebell is powder-coated to protect it from dings and drops that occur during functional training workouts.
This is a great option for those who have hardwood floors and don't want to worry about scratching or damaging them. The bell's softer body also means that it doesn't crack or chip when dropped, so it's safer to use on tile or concrete floors.
Another good kettlebell for beginners is the Bowflex SelectTech 840, which comes with eight weights that you can change with a simple twist of a dial. Its streamlined design makes changing weights easier than most, and it allows you to set the bell's weight from 12-32 kilograms in 1-kilogram increments.
This adjustable kettlebell isn't for everyone, as it's slightly more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it's worth considering if you're looking for a sturdy option with a flat bottom finish. It's also a great option for people who don't have much room for a large kettlebell.
Best Kettlebells on Amazon
Kettlebells are a great way to improve your strength, flexibility, and endurance. They are also a fun and challenging alternative to dumbbells. They can be used in a variety of exercises, including swings, cleans, and windmills.
If you’re looking to upgrade your kettlebells, you may want to consider an adjustable model. Adjustable kettlebells allow you to change the weight of your bell quickly and easily. These bells are typically available in a variety of different weight ranges, and they can be adjusted in 1-kilogram increments.
When shopping for an adjustable kettlebell, you should look for a weight range that’s enough to challenge you during your workouts but not so heavy that it’s unsafe or uncomfortable to use. You should also consider whether the weights on an adjustable kettlebell are made of durable materials that won’t break down over time.
For example, you should choose an adjustable kettlebell that has a rubber coating on the bottom to protect your floors and that’s powder-coated for durability. It should also have a sturdy handle to ensure that it won’t roll when you set it down.
Another thing to look for is an adjustable kettlebell that has a large handle to make it easier to do two-handed swings, cleans, and front lateral raises. These handles are also wide, which makes them easy to grip and help you stay in proper form during your workouts.
Lastly, look for an adjustable kettlebell that has a locking pin to keep the weights in place when you’re not using them. This will prevent you from accidentally dropping the bell while you’re doing exercise.
If you’re looking for a great value, the best adjustable kettlebell on Amazon is the REP Fitness 8-16kg Adjustable Kettlebell. It’s affordable, durable, and comes with everything you need to adjust the weight from 12 kg to 32kg in a single bell.
Best Adjustable Kettlebell Reddit
Kettlebells are a great way to get a solid cardio and strength workout. They're also easy to maneuver and are a great choice for those who live in small apartments or studios. However, not everyone wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a kettlebell. Luckily, there are plenty of cheaper alternatives to help you squeeze in a few extra reps and sets without breaking the bank.
If you're looking for an adjustable kettlebell that is both budget friendly and performs all the basics, we recommend Titan Fitness's adjustable bell. It's a little heavier than Tru Grit's version and is available in multiple colors, but it performs all the classic kettlebell movements well.
While this bell is a bit on the heavy side, it has some nice touches like a slick handle and a well-designed base for storing the bell when not in use. The company also offers a handy online warranty program to cover your purchase should anything go wrong in the future. It's not the cheapest option on our list, but it's one of the more affordable options that we found and is worth a look if you're on a tight budget. The only drawback is that the weights don't stack, which can make putting them away after a workout more of a chore than a breeze. Thankfully, they come in a wide range of sizes so you can find the right fit for your needs.
