Kettlebells are a really popular weight training tool that can give you a lot of bang for your exercise buck.  They were originally used in Russia and have become popular in the United States, especially among athletes.

In addition to resistance training, kettlebells also provide cardiovascular conditioning, increased endurance, improved agility, and better balance.

Because they are new to most people, and because they can be pretty heavy, it’s important to have proper instruction when you first start using kettlebells.  The exercises can involve swinging and jerking, which works well if you do it right, but it can be tough on your muscles and joints if you’re not doing it correctly.

If you want to try a kettlebell workout, check out some of these classes offered in Portland:

• Body by John – Tons of kettlebell classes, personal training, boot camp, and other fun fitness activities.
• Iron Balls Fitness – Instructor Frank Navarro offers private and group instruction.  He has trained police, firefighters, and college athletes, so if you’re the intense type, this might be the class for you.
• The Body Architect – Kettlebell classes are offered five days a week and all levels are welcome.

It’s never too late to try something new, and kettlebells are a great way to get fit and stay that way!