The 8 Best Kettlebell Core and Abs Exercises
Most people don’t consider the kettlebell as a tool when thinking of ways to train the core, but it can be one of the most effective tools for developing a strong and robust core musculature. The diversity it offers in terms of carries and static holds makes it a must have in your core and abs training regime. That’s why we created this list of the 8 best kettlebell core variations you can add into your future workouts.
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- Benefits Of Kettlebell Exercises For The Core
- 1. Increased Resistance —> Increased Adaptation
- 2. Limited Equipment Required For Results
- 3. Adds Variety
- Sample Kettlebell Abs Workout
- How To Use Kettlebells To Train The Core
- 1. Use Progressive Overload
- 2. Add Into Kettlebell Strength Training
- 3. Integrate with A TRX
Benefits Of Kettlebell Exercises For The Core
1. Increased Resistance —> Increased Adaptation
By increased the load on a movement, it creates a larger stimulus, therefore creating more of an adaptation. One thing you must ensure is that you’r ready for the increased stimulus, this can be done by using weights you initially feel very comfortable with and make the exercises more challenging overtime.
2. Limited Equipment Required For Results
The beauty of kettlebells is you only need one or two to create an effective workout routine. Having just a few extra bits of equipment can dramatically help in adding different types of stimulus to your exercises programme.
3. Adds Variety
As bodyweight training can get a little boring, adding a kettlebell into the mix is a great way to make training that little bit more fun and interesting, so not only will it help create better results, it will also help with consistency as training will be more fun and enjoyable.
Sample Kettlebell Abs Workout
Complete 3 rounds
1. KB Deadbug Hold
2. Half Kneeling KB Cross Chops
3. Tall Plank with KB Pass Through
How To Use Kettlebells To Train The Core
1. Use Progressive Overload
Start with light weight and easier exercises and progress them over time. This is known as the principle of progressive overload where difficulty is added to a movement overtime to increase the stimulus and therefore increase the adaptation.
2. Add Into Kettlebell Strength Training
These kettlebell core variations can easily be added into your strength training regime. This can be an efficient way to train your entire body including the core in one session. These full body kettlebell strength training sessions can create excellent result, including for the core.
3. Integrate with A TRX
Using a kettlebell and a TRX can be a great way to add a large variety of core exercises into your training. This can easily be done at home and to great effect.
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This resource was written by Sean Klein. Sean Richard Klein has thousands of hours of coaching experience and a BSc in Sports Science with Management from Loughborough University. He owns a gym in Bayonne France, CrossFit Essor, which runs group classes and a Personal training studio.
Sean Klein
