The kettlebell is a popular piece of fitness equipment for building strength, power, endurance and many other physical qualities. It consists of a cast-iron ball with a handle on top for easy handling. Kettlebell exercises are known to be effective for toning muscles, burning calories and improving overall fitness.

However, the choice of kettlebell weight is crucial to avoid injury and maximize the benefits of training. If the weight is too light, you won’t get enough of a workout to improve your fitness. If the weight is too heavy, you risk injury.

The aim of this article in our kettlebell buying guide is to help readers determine which kettlebell weight best suits their fitness level and goals. We’ll look at the different factors to consider when choosing a kettlebell weight, the weight options available and how to use the kettlebell safely.

 

Kettlebell weights: factors to consider

The choice of kettlebell weight must take several factors into account. Here are the main ones to consider:

Choice of kettlebell weight according to fitness level and experience:

If you’re a beginner, it’s advisable to start with a lighter weight to master the basic techniques before moving on to a heavier weight. If you are an experienced user, you can choose a heavier weight to continue progressing.

Choice of kettlebell weight according to objectives :

If you’re looking to burn calories, a lighter weight with high-repetition exercises will be more effective. If you’re looking to develop strength, a heavier weight with low-repetition exercises will be more suitable.

Choice of kettlebell weight according to the exercises you wish to perform:

Some exercises require a lighter weight, like the press or snatch, while others require a heavier weight, like the swing or squat.

Choice of kettlebell weight according to gender and weight:

If you’re bigger and stronger, you can choose a heavier weight for a more intensive workout. If you’re smaller and thinner, a lighter weight will be better suited to avoiding injury.

By taking these factors into account, you can determine which kettlebell weight best suits your fitness level and goals. In the next section, we’ll look at the different weight options available for the kettlebell.

Kettlebell weights: the different options

There are various kettlebell weight options available, ranging from light weights to heavier weights for experienced athletes. Here’s an overview of the different kettlebell weight options:

There are three basic kettlebell weights, which are the ones used in competition. These are the 16kg kettlebell, the 24kg kettlebell and the 32kg kettlebell. In the amateur category, women use a 16kg kettlebell and men a 24kg kettlebell, while in the professional category women use a 24kg kettlebell and men a 32kg kettlebell.

In addition to these basic weights, there is now a whole range of weights from the 4kg kettlebell to the 92kg kettlebell. Kettlebell weights always increase in 4kg increments : kettlebell 4kg, kettlebell 8kg, kettlebell 12kg, kettlebell 16kg, kettlebell 20kg, kettlebell 24kg, kettlebell 28kg, kettlebell 32kg, etc. Some brands also offer intermediate weights in 2kg increments : 4kg, 6kg, 8kg, 10kg, 12kg, 14kg, 16kg, 18kg, 20kg, 22kg, 24kg, 26kg, 28kg, 30kg, 32kg, etc.

As a general rule, it’s advisable to have at least two different kettlebell weights : a heavier one for two-handed exercises such as swing or goblet squat, and a lighter one for one-handed exercises such as press or snatch.

Untrained woman :

A non-athletic woman will generally start with an 8kg kettlebell for basic exercises such as the swing and goblet squat. For exercises such as the press or snatch, a 4kg kettlebell may be a good choice.

Untrained man :

A non-athletic man will generally start with a 16kg kettlebell for basic exercises such as the swing and goblet squat. For exercises such as the press or snatch, we recommend an 8kg kettlebell or a 12kg kettlebell.

Trained woman :

An athletic woman can start off with a 12kg kettlebell, or even a 16kg kettlebell if she’s already into bodybuilding, for basic exercises such as swing or goblet squat. For press or snatch, an 8kg kettlebell will be useful.

Trained man :

An athletic man can start with a 20kg kettlebell, or even a 24kg kettlebell if he’s already doing bodybuilding, for basic exercises such as swing or goblet squat. For press or snatch, a 16kg kettlebell will be useful.

Ideal solution: OneBell®, the adjustable kettlebell from Eryx Fitness

The Eryx Fitness adjustable kettlebell is a practical and innovative alternative to traditional kettlebells. It allows you to quickly and easily adjust the weight of your kettlebell from 12kg to 32kg, in 1kg increments (except 13kg and 31kg). By removing the bottom part, you can even train at 8kg and 10kg.

The OneBell® is 21 kettlebells in 1, so you save space and money, and don’t have to worry about what weight to buy. In a single tool, you can combine the following weights : kettlebell 8kg, kettlebell 10kg, kettlebell 12kg, kettlebell 14kg, kettlebell 15kg, kettlebell 16kg, kettlebell 17kg, kettlebell 18kg, kettlebell 19kg, kettlebell 20kg, kettlebell 21kg, kettlebell 22kg, kettlebell 23kg, kettlebell 24kg, kettlebell 25kg, kettlebell 26kg, kettlebell 27kg, kettlebell 28kg, kettlebell 29kg, kettlebell 30kg, kettlebell 32kg.

Made from competition-quality steel, you can choose between a classic finish with metal handle or a powder-coated finish for added strength. The Eryx Fitness adjustable kettlebell is easy to use and features removable discs for quick weight adjustment.

To adjust the weight of the Eryx Fitness adjustable kettlebell, simply remove the bottom part by removing the screw, add the desired number of discs, lock them in place with a nut and then replace the bottom part to lock everything in place by tightening the screw.

 

Kettlebell weights: conclusion

In conclusion, the Eryx Fitness modular kettlebell is a practical and innovative alternative to traditional kettlebells. It allows you to quickly and easily adjust the weight of your kettlebell, enabling you to perform a variety of exercises with just one piece of equipment. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, the Eryx Fitness Modular Kettlebell is an excellent choice to help you achieve your fitness goals.

 

Other articles you might like:

• The different types of kettlebells
• Training equipment: guide & comparison