Originating in Russia, a kettlebell is a centuries-old training tool that looks like a cannon ball with a handle. It is thought that the original kettlebells were actually counter-weights used in Russian markets. Country folk started testing their strength with them and eventually they became very popular in Russia as a training method, and still are to this day. A Russian strong man is referred to as a "Girevik" which translates to "Kettlebell Man". Girya is Russian for Kettlebell.
Kettlebell training is different than other forms of weight training because many parts of the body are exercised simultaneously, and in addition kettlebell training elevates the heart rate for effective cardiovascular training.
Kettlebells can be used in ballistic (explosive) swinging movements utilizing the whole body along with momentum or used in more traditional press and squat exercises. The displacement of the weight from the hand requires that the stabilizing muscles engage more with each movement and therefore requiring more muscle firing at once. Kettlebell exercises are whole-body exercises requiring full body integration and core stabilization. There is no such thing as isolated muscle work in kettlebell training.
We offer more kettlebell classes and have more Kettlebell Certified Instructors than any other facility in Canada. Safety and proper form is our number one concern and it should be yours too. All of our instructors have passed the rigorous Agatsu Kettlebell Certification taught by Shawn Mozen, Canada's leading kettlebell authority. This is your assurance that our instructors understand safety and proper form first and foremost.
Our signature classes are a mixture of skills building and high intensity circuit training making for both a fun and challenging experience. The intensity of the session can be modified by using different sizes of kettlebells or by changing the number of repetitions. For this reason beginners and those with experience can participate in the same class.
Kettlebell training will build long lean muscles, improve strength and power in the upper body, core and lower body and increase co-ordination, joint mobility and overall endurance.
Class Descriptions
Kettlebell - This 45 minute class will give fast results for strength, endurance and muscle toning by challenging both the muscular and cardiovascular systems with dynamic, total body movements.
Kettlebell Sport -This is a one hour class that focuses on the fundamentals of the Kettlebell Sport lifts of Jerk, Long Cycle Clean and Jerk, and Snatch. Technical aspects of the lifts will be covered along with challenging supporting drills and circuits. It is a good idea to have participated in a few regular Kettlebell classes before your first KB Sport class.
When we say "Kettlebell", we mean "Strength". Pavel Tsatsouline
