The kettlebell is one of the most versatile pieces of gym equipment on the market today. It enables you to perform almost any task, and most workout programs have one or more kettlebell workouts included for you to do. An adjustable kettlebell can save you a ton of money on different training equipment, giving you a complete set of equipment bundled up in one. There are plenty of reasons why you should include it in your routine.
Our Top Pick
Best Adjustable Kettlebell Overall
If you ever used a workout machine that enables you to adjust the weight with a pin, the POWERBLOCK Adjustable Kettlebell will be one that you will understand. It looks completely different from your standard kettlebell and instead of having numerous plates to put on and take off, you simply adjust the pin.
Best Adjustable Kettlebell for Beginners
The Empower Kettlebell Weight Set might not be one of the fanciest kettlebell sets you will find, but it is a small and portable option. The unit comes with 3 adjustable weight levels that easily allows you to achieve your desired results. It is the ideal option for beginners and to perform fast exercises such as cardio.
Best Heavy-duty Adjustable Kettlebell
The Ironmaster Quick-Lock Kettlebell is one of these heavy-duty kettlebells and looks like a raw kettlebell that you will find in your gym. It has a maximum weight of 57.5-pounds, but these are broken up into small increments.
Most Versatile Adjustable Kettlebell
The Kettle Gryp Adjustable Kettlebell is a solid plastic clamp that will fit around almost any dumbbell you have and give you the versatility of an adjustable kettlebell to work out with.
Many people never use the kettlebell at the gym. However, every personal trainer we consulted with noted the importance of having it in the workout program. As mentioned, it opens up a new avenue of different workouts and exercises that can help you build muscle, but you need to make sure that you find the right one.
In this article, we explore a couple of the top kettlebells on the market today. The variety is staggering, and with the recent surge in popularity, they are popping up right next to the dumbbell rack in many home gyms. Since it is popular, there are also a variety of options to choose from. Fortunately, we have narrowed it down to only 10 of the best.
Best Adjustable Kettlebells On The Market
Much like a dumbbell, there are not many intricate features that make up the kettlebell. The lack of complex features means that many of them are similar, as you will see in this article. We have done the research to try and isolate the fine detail and differences. Additionally, you will also see our buyer’s guide the describe these features more clearly.
1. POWERBLOCK Adjustable Kettlebell
If you ever used a workout machine that enables you to adjust the weight with a pin, the POWERBLOCK Adjustable Kettlebell will be one that you will understand. It looks completely different from your standard kettlebell, and instead of having numerous plates to put on and take off, you adjust the pin.
The adjustable kettlebell functions like a regular steel kettlebell you would use in your gym, but the pin holds the weights in plates. Once you remove the pin, you still have a solid kettlebell, but the weight is reduced. Keep in mind that the unit has four different weight increments that you can adjust until you find the right weight.
Since it starts at only 18-pounds, it should be ideal for women to use as well. The maximum weight of 36-pounds is what most men will use. However, it does offer some limitations for men in not allowing them to add more than 36-pounds. For cardio, it will be one of the most comfortable workout kettlebells.
The biggest disappointment is the circumference of the handle. It is small, and people with large hands might find it a little uncomfortable to use the kettlebell. Aside from the circumference, the handle is also thick. Some women might have trouble getting their hands around the bar comfortably for a workout routine.
Fortunately, all of these features are not too expensive, and you can get away with them at an affordable price. We could not find any information on the warranty, but customer support is helpful. The durability also means that you don’t need to worry about it ever breaking or damages occurring on the kettlebell.
2. Kettle Gryp Adjustable Kettlebell
While not a kettlebell when you look at the grip itself, it is a product that can help you use almost any dumbbell as a kettlebell. The Kettle Gryp Adjustable Kettlebell is a solid plastic clamp that will fit around virtually any dumbbell you have and give you the versatility of an adjustable kettlebell to work out with.
It is less than one pound, and the entire unit clamps around the grip area of your dumbbell. Since the hooks that clamp together are located at the top of the unit, it is much easier to check that they do not come loose. The lightweight also makes it the ideal accessory that you can travel with from gym to gym.
