Top 5 Best Adjustable Kettlebells: The Secret to Your Success
Decades ago, the word kettlebell would often conjure up images of bulky weightlifters. In the last 10+ years Kettlebells have seen an incredible resurgence in the fitness space. They are versatile, dynamic, lightweight, and just about anyone can (and should) use them to safely power through an intense workout that combines both strength training and cardio in one.
This comprehensive guide to the Best 5 Adjustable Kettlebells is here to clear up any confusion or misconceptions, educate you on how they work, and give you a complete breakdown of the best models. Read on to discover the truth about these devices and find the one that works best for you.
The Best Adjustable Kettle Bells
Model
Rating
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Frequently Asked Questions
Fitrated Bowflex Selectech Kettlebell Giveaway
Kettlebells: Know The Basics
- Kettlebells are cast-iron weights that are round in shape and have a handle
- Their shape allows for more variation in grip and movement when compared to dumbbells and other similar devices
- Some kettlebells are adjustable, allowing you to save space in your workout room
- Durable and relatively lightweight, they are easy to handle and can be integrated into your routine
What an Adjustable Kettlebell Can Do for You
Kettlebells are a great way to lose weight, increase muscle tone, and add variety to any exercise routine. Given the range of motion covered by each kettlebell exercise, you also accomplish a lot in a brief period; this allows you to power through workouts quicker than you would be using conventional weights.
The benefits of using kettlebells in your workout routine include:
- Full-Body Conditioning: Using a kettlebell gives you both cardiovascular and resistance training benefits, improving muscle tone and increasing metabolism at the same time.
- Variety of Movements: When you use a kettlebell, there are a lot of traditional and non-traditional moves you can do, keeping you engaged mentally and physically. From kettlebell swings and squats, to windmills and traditional lateral pulls, there are endless ways to mix up your kettlebell routine.
- Engages Your Core: Unlike traditional dumbbells, kettlebells are not centrally balanced, meaning a kettlebell workout will also help you build core strength. Using your core also strengthens back muscles, improving range of motion and flexibility.
- Affordability and Space Savings: Since these kettlebells are capable to be adjusted they take up less space than a full kettlebell set, and MUCH less space than a conventional dumbbell and barbell set. They’re also much more affordable than the latter.
How to Use Adjustable Kettlebells
Most kettlebells have a similar system to adjust them, and it is both simple and safe. The top of the bell will have either a button or button/slide mechanism that you push or slide to unlock the kettlebell. (Note: each model is slightly different. Make sure to check the user manual coming along.) Once you unlock it, simply add or remove weight from the kettlebell to suit your strength level and intended workout. When the weight is where you want it, simply lock the kettlebell again and you’re ready to go.
Easy Kettlebell Exercises You Should Know
For those who are just getting started with kettlebells, here are some exercises you can do. Of course, before starting any exercise routine, consult your physician.
Kettlebell Swing
This is the most basic, and essential move you need to learn. The key is to use a fluid motion and keep your back straight throughout. You may want to try without the bell at first to get the hang of it. Kettlebell swings are great for your hips, arms, and thighs, so long as you do them right. Start with legs hip wide and lean forward, legs slightly bent, with the kettlebell on the floor between your legs.
Hold the bell by the handle, and in one smooth motion, swing it back between your legs, then bring it up quickly to about shoulder height. Repeat 10-20 times to start.
Lateral Lunge and Biceps Curl
Start by standing with your feet together, the kettlebell in your right hand, palm facing in and down at your side. Step to the side in a lunge with your left leg, as you lean forward and lower the kettlebell to shin height. Then, curl the kettlebell up, wrist straight. Lower the kettlebell back down, and bring your left leg back to the starting position. Do as many as you can in 30 seconds, then switch sides (right leg lunging and left arm curling).
Halo
Begin standing with feet hip distance apart and grab the kettlebell with your hands on either side of the handle, weight facing up. Hold the bell chest height. Lift the kettlebell towards the right side of your face and slowly bring it around the back of your head to the left side Repeat for 60 seconds at a time, continuously alternating directions (once around to the left, once around to the right).
