Kettlebells vs. dumbbells

[Elastigirl]

I have a little extra money to spend on exercise stuff. I'm trying to decide bettween kettlebells or dumbells. There are some really cool workouts with kettlebells and they may energize me because its just something differant. But dumbells are cheaper. So, if you only had a set amount to spend and may not be able to buy more for another 6 months what would you buy?

The kettlebell set I'm looking at is 10 lb, 20lb, and 25 lb. I really think I need a set. Seems like for different exercises you would want differant weights. Plus, you need to move up more weight as you progress, right?

If you go dumbbells do you do a set of two of the same weights or differant weights for those too?

I'm hoping to buy the Rebel Strength Guide for Women, does that Rebel Strength guide use dumbells? Maybe I should get dumbbells if I need them for that guide.

[Sloth the Enduring]

I'd get the kettlebells 'cause they're awesome. If you get dumbbells get the adjustable kind.

Kettlebells are nice because they are a really good conditioning (and fat burning) tool. Dumbbells are more adjustable allowing a better progression and free weights are more efficient at building strength. I haven't read the strength guide, but I think they have a dumbbell workout, but not a KB workout.

[Corbab]

I would also go with the kettlebells for the sheer awesomeness. Sloth-like said it perfectly with the differences -- what are your goals? If you just want to get "fitter," the kettlebell is a great way to get there, but if you want to follow a specific plan or start lifting, the dumbells are the way to go.

[thescrawnycaveman]

Like sloth said,if you get dumbbells, get the adjustable ones

[RaeVynn]

I love my kettlebells. I really do.

I got a set that is 5, 10, 15, and 20lb. After the first week, the 5lb is gathering dust. The 10lb is starting to get dusty now, too... I use the 15lb a lot, and I can see using the 20lb one really soon. I'm already starting to price heavier ones.

[cianalas]

I'm a fan of kettlebells. While they are more expensive, you can do a lot more with them. Most dumbbell exercises you can do can be done with kettlebells, and because the weight is off center, it engages the stabilizing muscles more. Plus swinging weights around is just fun.

To offset the cost a little, you can progress past the weights you have by grabbing two kettlebells in one hand. Works the grip muscles really well too.

[tigersheart]

I personally would go with the kettlebells because I believe you get more out of them than you ever could from regular dumbells.

But that is just a personal opinion

[don-don]

Kettlebells all the way! I find them much easier to handle than dumbells.

I wouldn't waste money on some of the really lighter ones (unless you have a medical reason for needing light ones) I started with an 8KG bell and it was HEAVY at first but I can manage it now on everything except Turkish get ups...its still a little heavy for my left arm at the moment but I'm sure I'll get there. Maybe you can get a 5KG bell for some of the arm exercises like the one I mentioned.

[Elastigirl]

Hmm.. sounds like most votes go for kettlebells. Think I'll buy me some kettlebells for the next challenge. Squee, I can hardly wait to start!

[scuddle]

Just to add: Here's a great article about the benefits of the kettlebell!

[Nocturnis]

Kettlebells FTW!!!! I have a 5lbs,10lbs,15lbs that I got because they were on sale and two 35lbs that were made from molten metal not the machine made ones. The 35 pair cost over $200 but were well worth it.