4 Kettlebell Mistakes to Avoid Injuries

4 Kettlebell Mistakes People Make

Kettlebells are a versatile exercise tool. They can be used for both cardio and to build muscle, so it is no wonder that they are a very popular exercise tool. However, many people are using them without learnig how to do so properly. Are you making any of these 4 kettlebell mistakes, too?

Not realizing that kettlebells are meant to work out the lower body

Kettlebell swings are one of the main exercises that people do when they use kettlebells. A lot of people, however, make the mistake of not realizing that kettlebell swings are meant to exercise the lower body. When you do a kettlebell swing, you should be primarily focusing on working out your lower body. When doing the actual swing, your lower body should be doing the vast majority of the work. You should use your arms should be used to keep the kettlebell steady and centered, but the actual swinging should be done entirely with your hips.

Swinging a kettlebell too high

This mistake is closely related to the previous one. A lot of people make the mistake of swinging the kettlebell too high when they do a kettlebell swing. Some even go as far as swinging it up near their head. This is a big mistake since swinging the kettlebell too high puts unnecessary amounts of stress on your upper body, specifically your shoulders and your spine. So, remember, when doing kettlebell swings, try and keep the kettlebell lower, not higher. Let the momentum of your hips raise the kettlebell, do not add unnecessary force to the swing.

Breathing wrong while using the kettlebell

Breathing is a crucial part of doing kettlebell exercises right. If you want to do kettlebell exercises properly, then you need to develop proper breathing technique. A lot of people fail to do this and it holds them back. The proper way to breathe when doing kettlebell exercises is to take a deep breath while lowering the kettlebell then exhale while swinging the kettlebell.

Lifting the kettlebell from a squat position

A lot of people make the mistakes of lifting a kettlebell from a squatting position. They bend their knees too much instead of bending their hips. Your knees are not the focus nor should they be. The focus is on your lower body. So, make sure that instead of bending your knees, that you are bending your hips instead.