Which Kettlebell should I use?

Kettlebell Types

There are two main types of kettlebells: Standard (cast iron) Kettlebells or Competition style Kettlebells.

The main difference between the two is size. Competition Style bells are always the same size regardless of weight. “Standard” bells increase in size as the weight goes up. There are pro’s and con’s to both. A lot of people find standard bells easier when they first start as they are smaller and less awkward. However, moving up the weights means using a bigger bell and relearning the movements and subtly changing the exercises sometimes.

Competition bells take a little longer to master initially due to their size but moving up the weights is easier as the technique always remains the same.

The second less significant difference is colours. Competition bells are coloured dependent upon weight. Cast Iron ones typically aren’t.

One final thing to say about the competition style bells, if you want to enter Girevik competitions you must buy the uniform-sized competition bells. There would be nothing worse than working on your numbers for 3 months only to get to competition day and realise you’re using different shaped bells and your technique won’t stand up. By using Competition bells from the offset you will ensure no surprises!