GoFit 35-Pound Dark Green Kettlebell with Vinyl Coating, Iron Core Training DVD and Exercise Booklet
Sure, kettlebells are kind of a fitness fad right now in the US, but don’t let that stop you. In addition to being popular, they are also awesome. A historic Russian analogue to the dumbbell, a kettlebell is basically an iron cannonball with a handle on top. Kettlebell exercises typically concentrate on engaging many muscle groups at a time by swinging or lifting the kettlebell.
Pavel Tsatsouline, one of the trainers most responsible for popularizing the kettlebell in the States, promises that a good kettlebell workout will work out your whole body, burn fat, and build flexibility, and so far, I kind of believe him. I feel like I am getting a great all around workout, building muscle tone, and building core strength. Even better, it is much easier to combine light strength with cardio using the kettlebell. I can get my heart rate up to 85% and get a great workout, and I love it.
This particular kettlebell is 35 pounds (or just a smidgen short of one “pood”, the Czarist russian unit of measurement that is often used for these things). That’s the recommended starting weight for a man without much recent lifting experience, and as an out-of-shape man, I can assure you that it’s a good starting weight. It’s challenging, but not impossible, as I start with basic exericises like swings and squats, and work my way up. I think the weight will last me for a while, as I can increase the number of reps and the difficulty of the exercise, but if I stick with it, I will eventually need a second KB, a bigger KB, or both.
Unlike most of the alternatives, the GoFit bells come with a vinyl coating, and have a flat section on the side of the ball where they put the weight and logo. I like the vinyl, which I think *might* protect my floor somewhat if I drop it, and which should protect the ball itself from minor dings and nicks. On the other hand, some reviewers don’t like it, arguing that if the ball bounces, you’re in more trouble than if it doesn’t. I don’t have a problem with the flat area, but some people on the net complain about it.
The GoFit balls also come with a basic video that shows the form for several exercises. It’s not a workout video, but just basic instruction. Kettlebells can hurt your back if done incorrectly, so the best thing to do is to get a session with a local kettlebell trainer. (This will also let you try out kettlebells before you buy, so I highly recommend it). If you don’t want to spend an hour with a trainer, I recommend that you spend some careful time considering proper form, using resources like Enter The Kettlebell! Strength Secret of The Soviet Supermen or From Russia With Tough Love.
Update 03/12/09: I love the GoFit kettlebell, but cost-conscious buyers may want to consider alternatives like the J Fit 35-Pound Cast Iron Kettlebell. It doesn’t have the vinyl coating or the powder-treated handle, but (1) it has a less expensive base price and (2) inexplicably, the J Fit kettlebell is eligible for supersaver or prime shipping and the GoFit is not.
Feature
- Each GoFit Kettlebell includes a training DVD and workout booklet
- The included DVD & booklet feature Sarah Lurie, the owner/founder of Iron Core Kettlebell in San Diego, CA.
- Colored, vinyl coating helps protect hardwood & tile floors & looks great!
- 35lb Kettlebell is dark green
Overview
GoFit’s line of premium quality Kettlebells include an introductory training DVD done by Sarah Lurie, the owner/founder of Iron Core Kettlebell in San Diego, CA in every package. Sarah Lurie has been featured on E! News, in the NY Times and in many major
List Price
$89.99
Offer Price
$63.99
Available at Amazon Check Price Now!
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Jan 31, 2010 16:43:35
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