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Not exactly,Lacee Lazoff, NYC-based certified personal trainer, tells SELF.
Amber Venerable
Before receiving her certification, Lazoff says she used kettlebells casually, but didnt know what I was doing.
Wanting more guidance on proper form and safety techniques, she took an eight-hour workshop that covered the basics.
From there, her initial interest grew into a niche passion.
For that reason, you have to train, Lazoff says of the prep required for this test.
You cant just show up.
Judges evaluate applicants on both their form and their breathing patterns.
Failing on any one skill will result in an overall fail.
About 30 percent of people dont pass, says Marker.
“We have pretty strict requirements.”
If you know how to do [the swing] correctly, the benefits are great, Lazoff says.
(More on those benefits below.)
Thats why this training tool serves as a stellar form of functional fitness.
Overall, the strengthening benefits of kettlebell work are legit.
They also work and stretch the hip flexors.
And lastly, theres sneaky core work at play.
Doing functional movements while carrying a kettlebell improves your core strength very quickly, says Lazoff.
Lazoff says becoming a kettlebell specialist has influenced how she trains her clients and her future goals.
Most of my clients are touching kettlebells all the time, she says.
My dream is to one day focus exclusively on kettlebell and functional bodyweight movements.
Kettlebell swings, for example, are considered ballistic cardio, explains Lazoff.
Youre quickly thrusting the weight up and down, which can rapidly get your heart rate high.
Many people associate kettlebells with powerlifting and/or CrossFit, says Lazoff.
Its treated like a little accessory.
With the rise of kettlebell certification courses and the increasing number of specialists, those misbeliefs may soon shift.
You dont have to run, jump, or otherwise stress your joints, she says.
Anyone can do it, and [the skillset] will last you a lifetime."
Another perk: Unlike bulky cardio and weight-lifting machines, kettlebells take up minimal space.
I have two sets of bells in my studio apartment, says Lazoff.
Its cool you’re free to use them with very limited space.
