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By Michael Sawh and Esat Dedezade
The best kettlebells are here to save you from muscle training tedium
We're well aware that selecting the best kettlebells is only a small part of your home gym journey, but it's an important part to get right nonetheless. While your treadmills and rowing machines might cost more, getting your resistance bands, dumbbells and, yes, kettlebells on par with everything else is what truly sets an iron jungle apart.
These are nifty tools: ones that can transform both your fitness regime and your body when used correctly and consistently. There are a series of kettlebell workouts you can rely on that will help you improve your strength and better target your in-gym goals in order to target sports such as running, climbing and cycling. The only question really is: which to buy?
“But surely a kettlebell is just a kettlebell?” we hear you cry. Well, yes and no. While most follow the same rough design (easy-grip handle, heavy weight section), there are in fact several differences that you'll want to consider when shopping for a new set. The first is a case of space: you can certainly buy a whole rack of kettlebells in varying weights if you want to, but those with smaller spaces could also look for adjustable versions that use a series of sliding plates to tweak. More space for fitness gadgets, a new cross trainer, or even a state-of-the-art workout mirror!
Set on adding a kettlebell to your repertoire? You've made a great choice (no more waiting for the weight you need at the gym!). First, let's take a look at some more things you ought to know.
A fabulous option for fans of fitness gadgets and tech of all kinds, Jaxjox's smart kettlebell is just that: profoundly clever. With a breadth of weights up to 19kg, this toy comes with an accompanying app which provides stats on everything from real-time performance to progress.
As no-nonsense in their price as their design, Amazon's Basics collection of iron weights is a simple win for those who aren't bothered about a snazzier design.
The kind of equipment that wouldn't look out of place in either a fancy 5 star hotel gym or Patrick Bateman's front room, Nohrd's leather and wood kettlebells may be spendy, but god are they gorgeous.
SKIP TO: Kettlebells vs dumbbells: what’s the difference? | What are the best kettlebell exercises to do? | How heavy a kettlebell should you go for? | What’s the difference between cast-iron and competition kettlebells?
Both common kinds of free weights you'll find in any commercial gym, kettlebells and dumbbells can transform your fitness and body tone, but they are quite different in their approach. Thanks to its improved grip comfort, kettlebells are ideal for complicated movement-based exercises. You'll likely get a lot of presses, squats and Turkish get-ups done with yours. Dumbbells, on the other hand, usually come in pairs and are better suited to upper body exercises like bicep curls, tricep extensions and lateral raises.
There are as many guides to kettlebell workouts as there are kettlebells, and that doesn't only include ours (though ours is very good). Most fitness apps will include sections of workouts dedicated to the equipment, if not entire routines using only a kettlebell. Apps such as Kettlebell (Android and iOS) also serve as a great way to dive in, as they offer routine and structure, along with instructions on how to perform different exercises safely.
If you haven't picked one up before, 12kg to 20kg is a sensible starting zone, even if you're already acquainted with very heavy weights in the dumbbell and barbell department. It's best practice to start smaller so as to perfect your technique first: not only will it help you avoid injuries, it'll also mean you're ultimately reaping more rewards from your kettlebell-related sets. Once you're used to it all, you could consider stepping up to the 24kg to 30kg mark and beyond. We recommend an adjustable set even if you're already comfortable with higher numbers since it's still worthwhile having the option of lifting lighter during any potential recovery periods you may have.
Cast-iron kettlebells are considered the classic design for beginners, supporting exercises that require gripping the usually V-shaped handle with two hands. They’re typically made from one piece of metal and when you move up in weight, the kettlebells become larger.
Competition kettlebells, in contrast, are made from steel and are built for those mastering more technical moves. They come colour coded and remain the same size at all weights. This is the option to go for if your sessions are about perfecting that technique.
