Often after introducing kettlebells to someone I will hear the following questions.
Where can I buy one of those? How much do they cost?
In my opinion there is a strong benefit to using competition kettlebells over Bodysport or store kettlebells. The consistency in size and shape makes the transition to higher weights smoother and easier, and allows the athlete to carry their technique through as their skill progresses.
Notice the difference of the circumference between the store bell 15 lbs. (left) and the competition bell18 lbs. (right).
Notice how the bells of different weights for the store bought bells are different in circumference and handle size(left).
With the competition bells the dimensions remain the same when the weight is doubled (right).
With the bell on the left there is a flat spot where the 35 lbs is stamped. This creates a corner which drives into the wrist while in the rack position. The competition bell was built for comfort in the rack.
I am guilty. I have bought a few of the Go-Fit kettlebells at the local sporting goods store. I am human and have the desire for instant gratification. I am also a bit cheap at times. But when it comes to kettlebells I have learned that there is a reason why I pay more and use competition kettlebells. Competition bells were designed by experienced Russian competitors for comfort and consistency. Often times people see a competition bell and say 'Wow! How much does that weigh?' When I say only 12kg, I get the deer in the headlights look. Ok I used to be bad at kg to lb conversion too. Usually I go on to explain that the bells are all the same size regardless of weight and how form remains constant. I continue to explain they are more comfortable, but that seems to never get through verbally. I have found the best verbal description to be that there is less air for the bell to move through before striking your arm. I know, I know, good form and technique prevent that in the first place.
With the bells at the local sporting goods store there is often a nice flat spot right where it would rest on your wrist. A corner of steel to rest on??!! The sporting good store bells have a vinyl coating which does nothing except remove arm hair. Unless you are a metro-sexual, this is not advantageous. As one progresses into higher repetitions and longer timed sets, comfort in the rack (rest position) is important. As kettlebells continue to grow in popularity the prices at the local store seem to rise to be close to the same rate as a competition kettlebell would cost with shipping. A kettlebell will last a life time, and being comfortable using it for a life time is important. Invest wisely and kettle daily with quality and comfort.
Is everyone who touches a kettlebell going to compete? Hopefully, but not realistically. Will the great majority of people who realize the numerous benefits of kettlebell training on their level of fitness use more than one weight? Yes. When using competition bells everything remains the same compared to relearning technique as the weight changes with the other "store" style.
Those who have mastered the kettlebell know the advantage of using competition bells in their training. Those who call themselves masters while trying to copy kettleworx are clueless.
There are 3 main sources for competition kettlebells and thanks to the free market prices are reasonable.
http://www.ikff.net/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=4&vmcchk=1&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=6
http://store.worldkettlebellclub.com/categories/Kettlebells/
http://www.performbetter.com/detail.aspx?ID=5565
Dont be fooled by some chick in hot pants. She does not come with the bells.
