Kettlebells have become a cornerstone in strength and functional fitness training due to their versatility and effectiveness. Their growing popularity is fueled by their ability to target multiple muscle groups with dynamic movements. Big kettlebells, typically weighing over 24kg (53 lbs), are designed for athletes and advanced lifters seeking to build significant strength and power. What sets big kettlebells apart from standard kettlebells is their heavier weight and unique design, which challenges your muscles in ways other equipment cannot. Companies have contributed to the rise of these powerful training tools, offering durable and high-quality products. The increasing preference for big kettlebells reflects their crucial role in building explosive strength, functional fitness, and overall athletic performance.
What Are Big Kettlebells?
Big kettlebells are typically defined as kettlebells that weigh over 24kg (53 lbs), catering to more experienced athletes or those focusing on heavy strength training. These larger kettlebells are designed to target maximum strength, power, and endurance and are ideal for individuals looking to build serious muscle mass and functional strength. While standard kettlebells can range from lighter weights (as low as 4kg or 9 lbs) to around 24kg (53 lbs), big kettlebells offer a significant jump in load, enabling athletes to push their limits.
When compared to standard kettlebells, which are often used for general fitness and conditioning, big kettlebells are better suited for advanced users looking to perform more challenging movements such as heavy swings, cleans, snatches, and squats. These exercises require a greater level of strength, stability, and technique. The increase in weight forces the body to recruit more muscle fibers, especially in the posterior chain (hamstrings, glutes, and lower back), making big kettlebells essential tools for athletes and those training for power and strength.
Popular Sizes for Big Kettlebells
Among big kettlebells, some of the most common sizes range from 32kg (70 lbs) to 48kg (106 lbs). These kettlebells are often used for explosive exercises that demand significant strength and endurance. The 32kg (70 lbs) kettlebell is a popular choice for athletes transitioning from lighter kettlebells to heavier weights, while the 40kg (88 lbs) and 48kg (106 lbs) kettlebells are typically used by advanced lifters who want to maximize their strength gains.
The Biggest Kettlebell: How Heavy Can They Get?
The biggest kettlebell available on the market typically weighs around 72kg (159 lbs) or even more in some specialty models. These extreme kettlebells are primarily used by professional athletes and strength competitors, such as those training for kettlebell sport or Olympic lifting. While they are not common in standard gyms, the biggest kettlebell can be found in specialized training facilities where maximal strength and power development are the primary goals. These kettlebells are used for highly specific, advanced exercises that require extreme skill and technique.
Why Use Big Kettlebells in Your Workout?
Incorporating big kettlebells into your workout can significantly enhance your training routine by pushing your limits and building strength that translates into real-world performance. Large kettlebell training focuses on maximizing power, endurance, and stability, which are critical for athletes, strength enthusiasts, and anyone looking to build serious muscle mass. Here are the key benefits of including big kettlebells in your workout:
Key Benefits of Big Kettlebell Training:
Increase Muscle Mass and Strength
One of the primary benefits of using big kettlebells is the significant increase in muscle mass and strength. Due to the heavy load, these kettlebells force your body to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, especially the core, back, legs, and shoulders. This results in substantial strength gains and muscle hypertrophy, particularly in the posterior chain (glutes, hamstrings, and lower back).
Improve Explosive Power and Endurance
Big kettlebells are excellent for building explosive power, which is crucial in sports and activities that require fast, powerful movements, like sprinting or tackling in football. Exercises like kettlebell swings, cleans, and snatches challenge your body to generate force rapidly, improving both your anaerobic endurance and muscular power. As a result, athletes will see noticeable improvements in their performance during high-intensity training or competition.
Build Functional Strength for Daily Activities
Strength isn’t just about lifting heavy weights; it’s about building functional strength that helps you perform everyday tasks efficiently. Big kettlebells are ideal for developing this kind of strength because they promote movements that mimic real-world actions, such as bending, twisting, lifting, and carrying. Whether it’s picking up heavy objects or getting out of a chair, large kettlebell training ensures your body is prepared for the demands of daily life.
Enhance Core Stability and Full-Body Coordination
Big kettlebells engage the core more effectively than many other forms of resistance training. Movements like kettlebell Turkish get-ups and overhead presses require the stabilization of the core, improving balance, posture, and overall body coordination. Strong core stability is essential for maintaining good form during athletic movements, reducing the risk of injury, and improving performance in sports like football, where balance is key.