Top 5 Adjustable Kettlebells: The Secret to Your Success Round-up
It’s a sure bet that having read my Best Kettlebells: The Secret to Your Success guide, that you are as keen on kettlebells as I am. This guide is proof positive of the many advantages that come from owning one of these multipurpose devices. Whether you are just starting out or have been exercising for years, a kettlebell can transform your routine and help you achieve your goals. They streamline workouts, saving you time while maximizing results, which will inspire and encourage you to keep going. They truly are an all-in-one device that gets the job done, and one that will make your workouts something you look forward to.
1. NewMe Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell
I fell in love the with the NewMe Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell as soon as I saw it. Screaming of the Old School, the 15.03″ x 8.18″ x 1.73″ handle-and-threaded-screw approach to adjustability makes sense to a toddler. Fashioned just like a hook screw, one simply removes the bottom nut and can slide up to 6.25″ worth of plate into position. The unit is rated up to a whopping 900 lbs and works with Olympic plates or really any other 1″ or bigger. That’s a lot of punch for a 6-pound tool.
What’s great about this piece is the simplicity and flat-out indestructability. There’s no real weight max here. No tricky dials. And no way for it to fail. The only potential downside I’ve noticed while using is that the Olympic plates are indeed wider at the base than a traditional kettlebell, meaning you’ll have to take a wider stance when using. That said, four 25-pound plates slide on easy enough for 100 pounds and the handle is ergonomically designed to great gripping.
Priced under $60, it’s considerably less expensive than the rivals. Overall, it’s a treasure for any home gym.
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2. Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell
For fitness fans with a taste for function, it’s really Bowflex’s SelectTech quick change mechanism that’s the key to the 840 Adjustable Kettlebell ranking. This configuration is a simple ‘dial and go’ and on the top of the kettlebell, one can rotate the dial to the setting of your preference—anywhere between 8 and 40 pounds—then just pick up the kettlebell and begin working out.
The kettlebell covers six different weight settings – 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 pounds. Bowflex has also created a healthy series of 24 kettlebell workout videos to help users add a bit of diversity to their routines.
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3. Stamina 36-Pound Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell
Those looking to take their upper-body routine to the next level will appreciate this kettlebell, featuring a rounded base and square pad that accommodates push-ups. Made entirely of cast iron, this model is durable and sturdy (no rocking or swaying), making it well worth the price tag. The design of its handle gives you a secure grip, and enables one-handed or two-handed holds, allowing you to perform a wide variety of exercises. Using Stamina’s patented pin and lock weight system, you can easily adjust the 36-pound bell.
The base is 16-pounds, and there are six 4 pound plates, so you can customize your weight between 16 and 36 pounds. In addition, the fact that the plates fit inside the kettlebell saves space and makes it easy to transport should you wish to take your workout on the road. Great for beginners, bodybuilders and basically everyone in between.
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4. Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell
This adjustable kettlebell from Powerblock is only one of two on our list that stashes away its weight plates, keeping your arms (and possibly arm hair) away from getting pinched. It uses a pin-style locking system similar to a multifunction strength training rig at the gym, allowing you to swap weights on the fly without interrupting your workout.
It comes with an impressive 5-year warranty and is extremely compact – perfect for those who are tight on space (its dimensions are 4.25″ W x 5.75″ L x 10″ H, much smaller than others in our list). While a little on the pricey side compared to some of the alternatives, overall it’s one of the best built units we’ve seen on the market.
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5. Kettlebell Kings Adjustable Kettlebell
Those looking for an intense workout that can vary in weight will be impressed with this kettlebell from Kettlebell Kings. Its clever adjustable design effectively turns it into seven kettlebells in one. The base is 10-pounds, with a half dozen 5-pound plates, so you can go from 10 to 40 pounds in an instant. It uses a secure slide-and-lock mechanism to add weight, so you never have to worry about plates sliding out or falling and hitting your foot.
It also helps distribute weight evenly throughout the bell, making it easier to manipulate. The lower weights are great for cardio, while the heavier weights work best for resistance training. This is a good choice if you are a beginner, or have limited space in your workout room.