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Pros: Affordable | Includes heavier options Cons: Colourful accents might not be for everyone
With a square design to their handles and a colourful strip running through the body of each, these kettlebells have a futuristic bent that wouldn’t be out of place on a space station orbiting the earth. They’re competitively priced thanks to their availability at Decathlon and with models up to 24kg, they’re some of the heavier kettlebells on the market. From £9.99. At decathlon.co.uk
Pros: Eye-catching design | Incredibly heavy max weight Cons: Expensive
Do you need your kettlebell to resemble a bigfoot, gorilla, chimpanzee and other primates? Probably not, but there’s no denying the visual appeal that makes this offering from Onnit stand out from the crowd. This Bigfoot version is the heaviest in the collection, weighing in at an impressive 41kg. If you can shift that over your shoulders with one arm, you’d probably beat an actual gorilla in a fight. From £70. At onnit.com
Pros: Cool design | Long lasting Cons: Non-rubberised | Non-adjustable
Gravity claims that its cast iron Spartan kettlebell will survive an apocalypse, and while none of us will be around to verify this after Armageddon, we have no reason to disbelieve such a serious lifetime guarantee. This mean-looking, Spartan helmet-shaped weight comes in solid cast iron, meaning that its cool design is backed up by a truly indestructible composition. The handle thickness is consistent across each of its four weight choices too, meaning that you’ll be competition compliant through every rep you complete. From £43.95. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Study | Drop-safe rubberising Cons: Plain in design | Non-adjustable
Plain and classic in design, these Adidas kettlebells are made from rubberised cast iron with that gym-familiar metal handle and crash-safe rubberised body. As far as kettlebells go, you can’t get more safely practical and inoffensive in design than this: one for the gym purists just wanting to optimise their conditioning and resistance training. From £28.99. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Value for money | Durable vinyl coating Cons: Colours won't appeal to everyone
Opti's vinyl kettlebell range might look basic and lack premium materials, but your muscles won't care one bit. Simple, brightly coloured and effective, these plastic kettlebells are a no-nonsense way to kick off your kettlebell journey without bleeding your wallet dry in the process. From £3. At argos.co.uk
Pros: Beautiful design | Comfortable hand grip Cons: No heavier weights | Expensive
WaterRower may have started as the home of water-resistance rowing machines, but it’s become a haven for extraordinarily beautiful gym equipment under the title of NohrD. Take this set of kettlebells, which come nestled on a wooden stand of ash, oak, cherry or walnut. The weights themselves come in pairs of two, four, six and eight kilograms, are made with wooden handles, and have hand-stitched leather bodies filled with iron pellets. With the same resistance benefits of your standard iron or rubberised examples, these are the ideal choice for the style-oriented amongst you. £589. At bestgymequipment.co.uk & waterrower.co.uk
Pros: Affordable | Generous weight range Cons: Limited weight range
As with much in life, Amazon provides a completely functional, great value iteration of the kettlebell, currently available in a weight range from 4kg to 20kg. Made from quality cast iron and with a wide, textured handle for a secure, comfortable grip during those most drawn-out sets, a full set of six for a reasonable sticker price means you can keep the home workout spirit alive for many months to come. From £13.81. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Cool design | Extra challenging Cons: Non-adjustable | Non-traditional shape
While this Tribe WOD war hammer stretches the parameters of what can comfortably be called a “Kettlebell”, it’s certainly targeting the same muscle groups and setting the same hurdles as one. Coming in a badass war hammer design, this Tribe choice is actually more challenging than your standard loop handle kettlebell. You’ll have to amp up your grip to hang onto this weighty accessory, meaning that your Romanian deadlifts and overhead presses will be even more difficult than usual. Cast iron and powder coated, this is a long-lasting gym accessory for the man seeking to level up their kettlebell routine to Thor-like proportions. From £69.52. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: App-connected performance tracking | Easily adjustable Cons: Pricier than most rivals
The Jaxjox Kettlebell Connect 2.0 offers a smarter approach to kettlebell training, putting six different weights into one bell. Place it inside the charging base and tap a button to add or detach weight cylinders covering 5.5kg to 19kg. When paired with the companion smartphone app, you can keep track of reps and sets and receive a Fitness IQ score to help monitor progress. £200. At decathlon.co.uk
Pros: Colourful, eye-catching design | Plenty of weight ranges on offer Cons: Design won't suit all tastes
Neoprene-covered weight-training equipment always gets top marks in our book, thanks to the material's protective and grippy quality. This triple set serves up three different-quality kettlebells in a range of weights (12kg, 14kg and 16kg), making them a versatile set for different weightlifting levels. With ergonomic handles covered in a powder coating, they're ideal for all grip strengths too. £269. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Soft on feet and floors Cons: Not the heaviest | Non-adjustable
What do you have when you find a kettlebell that is neither cast iron nor rubberised? Proiron’s soft series of sand-filled weights is one option. These yellow material swingable kettlebells will save your feet and wooden floors from painful breakages and are easy to move when you do. A fabulous option for those seeking lighter, less serious and less potentially calamitous workouts. From £21.99. At proiron.com
Pros: Adjustable | 12-month JRNY fitness app membership included Cons: Expensive