Increase Joint Mobility and Flexibility
Many kettlebell exercises involve dynamic movements that promote full range of motion. Large kettlebell exercises, such as windmills or deep squats, stretch and strengthen the muscles around key joints, improving flexibility and reducing stiffness. For athletes, especially in contact sports like football, this can prevent injuries, improve recovery, and ensure optimal movement mechanics.
Boost Mental Toughness
Lifting heavy weights with big kettlebells requires not just physical strength, but mental resilience. The intensity of training with large kettlebell demands focus, determination, and discipline. Over time, this builds mental toughness, making you more resilient in challenging situations, both in training and on the field.
Who Should Use Big Kettlebells?
Big kettlebells are particularly beneficial for those who are ready to push their physical limits. While they may not be suitable for complete beginners, they offer a variety of benefits for intermediate to advanced lifters. Here are the types of athletes and individuals who should consider incorporating big kettlebells into their training:
Intermediate to Advanced Lifters:
Athletes who have already built a solid strength foundation with lighter weights can benefit from the challenge of big kettlebells. These kettlebells provide the extra load required to continue progressing in strength, muscle mass, and power.
Athletes in Explosive Sports:
Big kettlebells are perfect for athletes involved in sports that require explosive movements, such as football, martial arts. These exercises mirror the quick bursts of power and agility needed for sprinting, jumping, tackling, and other sport-specific movements.
Strength Training Enthusiasts:
If your goal is to build strength and increase muscle size, incorporating big kettlebells into your routine will challenge your body to adapt to heavier loads and stimulate muscle growth. For those serious about building strength and improving performance in various fitness domains, large kettlebell training is a powerful tool.
Big kettlebells provide a wide array of benefits, making them an excellent addition to the training routines of athletes, strength enthusiasts, and those looking to build serious functional strength.
Best Big Kettlebells for Big Workouts
When it comes to building serious strength and power, having the right equipment is key. Big kettlebells are designed to handle intense, heavy workouts, making them the perfect tool for athletes, weightlifters, and fitness enthusiasts aiming to push their limits. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best big kettlebells for your training routine? Let’s break down what makes a big kettlebell stand out in your workout and what features you should look for when making your selection.
What Makes the Best Big Kettlebells?
To get the most out of your training, the big kettlebells you choose need to meet certain criteria to ensure they support your goals and last through intense workouts. Here are the essential qualities to look for:
Material Quality
The material of your big kettlebell plays a crucial role in its durability, performance, and comfort during use. Cast iron is the most common material, providing a robust, solid option for most users. However, if you’re looking for competition-style kettlebells, you might opt for competition kettlebells, which are made from steel and are often smaller in size, providing a standardized weight and handle. Steel kettlebells tend to last longer and maintain their integrity under constant use, which is important for big kettlebells that will bear heavy loads.
Handle Design
The handle design is essential for ensuring a comfortable and secure grip, especially when handling big kettlebells. A wider, ergonomically designed handle is ideal for both single-handed and two-handed use, reducing strain on the wrists and fingers. For big kettlebells, it’s particularly important that the handle is smooth but not too slippery, as this allows you to maintain control even when your hands are sweaty. A textured or powder-coated finish can also enhance grip, ensuring safety and comfort throughout your workout.
Durability and Smooth Finish
Durability is key when selecting big kettlebells because they need to withstand frequent, high-intensity training. A smooth, well-finished surface helps prevent damage to your flooring, while ensuring that the kettlebell maintains its aesthetic appearance. A high-quality big kettlebell will feature a durable coating that resists chips and scratches, ensuring it remains functional for long-term use. The design should also allow for easy cleaning to maintain both the appearance and the integrity of the kettlebell.
Kettlebell Big Six: The Top Features of Big Kettlebells
When it comes to choosing the best big kettlebells for your workouts, focusing on these top features will ensure that you’re investing in equipment that meets your training needs:
Weight Options
The best big kettlebells should offer a variety of weight increments, usually starting at 32kg (70 lbs) and going up to 48kg (106 lbs) or more. This allows you to choose the right kettlebell depending on your strength level and workout routine. Big kettlebells come in different weight categories, so you can gradually increase the load as you progress in your training.
Balanced Design
A well-balanced big kettlebell is important for proper form and technique. A balanced kettlebell ensures that the center of gravity is positioned correctly, preventing it from feeling awkward or unstable during exercises like kettlebell swings, cleans, or presses. Look for kettlebells with a symmetrical design and uniform weight distribution, which will promote safer and more effective workouts.
