Bristol Kettlebell club member profile – John Evans
When did you get into kettlebell training?
I started Kettlebell training on feb 20th so have been doing it for 9 weeks now.
What attracted you to kettlebell training?
I had heard that the results are quite dramatic and that it is one of the most effective forms of exercise. I liked that it was a class and not at a gym and that it was varied so I wouldn’t get bored.
Yes. I think it is as tough as you want it to be. There is a technical element to all the moves so you need to learn that, but I found it quite quick to pick it up and then it’s up to you as to how honest and tough on yourself you want to be. You can move through the weights quickly and push yourself in each session. I certainly feel that it has been a tough workout at the end of each class.
What other types of fitness have/do you enjoy?
I never really went to the gym much and didn’t like all the posers in there when I did go. That said when I did go it was mainly cardio and i used to like using the cross trainer. I have recently started running as well as doing the kettle bell classes and whilst I wouldn’t say I enjoy going running as such, I think it is good to have the mix of cardio training and the kettle bell.
There is a lot of hype surrounding kettlebell training, what kind of results have you seen?
In the 9 weeks since I started I have lost 10lb, almost 4 inches from my waist and also toned up on my chest, shoulders and arms particularly. I am just looking forward to seeing how much of a difference it will make when I have been doing it for 6 months. I am really happy with the results so far and want to see how far I can push myself.
What size kettlebells do you work with?
When I started I was working with 12kg kettlebells to learn the techniques for the different exercises. I now use a 20kg Kettlebell for most of them, 24kg for two handed swing and squats, 14 kg for snatch and windmills as I have only recently learned them and am still concentrating on technique.
What are your future goals within kettlebell training?
I want to move up the weights with the snatch and windmill as well as continue pushing myself in the classes. As well as using the kettle bells we also do body weight exercises and I want to see a continued improvement in this. I want to continue to lose weight and tone up and I know that I can get the results I want in the kettle bell classes.
Word from Pete – John has good natural strength and has progressed up to heavier kettlebells quite quickly, this is fine because his technique is good. Using heavier bells means that he is burning way more calories and so with a couple of simple dietary tweaks that I suggested he has seen some excellent body composition changes. Its very early days for John with only 2 months or so of training under his belt. He has yet to experience the benefits of snatching and windmills. When he gets good at these two exercises his results are going to go skyward’s!! I am looking forward to coaching John further in these lifts, I think he has great potential in the upcoming fitness tests and strongman contest when it rolls around in September. Well done John!
If you would like to get involved with the club click here and get signed up to the next intro class.