Using the unit, we have seen that it clamps together solidly without any real gaps that allow the dumbbells to shake loose. It is sturdy and has an ergonomic handle to lift the dumbbell more comfortably. Additionally, a stylish bright color looks great with any dumbbell that you own or use at the gym.
Unfortunately, there are a couple of downsides one also needs to consider. The unit does not work with all dumbbells. The inner part that will grip the dumbbell can only hold a specific size. Most dumbbell grips are the same size, but at the heavier weights, it can potentially be too large for you to fit the particular dumbbell inside.
Additionally, the stability of the unit depends on the dumbbells that you are using. If you use dumbbells with a hexagon shape, it should be much easier to have them sit still on the ground. However, rounded dumbbells might still roll around. We have also had instances of the weight distribution not being even due to it being dependant on the dumbbell.
As for the price, you can breathe a sigh of relief. It is one of the more affordable accessories that you can have in your training set. The unit does not need any maintenance, but you will need your dumbbells. We would recommend it to individuals with dumbbells at home or those that want to use it in the gym.
3. Empower Kettlebell Weight Set
The Empower Adjustable Kettlebell Weight Set might not be one of the fanciest kettlebell sets you will find, but it is a small and portable option. The unit comes with three adjustable weight levels that easily allow you to achieve your desired results. It also looks professional, but the lower weight might only make it suitable for women.
The maximum weight limit is 12-pounds, and all you need to do to remove the plates is simply click and twist them to remove one. They will slide off, and you can use the kettlebell without the additional weight. Even when the weights are taken off the unit, it still provides the user with excellent stability and even weight distribution.
Should you be a beginner, you might not understand all the exercises associated with a kettlebell. However, a DVD is part of the deal, showing you some of the most common workout routines and how to perform them. An ergonomic handle means that you don’t have to deal with any discomfort when using the kettlebell.
The limit weight can be an issue of concern. Most women might be comfortable with only 12-pounds, but we have noticed that even women will grow past the 12-pound weight limit quite rapidly. It is ideal for performing fast exercises and be reserved for a great cardio workout after strength training.
Fortunately, the Empower Adjustable Kettlebell Weight Set is much cheaper than many other units with extra weight plates. You don’t have much versatility or functionality, but the limited workouts you can do will justify the price. The additional DVD is a great benefit, making this the ideal beginner option.
4. Ironmaster Quick-Lock Kettlebell
A heavy-duty adjustable kettlebell is your best bet, especially when you are serious about working out. The Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Kettlebell is one of these heavy-duty kettlebells and looks like a basic kettlebell that you will find in your gym. It has a maximum weight of 57.5-pounds, but these are broken up into small increments.
Unlike many other adjustable kettlebells, the unit will also adjust in size depending on the amount of weight you add to it. Since there are no open spaces, you won’t risk straining yourself due to a weight imbalance on the unit. The handle has a large circumference for both your hands and increases your workout selection.
One of the many benefits that you need to be aware of is the ease at which you can adjust the weight. It does not take more than a couple of seconds to remove plates and continue to work out. The benefit to this is the optional drop set workouts that you can add. Dropping weight with each set is perfect for cardio.
With the minimum weight starting at 22.5-pounds, it is a little heavy for women who are just beginning. Unfortunately, you cannot adjust the minimum weight, as all the weight is centered inside the handle. However, you can simply use the plates for working out as well, and they are universal to fit onto any adjustable dumbbell.
Being slightly expensive should not put you off from this unit, as all the features make it worth the price in the end. Additionally, users have a limited lifetime warranty that they can tap into if any damages occur. However, we believe that the durability will look after you, and you won’t need to deal with any damages.
5. Kettlebell Kings Black Adjustable Kettlebell Weights & Kettlebell Set
This option on our list is a combination of 7 different kettlebells that are all made into one. The unit is made with different plates that can be removed and added as you grow stronger from working out. It is one of the larger adjustable kettlebells with durable steel that forms the bulk of the plates, and they even resist drops to the floor.
The weight ranges go up to the 40-pound mark, which seems a little too heavy for most beginners. However, it only takes a couple of minutes to take the kettlebell apart. You don’t need any specialized skills or equipment to remove the plates. A simple twist motion is all that is necessary to turn the plates off the bar.
