Kettlebells a weight workout?

[eminenz2]

I'm not sure how to 'classify' my KB workouts. If I do KBs today, should I not do weight lifting tomorrow? What about abs? Can they be done the day after KBs?

I only have one DVD - the AOS KB clinic. I've been working on the Elevation (3-4 times through with 20 second rests) workout right now, but I hope to incorporate the Pinnacle II in a few days.

I think I'm going to name my KB 'Goldilocks' because it is too light for some work, too heavy for others and just right for some exercises. Are you finding the same thing happening in your KB workouts?

Thanks in advance for your comments!

 

[kathryn]

I think of KB as a 'total package' workout: resistance, cardio and flexibility. But different types of workouts can focus on different aspects of fitness.

For example, if you do a lot of swings one day, I'd say it's fine to do weight work the following day.

If you do a workout with overhead presses and lots of upper body work, I wouldn't do an upper-body weight workout the day after. Same with the intense lower body (squats, lunges, etc.)

Abs and core are worked with almost every KB move, but since abs can take more high-volume work (because of the type of muscle they are), you could do an ab workout the day following kettlebells if you want (if it's not a good idea, your body will tell you once you start the ab work!).


Love your 'Goldilocks' analogy!
I definitely find that one KB can be a 'Goldlocks,' especially when one starts training (no WAY I could do a Turkish Get-Up with the weight that soon became too light for swings). As you progress, you might find that the weight seems 'about right' for most exercises.

IMO, it also depends a lot on the choice of exercises as well.

 

[fit44]

Thanks for posting this question!

A big thank you to Kathryn for the clear explanation!!! That makes perfect sense and helps me a lot

 

[kathryn]

A big thank you to Kathryn for the clear explanation!!! That makes perfect sense and helps me a lot

Glad I could help!