Comparing adjustable kettlebells vs standard kettlebell brings forth a debate of what choice to make when buying a kettlebell. It’s worth noting that kettlebells whether adjustable or standard kettlebells are not equal! Let me first start by illustrating the difference between adjustable kettlebells and the standard kettlebell. When kettlebells were invented some years back somewhere in Russia, they were only standard kettlebells. These were weights that resembled a kettle with a handle. They were initially used in army routine training before they were reinvented for strength training.
What is a Standard Kettlebell?
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Standard kettlebell is one that has a fixed weight and can vary depending on the size. The best example of a standard kettlebell is CAP Barbell CAST Iron Kettlebell that has a weight range of 15 pounds to 80 pounds. When you want to buy this standard kettlebell you have to make a choice on the kettlebell size you would like to purchase.
The price range of most standard kettlebells is approximately 20 dollars to 200 dollars spread across for each weight category. This means if you want to buy a standard kettlebell, and have progressive weight training, you will require buying one or two or a set of standard kettlebells.
This may come at an advantage especially when you are on a shoe strings budget but as you will find out adjustable kettlebells is a better choice for progressive kettlebell trainers.
What is an Adjustable Kettlebell?
Adjustable kettlebells are kettlebells that have an advanced design allowing you to add weight in order to scale your training needs. You can adjust the weight of adjustable kettlebells depending on the design of each of these kettlebell. Adjustable kettlebells come in all shapes, design and sizes but most of them range from 5 pounds to 40 pounds in weight. This weight is designed in plates that you can easily add and lock. The best example of an adjustable kettlebell is the 36 Pound Stamina Adjustable Kettlebell.
Adjustable kettlebells is designed to allow you to add weight in different ways. Cross Bell adjustable kettlebell allows you to use water, sand and gravel to increase the weight.
The design of how each adjustable kettlebell looks and works is different from one kettlebell to another. To just cite an example Rocketlok 24-36 Adjustable Kettlebell is designed with cylindrical weights that fit in and firmly inside.
Another popular adjustable kettlebell called Mir Pro 83 pounds is designed with weight plates that lock firm and tightly.
Comparison of Standard Kettlebell vs Adjustable Kettlebells
There are striking differences between standard kettlebells and adjustable kettlebell here are some of these differences
| Standard Kettlebells | Adjustable Kettlebells |
| Consist of only one weight like 5lb | Have a weight range like 5lb – 40lb |
| Buying several kettlebell will be expensive | You can buy all weights at an affordable price |
| Good for starters since you can buy low weigh kettlebell cheaply | Fit for intermediate trainers or beginners who are determined to be in progressive kettlebell training |
| Easy to handle since there is no adding or removing weight | Somewhat cumbersome since you have to keep adding weight and removing |
| Occupy a large space and might require you to have a kettlebell rack | Occupy small space and are ideal for progressive kettlebell trainees who live in a limited space environment |
| Do not produce some noise during exercises | Some adjustable kettlebells produce a noise during training |
| They are safe for training even for extreme exercises | They need to have the weight safely secure to be safe but all are designed with a weight safety mechanism |
| They are many brands to choose from for the standard kettlebells | The adjustable kettlebells are somewhat limited since they are not as many in the market |
| Ideal for both women and men even for competitive training | They are also ideal for both women and men, Empower 3 in 1 is an ideal kettlebell for women. |
| A set of Standard kettlebell is not cheap and will cost you a fortune | Adjustable kettlebell combine the entire set you get in a standard kettlebell and sell you for one price that is the best you can get for the same money! |
| For standard kettlebells the portability is questionable since if you need to move, it will be difficult to move a set of standard kettlebells | Adjustable kettlebells are very portable since you only have one mass to worry about while a set of standard kettlebells you have 5-6 and a kettlebell rack. |
Debunking Common Myths about Adjustable Kettlebells
There are many myths propagated about adjustable kettlebells and why they are not as good as the standard kettlebells, lets examine the fact and debunk these myths :
- Adjustable kettlebells are unsafe – This is the most common misconception that the weight can slip and injure you during exercises. Whilst, I cannot defend all adjustable kettlebells on the mechanism they use to lock the weight, I can attest that I have used 36 Pound Stamina, Mir Pro 83 lbs and CFF 40 pound Russian adjustable kettlebell and they are simply awesome!
- Adjustable Kettlebells are not worth – this is a common misconception but if you compare the prices for buying the same weight for adjustable kettlebells and the standard kettlebell, you will see there is a huge price difference.
- Adjustable kettlebells are cumbersome to use – initially, adjustable kettlebells may be difficult to use especially for beginners but with time you get used to the kettlebell and you are going to be changing the weight fast than you can think! The weight change break also allows you to rest in between the training session.
- Adjustable kettlebells are not durable – this is a ridiculous misconception that holds no water. Most of the adjustable kettlebells I have trained with like Rocketlok 24-36 Adjustable Kettlebell that have a unique design are the most durable kettlebells you can ever get. Most are made of Cast Iron and they have a well research and innovated locking mechanism. Most of the designs are patented making them exceptional in the market; example is the CrossBell adjustable kettlebell.
My Verdict & Top 10 Best Adjustable Kettlebells
Standard kettlebells may offer you a great way to start kettlebell training but just think about this; will you be buying a new standard kettlebell every time you want to upgrade to a heavier weight? If long term kettlebell training is valuable to you, I would recommend you buy an adjustable. Here is the list of the top 10 Adjustable kettlebells you should consider buying:
I hope this article has outlined the differences between the standard kettlebells and adjustable kettlebells. I hope you can now make an informed choice of the type of kettlebell that you would like to own.
Adjustable Kettlebell Reviews Video
Here is one of the top reviews video on YouTube and this is what he had to say
To sum this up, I would like to know what you think about adjustable kettlebell or the standard kettlebells, please take time to tell us about your favorite and also leave us a comment on why you prefer either type of kettlebell. Check out Empower 3 in 1 adjustable kettlebell and others on Amazon for latest price and discounts