Kettlebells Versus Dumbells!

I have had many years of experience with all forms of training. As you may know by now I am a huge proponent of the kettlebells. Kettlebells are a wonderful strength training device that can be used for multiple purposes within the context of an exercise strength and fitness program. A common theme that I find myself addressing when it comes to kettlebell training is that people think that much of the same movements can be achieved with the use of dumbells and this is simply not true.

To start, I am not bashing dumbells in this article. Dumbells are an essential component in designing an effective strength and conditioning program. The truth is that some of the same movements can be mimicked with dumbells like you would do with kettlebells, but the fact remains that they are vastly different.

For starters, the uniqueness of the kettlebell lies within it's design. The handle is extended away from the majority of the weighted portion of the bell giving it a sense of awkwardness. Because of this design you will find that the kettlebell is always pulling away from your center of gravity. This causes you to constantly have to counter-react the "pulling away" sensation, therefore you get stronger without even realizing it. The dumbell does not offer this unique quality. It simply rests close to the palm of your hand and there is no real counter-reaction along with the act of stability. Its really just about stabilizing the dumbell.

Now having said this you can really multiply this awkwardness and instability factor with the kettlebell by incorporating it in dynamic movements such as swings, overhead snatches, and turkish get-ups. It will certainly utilize gravity to OPTIMALLY tension and develop your body unlike anything you have tried before. The dumbell is good to use for similar lifts, but once again you don't get the benefit of the "pulling away" factor like you do with kettlebells. Now you may enjoy doing traditional presses with dumbells more so than kettlebells, but the fact is that you can also do these lifts with kettlebells as well. All I am trying to say is that the kettlebell is simply a tool in the toolbox of fitness. Now knowing this I would say that it is the most valuable and versatile piece of equipment in the toolbox!

To learn more about Kettlebells, Fitness, and achieving Total Mind-Blowing Strength come and visit me at http://www.efandps.com To be one of my members and to receive more tips on INSANE BODY CONSTRUCTION please visit me at:http://www.efandps.com/www.efandps.com/Brandons_Members_Newsletter.html I'm Brandon Richey the Strength and Conditioning Pro!

Recording Your Progress - 2 Methods to Help Keep You Motivated in Your Quest For the Perfect Body!

Do you always find yourself struggling to remember what you did your last workout session or what you had planned to do for your current training session? If so then you need to take the time to start documenting your workouts and tracking your progress. There are actually a couple of interesting ways to do this. I have included 2 methods in the following article.

1. The Journal: Now this may sound like the most common, but when I say journal I don't solely mean the old fashioned little booklet that you can carry around in your back pocket to and from the gym. This is ok to use, but I am referencing a somewhat more modern style of journal. In today's crazy world of busy moms and dads chasing the almighty dollar and juggling a handful of kids around there seems to always be a since of urgency. Often times this urgency can breed a state of "forgetfulness." People, whether they like it or not, need to be reminded of certain things. This is where your awesome PC, laptop, or business computer can come in handy. Set up a journal of your workouts with your strength and fitness regimen on the calendar. Use the calendar to set yourself up email alerts on a regular basis reminding you of the particular exercises and drills you need to accomplish from week to week. You see by doing this on a calendar you are not only logging your past workouts, but are pushing yourself to progress to all of the future workouts. Plus you won't forget your workouts or lose track of them during times of urgency!

2. The Video: Now this is another great method to utilize in this modern era of technology. If you want to really get motivated then video a particular workout that you feel you are good at. Yes, I said a workout that you feel you are good at. You may be surprised at how far behind you really are, or you may be enthused about how far ahead you look! Either way you are getting major feedback on your strength and fitness training program. You can also use this tool to critique your form and technique on more advanced lifts. This is a great way to keep you motivated and to log a concrete visual measure of your ability!

To learn more about Kettlebells, Fitness, and achieving Total Mind-Blowing Strength come and visit me at http://www.efandps.com To be one of my members and to receive more tips on INSANE BODY CONSTRUCTION please visit me at:http://www.efandps.com/www.efandps.com/Brandons_Members_Newsletter.html I'm Brandon Richey the Strength and Conditioning Pro!