Smooth Finish and Coating
As mentioned earlier, big kettlebells with a smooth finish are essential for both durability and ease of use. Most high-quality kettlebells have a vinyl or powder-coated finish that helps prevent rust and adds a sleek look. The finish should also allow for a non-slip grip, making the kettlebell safer to handle during high-intensity movements.
Versatility in Exercises
The best big kettlebells offer versatility in their design, allowing you to perform a variety of exercises. From swings and squats to Turkish get-ups and snatches, a high-quality kettlebell should handle all types of movements effectively. Make sure your kettlebell has a handle that allows for easy switching between exercises and provides comfort during two-handed lifts.
Ergonomic Handle for Comfort
For big kettlebells, the handle should be thick enough to allow a secure grip but not too bulky. An ergonomic handle will provide comfort during longer sessions, especially for exercises that require a firm grip over time. This will reduce the risk of hand fatigue or discomfort and allow you to complete your workout with better form and more power.
Solid Construction
Ultimately, big kettlebells must be built to last. Solid construction ensures that your kettlebell won’t crack, chip, or lose its integrity after repeated use. Look for kettlebells made of high-quality materials like cast iron or steel, as these are built to endure rigorous workouts, especially for heavy lifts.
Choosing the best big kettlebells for your workouts can greatly enhance your strength training regimen, giving you the power, endurance, and stability required for intense training sessions. Whether you’re lifting heavy for functional strength or incorporating large kettlebell exercises for endurance, investing in a high-quality kettlebell is essential for optimal performance. Keep in mind the factors discussed above, such as material quality, handle design, durability, and versatility, to ensure that you select the right equipment for your training goals.
Big Kettlebells Exercises for Big Weights
When it comes to working with big kettlebells, selecting the right exercises is essential for maximizing strength, power, and endurance. Incorporating maxed kettlebells into your workout can take your training to the next level, allowing you to challenge your muscles in new ways. Plus size kettlebell workouts are designed to target multiple muscle groups and increase functional strength while ensuring that you get the most out of heavy weights. Below are some of the best kettlebell exercises that are perfect for working with big kettlebells, along with key techniques and benefits to keep in mind.
Ballistic Movements (Swing, Snatch, Clean)
Ballistic movements are dynamic exercises that engage multiple muscle groups and are highly effective for building explosive power and endurance. Using big kettlebells in ballistic movements requires proper technique and control to ensure safety and maximize the benefits.
Techniques for Swinging Big Kettlebells Safely
The kettlebell swing is one of the most popular exercises, especially for developing posterior chain strength, which is essential for sprinting, jumping, and other explosive movements in sports. When working with big kettlebells, it’s important to focus on your hip hinge technique. Begin with your feet shoulder-width apart, grasp the kettlebell handle with both hands, and bend your knees slightly. Drive your hips back (not your knees), keeping a neutral spine, and then explosively thrust your hips forward, swinging the kettlebell up to chest height. Focus on using your glutes, hamstrings, and core to power the movement, avoiding any strain on your lower back.
Benefits of Snatches and Cleans for Explosive Power
The kettlebell snatch and clean are excellent exercises for building full-body power, improving explosiveness, and developing coordination. Big kettlebells amplify the benefits of these movements by challenging the muscles more significantly. Here are six key benefits:
Improved Hip Power: Both snatches and cleans engage the hips, helping you develop the explosive power needed for activities like sprinting or tackling.
Full-Body Engagement: These exercises activate your legs, core, and upper body, making them highly efficient for total-body conditioning.
Enhanced Grip Strength: Handling big kettlebells requires significant grip strength, improving your performance in other lifts and sports.
Increased Shoulder Stability: The overhead component of the snatch and clean builds shoulder stability and mobility, crucial for preventing injuries.
Improved Conditioning: These high-intensity movements are excellent for building cardiovascular endurance while also developing strength.
Functional Movement Pattern: The snatch and clean mimic real-world movements, making them valuable for sports and daily activities.
Strength Training Movements (Deadlift, Turkish Getup)
Strength training movements like the deadlift and Turkish get-up are key to building functional strength when working with big kettlebells. These exercises are particularly beneficial for improving overall stability, balance, and muscle development.
