The kettlebell is a traditional Russian cast iron
weight, looking somewhat like a cannonball with a handle.
Kettlebell workouts are intended to increase strength, endurance,
agility and balance, challenging both the muscular and cardiovascular
system with dynamic, total-body movements.
Since ancient times in Russia, Russian people have valued physical
strength. Historically, it was an honor to be known as The Strongest
Man.
The strength contests constantly were held in all villages and
towns. The Strongest Men were referred to as Bogatir which means
extremely strong and honorable man. Bogatirs also were honored for
their goodness. They used their super strength for good and against
evil.
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During that period of
time, kettlebells were not considered to be a real sport. It was more a
form of entertainment. During city festivities, Russian men would show
off their abilities with kettlebells. Kettlebells were used to compare
strength, endurance, and coordination among competitors. Kettlebell
contests were a frequent part of the social gatherings of the villages.
 After World War II, weight lifting became popular in
Russia and other
countries. European people became very interested in Olympic weight
lifting.
People were motivated by the idea of winning, getting titles,
and becoming Masters of their Sports. Nothing like that was offered in
the sport of kettlebells; however, kettlebells were still used by
farmers, fishermen, military and navy soldiers, who adapted their love
of competition into kettlebell contests. The contests were mainly
unofficial, though. There were no rules or regulations. It was just
plain simple. The man who lifted the heaviest kettlebell more times
than the others was the winner.
In the 1960s, more and more contests were held
in schools and universities. The rules,
regulations, and general policies were different
from one place to another, and there was no unity
in the organization or judging of the contests.
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 There were
recordings of the best results, but no official way to determine the
Master of Sport title. In the 70s, kettlebells became part of the
United All State Sport Association of USSR, but there were still no
official rules, norms, or standards. In 1985, a Committee of Kettlebell
Sport was organized.
Finally, national rules, regulations, and weight
categories were set up. In November of 1985 the First National
Championship of USSR was held in Lipetsk, Russia.
Fifteen years
later, in 2000, Kettlebells were finally introduced for the first time
in America. Kettlebell lifting is growing in this country. In 2002
Kettlebells were called the "Hot Weight of the Year" by Rolling Stone.
More and more people finding out about kettlebells and are impressed
with the results they get.
To experience it
yourself, contact Kombat Kettlebells today and discover the body you
could and should have!
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