The entire kettlebell has a smooth finish and design. The grip section should fit snugly into your hands, helping you prevent calluses from appearing. Once you add all the weight plates, they fit securely on the unit, reducing the chances of accidents when the plates accidentally snap off. The unit is perfectly balanced, with the weight being accurate as well.
The only downside is that when you remove the plates, the unit will lose the ball shape. While this is not an issue for everyone, the oversized design makes it feel a little uncomfortable. However, the plates are perfectly weighted, and the weight is well spread. You won’t need to worry about it tipping over when you are working out.
Most kettlebells can be expensive, especially when you buy them separately. However, the Kings Black Adjustable Kettlebell Weights & Kettlebell Set is affordable and gives you the benefit of 7 kettlebells in one. Whether you are male or female, you should find a comfortable weight to work out with.
Titan Fitness is by far one of the leading brands for homemade fitness equipment. No matter which type of training equipment you choose, you are bound to run into Titan. The Titan Fitness 10-40 lb Adjustable Kettlebell is a perfectly designed adjustable kettlebell that enables you to select your weight using up to 40-pounds.
6. Apex Adjustable Heavy-Duty Exercise Kettlebell Weight Set
Aesthetics are rarely necessary in the world of fitness. However, it does help your weight set look more professional. The Apex Adjustable Kettlebell Heavy-Duty Exercise Weight Set is one of the most aesthetically appealing units on the market today. It is made from solid cast iron with a powder coating for added protection.
The kettlebell can hold up to 50-pounds, bit does not come with any weighted plates. Five spacer plates are inserted to act like dummies, but these plates also bring some stability to the unit. The standard weight is 15-pounds for the handle and an additional bottom plate of 5-pounds. You will have 20-pounds to start with.
The fact that you can add your own plates to the unit gives you versatility and puts all the power in your hands. You don’t need to use a set amount of weight. You can add different plates, but you should consider looking at each plate’s weight balance and distribution. Unfortunately, it is not made to be dropped.
As you might have guessed, the lack of plates and weight is one of the most significant downsides. It is hard to find suitable plates, and often, plates are made for specific equipment. You will need to dole out the extra cash to find a universal set of plates. It can be a costly endeavor but an excellent long-term training solution.
One might think that without the weight plates, it is an expensive unit. However, it is very durable and reliable. The ergonomic handle needs no maintenance, and you can easily add or remove plates. Once you have plates, you will notice the functionality. The unit also works well when you go to the gym and need a specifically weighted kettlebell.
7. Titan Fitness 10-40 lb Adjustable Kettlebell
While many others might have different weight increments, this adjustable kettlebell gives you six plates, all made from durable cast iron. They simply lockout, and you can remove them if you need to drop the weight. However, they remain sturdy and securely locked into place when you are not using the unit with a weight of less than 40-pounds.
A 1.5-inch wide handle is a standard for most kettlebells that we use in our gym. Much like the plates, it is also made from durable cast iron. A powder coating protects the adjustable kettlebell from damage, and the bottom has been padded. The benefit of having padding allows you to drop it without causing any potential damage.
One complaint that some people have come across is that the handle seems to come loose, resulting in serious injury for some users. However, you can use a Phillips screwdriver to ensure that the grip remains firmly locked into place. As part of the maintenance, you should consider doing this often.
The Titan Fitness 10-40 lb Adjustable Kettlebell is an affordable addition to the gym equipment you have at home. Aside from regular maintenance, which is common among most fitness equipment, the unit is ideal for beginners and professionals. Titan is also a reliable brand with excellent customer service.
8. Stamina X Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell
Larger weight increments can be hard to deal with, especially since not many of us can make the jump in weight that all training centers offer. However, the Stamina X Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell only has 4-pound increments and comes to a total of 36-pounds once all the plates are placed on the bar of the adjustable kettlebell.
The outer part of the kettlebell features cast iron, which ensures durability and a powder coating to keep the metal protected. It has a mat that you can use to drop the unit when you have completed the exercise. Yes, dropping weight is not only a gym fad but often helps when performing explosive exercises.
