I've had a number of emails lately from enthusiasts asking me about this issue.
So, in case you weren’t informed , there is a sport called Kettlebell Sport (GS - where the “G” stands for “Girya,” or Kettlebell) which originated in Russia and arrived in the US in the mid-2000s.
Up until that time, the only types of kettlebells you could get were the cast iron “Strength & conditioning” type.
This is likely the standard shape kettlebell you’ve probably used or at least seen .
Here’s what the Competition Bells look like :
And here's what they look like compared to each other:
(Image courtesy: Zack Henderson)
Now, honestly, I’ve only used Comp Bells a some times.
And I like them.
But I’ve always used the cast iron kettlebell kind and stick with them .
Here’s why:Thicker Handles → Stronger Grip
Ever increasing bell size as weight gets heavier → More stability demand → More work → More variety
Cheaper (usually) → More bells
Bigger bells → Over 48kg if you want to go really heavy
Now that doesn’t mean Comp Bells are bad . Not at all.
Here are some benefits:
Same size, different weights → Consistent feel, probably more (higher) reps
Consistent size → Less stability demand → Easier to lift
Smaller handle diameter → Easier on the grip → Less forearm fatigue
Less forearm fatigue → Higher reps per set
… This is likely why these are tailored for the frequent kettlebell lifting found in Kettlebell Sport.
And, finally , depending on the manufacturer , you can get Adjustable Comp Bells, which are an “all-in-one” solution from 16kg - 32kg → Saves space
(Image courtesy: Bells of Steel)
However, the reality is this: No matter the type of kettlebell you pick, it’s ultimately your decision.
I recommend testing both and finding out which suits you best .
Ultimately, at the end of the day, it’s not the kettlebell variety you select , it’s how you use your kettlebell that influences the results you get.
Random workouts = Random results.
Professionally designed programming = Consistent and trackable gains in muscle and strength along with body fat reduction.
Stay Strong,
Geoff Neupert.