Importance of Deadlifts and Turkish Get-ups for Heavy Kettlebell Lifters
Both the deadlift and Turkish get-up focus on building strength and mobility, making them essential exercises for anyone working with maxed kettlebells. The deadlift targets the entire posterior chain, from your glutes and hamstrings to your lower back. When performing a deadlift with a big kettlebell, ensure your back stays straight, your shoulders are pulled back, and the kettlebell is kept close to your body for the best form. The Turkish get-up is a full-body exercise that enhances core strength, stability, and coordination. By holding a big kettlebell overhead, you engage your shoulders and core to maintain control while transitioning through a series of movements to go from lying on the floor to standing up. This is excellent for building functional strength and improving overall body awareness.
Core Exercises (Windmill, Russian Twist)
Core stability is essential for every athlete, and using heavier kettlebells in core exercises can take your strength and endurance to the next level. The increased weight of big kettlebells challenges your muscles more intensely, helping you build a stronger, more stable core.
Using Heavier Kettlebells for Challenging Core Exercises
The windmill is one of the best kettlebell exercises for targeting the core, shoulders, and hips. When performing the windmill with a big kettlebell, start by holding the kettlebell overhead with one arm, and then slowly hinge at the hips, lowering your torso to the side while keeping your legs straight. This movement not only strengthens the obliques but also improves flexibility in the hips and shoulders. The Russian twist is another effective core exercise, especially when using big kettlebells for added resistance. Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat. Hold the kettlebell in front of your chest and lean back slightly. Then, rotate your torso to one side and tap the kettlebell to the floor, engaging your core throughout the movement. The added weight from the big kettlebell increases the challenge, helping to build rotational strength and endurance.
Incorporating big kettlebells into your workout is an effective way to build strength, power, and endurance, especially when performing explosive movements, strength exercises, and core-focused drills. Whether you’re swinging, cleaning, deadlifting, or performing windmills, the use of maxed kettlebells ensures that you’re pushing your muscles to their limits, leading to significant gains in functional strength and athletic performance. Try adding these plus size kettlebell workouts into your routine to take your training to the next level and see remarkable improvements in your fitness journey.
How to Clean and Maintain Big Kettlebells?
Caring for your big kettlebells is essential for preserving their durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Proper cleaning and maintenance not only extend the lifespan of your kettlebells but also ensure safety during your workouts. Whether you are using big kettlebells for heavy lifting or high-intensity exercises, keeping them in top condition is key. Below are some helpful tips on how to clean and maintain your big kettlebells, so they continue to perform at their best.
Cleaning Tips
Proper cleaning is crucial to prevent the buildup of dirt, sweat, and grime, which can damage the kettlebell’s finish over time. Cleaning also ensures that you maintain a hygienic workout environment.
Wipe with a Damp Cloth
After each use, especially after intense big kettlebells workouts, take a damp cloth and wipe down the kettlebell. This will remove sweat, dust, and debris. Using a damp cloth will also ensure that you don’t leave moisture on the kettlebell’s surface, which could contribute to rust.
Use Mild Soap for Deep Cleaning
For deeper cleaning, you can use mild soap mixed with warm water. Apply a small amount of soap to a cloth or sponge and gently scrub the surface of the big kettlebells. Be sure to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish or the grip of the kettlebell.
Dry Thoroughly After Cleaning
After wiping down the kettlebell, make sure to dry it thoroughly with a dry cloth. This is particularly important for big kettlebells made from cast iron or steel, as moisture can lead to rust. By drying the kettlebell properly, you ensure that it remains in good condition and ready for your next workout.
Use Steel Wool for Rust Prevention
If you notice any small spots of rust on your big kettlebells, gently scrub the affected areas with fine steel wool. This helps remove rust buildup without damaging the surface. After removing rust, wipe the kettlebell with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Polish the Surface
To maintain the smooth finish and appearance of your kettlebell, you can occasionally polish it. Use a mild metal polish or a wax-based cleaner to give the big kettlebells a shiny, smooth surface. This also helps prevent rust from forming by providing a thin protective layer on the kettlebell’s surface.
Check for Loose Parts
While cleaning your big kettlebells, it’s a good idea to inspect the handle and the body for any loose or damaged parts. Tighten any screws or bolts as needed to ensure that your kettlebell remains secure and safe to use.