You don’t need to worry about any imbalance, as an outer casing holds the plates securely on the inside. Once they are locked around the bar, they will be firmly locked into place, reducing the need for you to adjust too much. According to the manufacturer, it enables you to do pushups on the casing instead of the bar.
The only downside is that a lot of plastic is part of the casing, and the plastic can eventually wear out and lead to damage. The unit has a wide radius that can make it impossible to use two of them without feeling unnatural. However, it is perfect when you are only using one of them, and no one will notice that plates are not used with the casing.
It is also one of the most expensive units on the list, and this adjustable kettlebell can be a little rough on your budget. However, many people are using it for many years, which shows a lot for durability. We have noted that excellent customer service also has your back. It is recommended for men and women working out.
9. Titan Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell
Did you know that there are competitions where the kettlebell is one of the things that competitors need to master? If you are part of these competitions, the Titan Adjustable Kettlebell Competition-Style is one of the perfect options for you, especially in the strongman competitions where the kettlebell is thrown.
It does not come with a specific set of plates that form certain increments but rather a variety of plates in different increments. These increments allow you to create your own combination and find the perfect weight for your needs. All the plates are held inside the casing that protects them and gives you a well-rounded unit.
The outer casing is made from cast iron, but all the components like the handle are sized explicitly for competition purposes. The handle is thick, with a wide circumference for your hands to fit inside. Most people can get two hands inside the kettlebell without any trouble. The outer casing is also perfect for pushups.
The downside is that the sizing might be a little uncomfortable for many women. Unfortunately, you will need large hands to grip around the kettlebell. It does not provide you with any assistance when it comes to the grip either. However, the smooth finish complements durability and protects it from potential damage.
Titan Fitness is a leading brand in the fitness industry, explaining why the unit is expensive. Additionally, the minimum weight is 25-pounds, making it hard for women to begin with. If you are a competitor, this would be the perfect kettlebell for you. Additionally, it is ideal for men that want a heavyweight.
10. NewMe Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
Last but certainly not least, we have the NewMe Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Handle. It is not a kettlebell per-say but can help you create your kettlebell if you have a few plates around the house. Solid steel forms the central part of the handle, making it durable and giving it the ability to hold heavy loads or plates.
The unit holds 1-inch plates, but you might need to go smaller if you want to stack the weight on the bar. It has a decent handle with a large circumference that can allow any male or female to use it. Additionally, the handle is not too thick like some of the others we have seen, giving it more usability for all people.
The design is ideal for beginners, and it is perfect for traveling. You can add small plates or large plates to the kettlebell handle. However, the smaller plates are better for keeping the weight distribution even. The clamp is simple and easy to screw into the bar. It should not take you more than a minute to have it ready for use.
Unfortunately, it comes with a whole host of different downsides. One of these downsides is the lack of stability. Once you had plates, the unit does not stand upright. It is nearly impossible to do pushups on the handle. However, you can stack the handle and do pushups, but it might be too high and uncomfortable.
While the handle is affordable, plates are expensive. You will need multiple different plates in various increments to help you get the desired weight you are aiming to achieve. If you don’t have plates at home, you can still use them at the gym, but it defeats the purpose of training at home. If you already have a couple of weights, it is a great option to buy.
7 Reasons Why You Should Consider Adding Kettlebells To Your Workout Routine
The kettlebell is one of the most versatile pieces of training equipment. We have already noted that almost any training program has some sort of kettlebell workout in it. If you have not yet considered the kettlebell, these ten reasons might help you to decide why the kettlebell is an essential part of almost any workout routine:
1. Versatile Workout Routines
Next to the dumbbell, few accessories can have such an impact on your workout routine. The dumbbell makes it hard to grip with two hands, which is why the kettlebell can serve as a replacement. You can perform almost any workout routine with the kettlebell, including one-handed curls if you are training arms.
2. Better Range Of Motion
The most important part of working out is the motion you are performing. It is better to reduce weight and have a better posture, as this will yield much better results. With the kettlebell, you don’t have any limitations that many machines might force upon you. The increased range of motion could target more muscle groups at the same time.
3. Burn More Calories
Doing regular star jumps or pushups with your body weight is an excellent way for beginners to start. However, the human body is great at adapting, and eventually, you won’t see the same results as you grow stronger. The kettlebell can add additional weight that will require more energy to burn when you work out.
