Bristol Kettlebell club member profile – Glynis Moss
When did you get into kettlebell training?
I signed up for a 4 week kettlebell bootcamp in October 2011. The bootcamp was aimed at beginner level to improve stamina, core strength and learn basic kettlebell techniques. The course had been recommended to me by a work colleague and I was impressed with the case studies on the Bristol Kettlebell website.
What attracted you to kettlebell training?
I had been running for 4 years, including entering a number of 10k races. I had hit a wall as I could not improve my time nor distance. I decided to take a rest from running and concentrate on losing weight and building core strength. Kettlebells offered me a physical and mental challenge. I had become ‘camera shy’ and knew this was down to my overall shape.
Some say it’s really tough, is it?
If you are competitive and have a willingness to push outside of your comfort zone than yes it is tough. However this brings a great feeling of personal achievement. Results can be significant, if you attend regularly and take on board other lifestyle changes recommended by Pete. He is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about nutrition and healthy living.
What other types of fitness have/do you enjoy?
In the past I have been a member of a running club and I currently take part in family circuits. My kettlebell training has greatly improved my cardiovascular ability at circuits. By strengthening my arms I can now do chair dips for a minute. Previously I had struggled with 20 seconds.
There is a lot of hype surrounding kettlebell training, what kind of results have you seen?
Within 6 weeks of starting kettlebells I noticed some subtle changes. My face was slimmer and I moved my belt in a notch. This motivated me to work even harder. I was enjoying the classes so much and wanted to work on my technique so I took up one-to-one sessions with Pete (which I still do to date). After moving my belt in 3 notches I decided to ditch the jeans dropping from sizes 10 to 8. I also changed to wearing tighter fitting clothes at work such as shift dresses. I now feel more feminine.
I am younger, healthier and more confident than ever. For me, kettlebell training is not just a fitness activity; it is a way of living. To top it all I have made some brilliant, genuine and inspiring friends at the club.
What size kettlebells do you work with?
At bootcamp I learnt to swing with a 10kg bell and now I can swing a 20kg. In March’s snatch test I used a 10kg and was top of the leader board in this category.
What are your future goals within kettlebell training?
In the short term I am hoping to move up a bell for all my exercises. Long term I am looking to lift a deadlift of 100kg for several repetitions. Currently I have achieved 70kg (greater than my own body weight).
I recently took part in the Strong man/ woman competition. A few months back I would have laughed at the idea. I am really proud to share that I exceeded my expectations in all 6 events. I am now working to improve my scores for the event in September.
I really admire Davina McColl so I am working to get a body like hers.
About Pete?
Pete is so much more than a kettlebell instructor/ personal trainer. He is a health and lifestyle specialist. Thanks for you continuous effort and patience. I wish you luck with the growth and success of your business.
Words from Pete – Glynis has a ton of grit, determination and perseverance, because of this she has taken her strength and conditioning far beyond what she ever imagined. Through consistently focusing on her training she has more than tripled her deadlift weight in as little as 3 months, that is a testament to the kettlebell swings effect on the posterior chain but also Glynis’s determination for results. Glynis is not the most co-ordinated person and struggled initially with some of the movements, however she is shaping up to be a force to reckon with, and in the strongman/woman contest, and our fitness testing sessions. I am extremely proud of how far she has come and know that with her iron will to succeed she will reach her goals. Well done Glynis!!
If you would like to get involved with the club click here and get signed up to the intro lesson.
