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Olympic Core Training
Kettlebells are generally used to train the Olympic lifts (clean and snatch) and variations of these movements. Although limited
with the amount of weight that can be used (for most this won't be a problem), these lifts when done with a kettlebell allow
a much wider range of movement. Which in turn will only lead to greater dynamic flexibility.Also, consider the fact that the
weight of a kettlebell is very unlike that of a dumbbell or barbell (it is displaced) and is much harder to control, then
you're in the perfect position to improve your core strength and core stabilization.
To compare the range of motion available to you with a kettlebell, think about where you lift the bar from when doing barbell
olympic lifting with either snatch or clean, this can either be directly from the floor or the hang. Now take a kettlebell
and it can either be taken straight from the floor or swung between the legs, hence creating a longer path and boosting your
flexibility capacity
Try doing front squats with kettlebells and you'll get a real core boost. Although the barbell front squat is a great core
builder, you'll find with kettlebells (using either one or two) there's no place to hide! The weight will pull you forward
big time and also stabilising them with your shoulder (as there trying to go sideways) will be a real battle, but will put
stress directly onto your quads and core.
I really doesn't matter what sport you participate in you need to build a really strong core, it is the centre of your potential
in sport. If your weak in this area it's like having a door with no hinges on (how un-functional is that)
If you cannot stabilize, your core, then you will be lacking and seriously ineffective in your sport and that is regardless
of how strong any of your other body parts may be.
Although the standard kettlebell lifts such as the clean, snatch and swing will greatly enhance your core strength, there
are many other exercises that can be done to give you an iron like core.
The Windmill
This movement is very similar to the triangle pose used in Yoga movements.
View a video of this HERE
Turkish Get Up
This exercise is not similar to anything! Apart from lying on the floor and getting up off of it with a weight in one hand.
You will it so many muscle group with this exercise it's an instant must do for any kettlebeller.
View a video of this HERE
In conclusion, do these exercises to strengthen your core and become much more athletic. Train as one piece and you'll increase
your performance.
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