Additionally, you have multiple exercises that you can incorporate into one practice. These exercises can help you break through barriers and burn more calories. With a kettlebell workout routine, you don’t need to train for hours to see results. You can simply spike your heart rate with a few exercises, and the calories will burn off.
4. You Can Train More Muscle Groups
Time is the one thing that we all lack in life. Most people have busy schedules, and they cannot make it to the gym to work out. However, the kettlebell allows you to do more in a shorter amount of time. One can train the upper and lower part of the body simultaneously. As mentioned, you work out more muscles but also burn off more calories.
5. Improved Core Strength
If you are already a member of your local training center, one kettlebell should not be enough for you to cancel your membership. However, the kettlebell is a free weight, which forces you to contract your core muscles as you work out. The improved strength in your core muscles can lead to increased overall strength and better body posture.
6. There Are No Age Limitations
When you sign up at the gym, you need to be a certain age. Additionally, many experts also recommend being at a certain age to allow your muscles to naturally develop before training them. However, a kettlebell at home with adjustable weight plates enables any person to train. Just try never to exceed what you can lift to prevent injuries.
7. The Complete Package
Buying multiple weights or machines is expensive, but an adjustable dumbbell has all the weight you need to complete almost any exercise. It is the complete package since you can use it the same way you would use a dumbbell. Additionally, it can help you to create symmetry and work on individual muscle weaknesses that we all have.
What To Look For When Buying An Adjustable Kettlebell:
Not all of these kettlebells are the same, and not everyone can use all of them. There are a couple of intricate features that you need to look for to ensure you find one perfect for you. While all the options mentioned above can help you, you might need to look at some of these features to pick the right one among them:
Type
Each type does not have a specific name, but you will need to consider which kind you will be using or like the most. Generally, the type you choose is not that important, but it all comes down to personal preference. The most common types are ideal for all individuals and should allow you to make a lot of progress:
Handle Only:
If you already have the weighted plates at home, you don’t need to buy a kettlebell with a set weight. Additionally, you don’t need an adjustable kettlebell with a specific weight limit. You might only need the handle with the screws that allow you to assemble your very own weights.
Enclosed Kettlebell:
The enclosed kettlebell holds all the weighted plates on the inside, keeping them protected. These kettlebells have a set rounded shape that gives you stability when you are using them and even weight distribution at all times.
Open Kettlebell:
This one has many similarities to the enclosed kettlebell. However, it does not have a base that is closed. Often, it is hard to find stability, and the weights might shake around. The open kettlebell is not made for throwing or dropping.
No matter which one you choose, there is a slight price difference between them. However, the handle might seem like the cheapest option, but it will be an expensive endeavor if you don’t have any plates at your disposal. The loose plates are by far the most costly part of the training equipment used at home.
Materials
Many people only see a kettlebell and decide to buy it without looking at what it is made from. The materials are essential, and you want something durable that will last you many years. Cast iron is by far the best material for the job. However, it is also costly to buy, and you need a protective coating.
Often, you will see that plastic is part of the casing. The additional plastic keeps everything safe on the inside. However, you might want a steel or iron casing if you buy the enclosed kettlebell. The steel is more rigid, and when you place your full weight on it, you can do pushups. It helps with versatile workout routines.
Weight
Not all of us have the same strength, which means that we can’t lift the same heavyweights. If you are male, you will be looking for a heavier set, and women might go slightly lighter. It is essential to find the weight that you can work out with; it helps prevent potential injuries that could cause a lot of damage.
Size
When referring to size, we are mainly referring to the handle of the kettlebell. The handle is an important part, and there are a few things to look at. Unfortunately, not every handle will work the same for every person using a kettlebell. Here is a couple of things about the grip that some people neglect to look at:
Width:
When the handle is too broad, it is uncomfortable to fit in your hands. While men might use a wide grip, ladies would require a smaller handle for comfortability. A 1-inch handle is a little small but can be comfortable and easy to use for most women.
Circumference:
There are many exercises that you can do with kettlebells that allow you to use both hands. However, you need to make sure that your kettlebell is big enough for both your hands to fit inside.