Storage Solutions
Storing your big kettlebells properly is just as important as cleaning them. Proper storage ensures that they stay in good shape and prevents unnecessary damage. Here are a few suggestions for safe and effective storage:
Kettlebell Racks
One of the best ways to store big kettlebells is by using a dedicated kettlebell rack. These racks are designed to hold multiple kettlebells and keep them organized. Make sure the rack is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the big kettlebells, as they can be heavy and may cause the rack to tip if not placed correctly.
Kettlebell Hooks or Pegs
If you prefer to hang your kettlebells, consider using kettlebell hooks or pegs. Hanging your big kettlebells helps save space, keeps them off the floor, and ensures they stay dry. Make sure the hooks are securely installed to support the weight of the kettlebells and avoid accidents.
Non-Slippery Surfaces
When storing your big kettlebells on the floor, it’s important to keep them on a solid, non-slippery surface. Avoid leaving them on a smooth, slippery floor, as this can cause them to roll and potentially damage nearby equipment or become a tripping hazard. Rubber flooring or gym mats are ideal for storing kettlebells, as they provide grip and absorb impact if the kettlebell is dropped.
Avoid Storing Outside
Never store big kettlebells outside or in a damp environment. Exposure to moisture and temperature fluctuations can cause rust and deterioration, particularly in kettlebells made from cast iron. Keep your kettlebells in a dry, temperature-controlled area to ensure they remain in good condition.
Maintaining and cleaning your big kettlebells is essential for preserving their performance and longevity. By following simple cleaning steps, like wiping them down after use and using mild soap for deeper cleans, you can protect their finish and ensure they’re always ready for your next workout. Additionally, proper storage solutions such as kettlebell racks, hooks, or non-slippery surfaces will keep your kettlebells safe and organized. By taking care of your big kettlebells, you can ensure they continue to support your fitness goals for years to come.
FAQs about Big Kettlebells
The largest kettlebell available typically weighs around 70-100 pounds (approximately 32-45 kg). However, some specialized kettlebells can go even heavier, reaching weights of up to 150 pounds (about 68 kg) for advanced strength training purposes. These ultra-heavy kettlebells are generally used by athletes or weightlifters who require extreme resistance to enhance their strength training routines. When choosing a kettlebell, it’s essential to select a weight that matches your current strength and fitness level, as using an excessively heavy kettlebell can increase the risk of injury.
Yes, it is possible to build significant muscle mass using only kettlebells. Kettlebell workouts can provide a full-body exercise routine that targets various muscle groups simultaneously. Exercises such as kettlebell swings, cleans, presses, squats, and snatches can help increase strength and build muscle. The key to muscle growth is progressive overload, which involves gradually increasing the resistance or weight over time. By consistently challenging your muscles with heavier kettlebells and incorporating a balanced diet rich in protein, you can achieve hypertrophy (muscle growth). Additionally, kettlebells improve functional strength, stability, and cardiovascular endurance, making them a versatile tool for overall fitness.
The suitability of a 20 lb kettlebell depends on the individual’s fitness level and experience. For most beginners, a 20 lb (approximately 9 kg) kettlebell may be a reasonable starting weight for lower body exercises like squats and deadlifts. However, it might be too heavy for upper body movements, especially if the person is new to strength training. A common recommendation is to start with a lighter weight, such as 8-12 lbs (about 4-6 kg) for women and 12-16 lbs (about 6-8 kg) for men, and gradually increase the weight as strength improves. Always focus on maintaining proper form to prevent injury and ensure effective muscle engagement.
A 35 lb (approximately 16 kg) kettlebell can be quite challenging, even for experienced exercisers. Its use depends largely on the individual’s fitness level and the specific exercises being performed. While a 35 lb kettlebell may be suitable for lower body exercises or two-handed swings for someone with moderate strength, it might be too heavy for upper body exercises or single-arm movements. As with any weight, it’s crucial to prioritize proper form over the amount of weight lifted. Ensure that you can perform the exercises correctly without straining to prevent injury. If a 35 lb kettlebell feels too heavy, consider using a lighter weight and work up to it.
Welcome! I’m Jordan Mitchell, the dedicated editor at Leadman Fitness, where we specialize in manufacturing high-quality bumper plates, barbells, weight machines, kettlebells, and dumbbells. With a passion for fitness and a keen eye for detail, I ensure that our product information is clear, accurate, and engaging for our customers. My role involves collaborating closely with our design and production teams to highlight the innovative features and superior craftsmanship that set Leadman Fitness apart in the industry. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, I’m here to provide you with the information you need to achieve your training goals with our top-of-the-line equipment.