Review of Kettlebell Sport & Fitness Magazine

I was excited to see that there now is a dedicated magazine to the benefits of Kettlebell training, whether for sport of just strength and conditioning.

The major word for the magazine after pulling it out of my mailbox – disappointment.

First – the picture on the cover is of a very fit model doing a Kettlebell high pull – obviously light enough to hold in that position long enough to snap the photo. This defeats the very purpose of Kettlebell training. These are dynamic, they are awkward to hold – that’s the point – the body has to work even in the rack position. The Kettlebell high pull is an adapted exercise from barbell training that really is not unique to kettlebells and realistically is a subpar exercise selection for kettlebells and one could even say, in general.

Secondly – the articles varied too much. Many were right on focus with Kettlebell sport or training emphasis. Within the realm of “Kettlebell Sport and Fitness Magazine” scope, the reader expects content packed full of training advice, interviews, athlete highlights, history or stories concerning Kettlebells, or other related information. And the magazine dated winter 2011, did have articles outlining an older Kettlebell sport athlete, 2 IKFF business owners in Italy, and an article outlining how to find a good Kettlebell coach. However, the Charles Staley article (although I am a huge Staley fan) seemed to be misplaced although well written. The bikini model 3 page article was completely misplaced showing pictures of the competitor doing steps ups and shoulder presses with 8lb dumbbells.

Thirdly – the magazine is not a promotion for any of the Kettlebell certifications. I understand that it operates independently of all the major companies that offer Kettlebell instruction. I also understand that the ads in the magazine will determine much of the direction of the articles. That being said, I was disappointed to not see a representation from many of the certification covers. I saw IKFF in spades, but did not see anything from other certifications. The RKC is the largest in the world. Kettlebell Concepts, Maxbells, PunchGym with Anthony D, crossfit, and WKC all deserve contribution.

I have a year’s subscription to this magazine, and look forward to improvement. I am pleased that the magazine has made efforts in Kettlebell awareness. I do however believe that most subscribers will be more than familiar with Kettlebell basics and that the direction should take an advanced stand on education and awareness.

Brian Wright MS, CSCS, RKC, CPT

www.bw-pt.com