Ergonomics:
The shape of the handle can make or break the unit. It should have a slight bend that is natural to that of your hands. An ergonomic handle is much easier to work with and hold when working out.
Grip:
It is not common for these kettlebells to have additional grip. However, some have molded finger spaces for you to hold. The grip is not always what you want to focus on, which means that having additional gripping holes allow you to focus on the workout.
Additionally, the size of the outer ball impacts whether you can use two of them or not. We have mentioned that an enclosed kettlebell is larger, and you can’t always use two of them simultaneously. However, most of the time, we are only using one kettlebell as beginners in fitness.
Setup
With these kettlebells, you don’t need to set up anything. However, they often have screws that hold the plates together. You need to check these screws constantly to see if they have come loose or not. It is much better to be on the safe side than risk any potential injury that can ruin your workout routine.
Brands
If you are buying the kettlebell online, it is best that you also do a little research about the brand you are choosing. Unfortunately, a kettlebell can be redesigned and sold as a knock-off. Instead of solid steel plates, you might receive plastic knock-offs. Fortunately, the brands we have selected all come with a decent reputation for quality.
Price
One needs to consider how often you are working out when you choose a kettlebell. Yes, it is a lifelong investment, but working out is also a lifelong investment if you want any decent results. If you are only going to use it once a month, your strength gains are limited, and you don’t need to pay a hefty price for the one with the most weight.
Warranty
The final important part is the warranty. While the chances that your kettlebell will break is meager, you still might want a decent warranty for peace of mind. Fortunately, most reputable brands have a warranty in place. A limited lifetime warranty is a perfect option for you to ensure you get peace of mind and value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
The buyer’s guide should contain all the details you need to buy the perfect adjustable kettlebell. However, many people have general questions regarding a kettlebell. With the additional research we have, we will try to answer as many of these questions, making you an expert when it comes to the kettlebell:
What Size Kettlebell Should I Get?
While the kettlebell you choose will come down to your strength, there are a few things that we have seen from a common trend. Beginners should start at 18-pounds if they are male. However, more athletic men can start with 26-pounds. If you are not active, you can come down to 16-pounds as a male.
Women are a little harder, as their strength capabilities vary. It is best to start around the 14 or 16-pound mark if you are an active female, but it also comes down to your experience and strength. We recommend starting light and eventually increasing the weight as you progress and become stronger.
How Often Should I Do Kettlebell Swings?
Kettlebell swings can be a strenuous exercise on your body, especially when you do it as part of a HIIT workout routine. It works for multiple muscle groups. However, you can do it daily if you keep the volume low. Since HIIT helps you burn calories for up to 24-hours, you might want to hold off on doing it every other day for the best results.
How Many Calories Does Kettlebells Burn?
As humans, we burn different calories that are related to our basal metabolic rate or BMR. However, an average 180-pound male can burn around 20-calories per minute. If you do the math, you will find that you can potentially burn 400-calories with a 20-minute workout. However, the intensity is something to keep in mind.
Can I Lose Weight With Kettlebells?
Kettlebells are part of strength training but can also be seen as cardio. Since it is a hybrid workout, it is much easier to burn calories and lose weight. The more you do it, the more muscle you will build. Each pound of muscle you add on can help to burn a couple of additional calories without you doing anything.
Will Kettlebells Help Me Get A Six Pack?
Doing more cardio or ab exercises for a six-pack is one of the biggest myths. Unfortunately, the body will only build the ab muscles and not make them more visible. If you want to have a visible six-pack, you need to lose body fat. Kettlebells help you burn calories, which can help you lose some body fat. However, you will gradually lose body fat all over your body and eventually lose the visceral fat along the belly.
Are Kettlebells Good for Crossfit?
What makes the kettlebell such a unique workout is that it works for almost any sport type. If you read the reviews, you should notice that they even have strongman competitions with kettlebell throws as part of the competition. You can incorporate kettlebells in almost any workout routine or sport you like.
Conclusion
The adjustable kettlebell can be your best friend when working out. It has many great features that are ideal for any sporting type. The products in this review are all backed by quality brands, and many fitness experts also love them. If you want to save money and start working out on the cheap, an adjustable kettlebell is your best friend.