Resembling a giant padlock, the Bowflex SelectTech all-in-one adjustable kettlebell conveniently lets you dial in six different weights ranging from 3.5-18kg, saving you from dominating your entire room with a pile of different-sized weights. Beyond its compact design, the flexibility it offers means you can also bump up the weight as you get stronger, without having to fork out more money in future. A top contender for one of the best adjustable kettlebells around. £228.99. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Comfortable grip | Fabric cover prevents scratches Cons: Limited weight range
Though cast iron or steel are the conventional kettlebell materials, RDX has constructed this one from high-quality, water-resistant Cordura, which encases a mix of sand and iron to make up the weight. If that sounds a little more flimsy than you had in mind, think again. Thanks to tight needle-work, it'll keep its shape for many a squat, snatch and swing. From £21.99. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Durable rubber coating | Slick, minimal design Cons: Pricier than some rivals
TRX's durable rubber-coated set will protect your floors from dents and scratches, while a clever colour-coded band design lets you easily pick out your ideal weight from the flock. Unlike other coloured kettlebells which can sear your retinas, this approach is more subtle, and one that many will prefer. They're a little more expensive than some more basic cast iron equivalents, but you can't argue against the design and build quality on offer here. From £59.95. At trxtraining.eu
Pros: Adjustable | Relatively affordable considering it's adjustable Cons: You might not need all the weight ranges it offers
Isogym’s entry into the convenient adjustable kettlebell category features a rather attractive round design, with a large handle for a comfortable grip. It offers seven different weight selections ranging from 3-18kg, making it ideal for progressive overload workouts, with a quick and safe adjustment mechanism for hassle-free switching. £99.99. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Colourful design | Large, stable base Cons: Pricey
This steel collection of kettlebells are all the same size and colour coded like all competition bells, making it easier to pick out the right weights at speed. There’s a smooth handle to get hold of and the uniform look and large base make them a better fit for floor-based exercises. Depending on how serious you are about your kettlebell training, you can go as light as 8kg or heavy-duty as 40kg. From £47.99. At fitkituk.com
Pros: Large handles | Vinyl-covered Cons: Individually pricey
Spri's vinyl kettlebells and dumbbells are about as interior-friendly as home fitness kit gets. Not only do they look the part in a range of palatable colours, but the durable vinyl will protect floors from damage should you be so burned out after your final swing you simply can't face gently lowering it to the ground. From £24.99. At johnlewis.com
Pros: Colourful, eye-catching design | Plenty of weight ranges on offer Cons: Design won't suit all tastes
This set of solid cast-iron neoprene-coated kettlebells are designed to help protect your floors from scratches and scuffs. Their large handles provide a decent distance between your hands and the bell weight itself too, making for a more comfortable experience during manoeuvres like kettlebell swings. With kettlebell weight options available from 4-24kg in various colours, they offer up plenty of bang for your strength-training buck. From £21.99. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Reasonably priced | Decent selection of weights Cons: Not many at this price
JTX’s range of kettlebells feature a comfortable, anti-slip grip for a solid hold, as well as a rubber-coated base to protect your floor from any unsightly marks or scratches. As they’re colour-coded according to their different weights, you can mix and match the right ones for your workout needs, with a one-year warranty thrown in for good measure (though it won’t cover the damage of any walls you accidentally fling them into…) From £24. jtxfitness.com
Pros: Incredibly well-made | Weight distributed closer to handle for easier swinging Cons: Extremely expensive
Aimed at serious lifters, this range meets size and weight regulations up to competition standards, while an even weight distribution, extra-tough powdered coating and engraved weight indicators mean it'll last you forever too. The flat bottom allows it to be used for other exercises, such as push-ups, while a hollow core design places less stress on the wrists. From £94.80. At bestgymequipment.co.uk
Pros: Innovative design | Unlocks more exercise options Cons: A regular kettlebell may be enough for your needs
Doublebells are a cylindrical evolution of the classic kettlebell, with a shape and handles designed for you to press, row, extend and rotate freely. They’re touted as a great tool for circuit-style conditioning flows, loaded HIIT sessions, boot camps and group exercise classes and are colour coded for easy weight differentiation. From £74.99. At bestgymequipment.co.uk
Pros: Turns existing dumbbells into kettlebells | Cheaper than buying new kettlebells Cons: Final form factor may not be as comfortable as an actual kettlebell
If you're happy enough with your existing collection of dumbbells but still partial to the odd change of motion a kettlebell requires, this nifty little invention will come in very handy. It'll turn most dumbbells that weighs less than 25kg into a kettlebell in an instant, making it infinitely easier to swing or deadlift. Weighing barely anything itself, it travels well, too. £23.69. At amazon.co.uk
Pros: Beautiful, premium build | Huge weight range Cons: A regular kettlebell may be enough for your needs
A brand known for its cutting-edge exercise equipment, Technogym knows how to make good-looking kettlebells, too. There’s a stainless steel handle to give you something nice to grip for those swings and a black rubber body to protect your floor from kettle carnage. The engraved numbers out in front help to elevate the look of individual or family sets to bring that boutique gym feel home. From £60. At technogym.com
Pros: Bold design | Decent range of weights Cons: More expensive than plain alternatives
These cast iron kettlebells with character offer a nice wide handle to accommodate most exercises and a flat base that makes them easier to store when not being put to use. Available in 8kg at the lightest and 24kg at the heaviest, the skull-shaped look also means they’ll stand out from the rest of the standard iron and metal that makes up your home gym setup. From £21.99. At powerhouse-fitness.co.uk
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