A little learning is a dangerous thing…

Alexander Pope (1688 - 1744) wrote 'An Essay on Criticism' in 1709. In it he wrote:
"A little learning is a dangerous thing; drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring: there shallow draughts intoxicate the brain, and drinking largely sobers us again."

The modern meaning translates to mean that people with a small amount of knowledge often think that they have more 'expertise' than they really do. Sometimes, when this perceived 'expertise' translates into action, it can result in unpredictable or even tragic consequences.

This is aimed at those of you who think they know about kettlebells.  It seems as soon as someone hears ‘kettlebells’ they either think they know how to use them or automatically think they are harmful to the body, specifically the back.  When USED PROPERLY, Kettlebells are a safe and effective fitness tool that will strengthen the back as well as build the muscles in the glutes and hamstrings.  The ‘Kettlebell Swing’ is a leg dominant exercise.  When taught proper form, the back does not come into play.  The Kettlebell Swing Movement is based on the ‘hinge’, which is flexion from the hip, not at the waist which will compromise the back.  In addition to learning proper form and movement, the appropriate weight should be used.  Using a kettlebell that is too heavy or too light can throw off your balance and form which can compromise the body.

We, the Fitness Coaches at KettlebellFitnessCT, are very precise when teaching any kettlebell movement.  Before a client even picks up a bell, body movement is evaluated to be sure the client has the range of motion necessary to execute any exercise, not just kettlebells.  We then work to improve movement and flexibility. The client becomes more aware of their body’s movement which will prevent injury.  Movement Before Strength, Strength Before Intensity!

So, before attacking kettlebells as the reason for injury, find out who trained the person and how they were trained.  The initial consult is as much for the potential client as it is for the fitness coach.  During your evaluation session, ask questions. There’s a difference between feeling muscle soreness (which may be for the first time) and pain. Communication between you and your fitness coach is extremely important.  Pushing through an exercise set is great but with that said; if something doesn’t feel right, say something.  An exercise can always be modified or, in some cases, may need to be eliminated. Exercise is necessary to keep the body healthy.  But be sure you are exercising in a safe environment.

Also, kettlebells have become very accessible and people are buying them without knowing how to properly execute the exercises.  It is very difficult to learn form from a DVD.  This is another cause of kettlebell injury. 

If you want to explore kettlebells, get started on a fitness plan, or take your fitness to the next level, work with a qualified fitness professional.  KettlebellFitnessCT Fitness Coaches are dedicated to helping you meet your fitness goals and improve your overall quality of well-being.  We invite you to come in and talk with us and see our facility.

See you at the gym…