If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what the best adjustable kettlebell for full body workouts are, then we recommend the Yes4All Cast Iron Kettlebell Weight Sets as the best one.
If you are thinking about intensifying or starting a resistance workout routine, congratulations!
You have taken the first step in changing your health for the better. When you first start out, the myriad of choices out there can be quite overwhelming.
With that in mind, one excellent way to tone your muscles and get into shape is through the use of kettlebells.
In the last few decades, kettlebells rose to popularity as a vital part of resistance training thanks to many celebrities who used them.
Even better are adjustable kettlebells, which allow you to modify the weight as you progress.
In this article, we will discuss what features to look for in an adjustable kettlebell and we will review a total of 5 of the most popular products available today.
Lastly, we will determine our top pick and why we believe it is the best.
Here are the best adjustable kettlebells we’ll be reviewing:
- Yes4All Cast Iron Kettlebell Weight Sets
- POWERBLOCK Adjustable Kettlebell
- Stamina X Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell
- PowerBlock KettleBlock
- Empower Kettlebell Weight Set
What Should You Look For in an Adjustable Kettlebell?
When considering using kettlebells, you can’t go wrong in opting for an adjustable kettlebell.
However, keep in mind that as these pieces of equipment go up in quality, they also increase in price exponentially.
While there is nothing wrong with having the best of quality equipment, you want to take careful consideration as to what to look for in the best adjustable kettlebell.
Value for money is key along with other additional benefits to using an adjustable kettlebell.
Adding or Subtracting Weight
A lighter kettlebell with fewer increments will suffice if you only desire a simple workout and you won’t be using it often.
Many kettlebells on the market have around 3 weight increments for a total of 12 lbs.
Conversely, if you are quite determined about your exercise routine, or if you are currently in decent shape, you may want a heavier kettlebell with a lot of increments.
There are some kettlebells available with 7 to 8 increments which total up to 40 or 50 lbs.
Safe and Easy Weight Adjustments
Another crucial factor when considering the best adjustable kettlebell for your needs is how to adjust the weight plates.
We’ve all gone through that annoyance of having to waste much of our time adjusting a piece of workout equipment when we could have used that time working out.
Therefore, you want to avoid this frustration.
Probably one of the most important things to look for in the increment adjustment system is to make sure the weight plates are securely locked in place as you do your workout.
You want a system that only requires a few twists and clicks and keeps the plates secure.
You have a lot of various increment systems on the market to choose from.
However, each individual’s preferences are different, so the type of weight adjustment technique that works for another person may not necessarily work for you.
One of the most efficient designs houses the weights inside the kettlebell which maintains a constant center of gravity as you exercise.
What Kind of Handle Does It Have?
Yet another easily overlooked but vital feature to consider is the grip handle of the kettlebell.
We recommend you do a test run of the product to make sure it fits comfortably with the size and shape of your hand and won’t cause any calluses or blisters.
You are not going to want to continue your resistance training regimen if your hands are always hurting.
Some people prefer handles with foam padding; however, this padding can easily break off after repeated use of the kettlebell.
Keep in mind that finding that perfect kettlebell may require some trial and error until you find the perfect one for you.
What Is the Kettlebell Made Of?
When shopping around for a kettlebell, keep one simple goal in mind – the more metal that the kettlebell is comprised of, the better.
Metal is far more durable than rubber, plastic, or other materials and won’t get damaged as easily.
Advantages of an Adjustable Kettlebell
It is a given fact that using a kettlebell will deliver a lot of physical, as well as mental, benefits to your body and mind.
With that said, using an adjustable kettlebell is even better as we will detail below.
Budget Friendly
Sometimes the very cost of workout equipment can deter the most motivated individual from starting a new exercise routine.
Kettlebells are no exception and a standard non-adjustable kettlebell can set you back anywhere from 1 to 2 dollars per single pound.
Consequently, if you desire kettlebells that range from 5 to as much as 50 pounds in weight, this will be a significant investment of several hundred dollars.
In contrast, an adjustable kettlebell will have all of those weights in one.
This will save you a lot of time and money since you don’t have to purchase numerous separate kettlebells for each weight.
Easy To Increase Weights
By now, this is an obvious no-brainer since we discussed this benefit earlier.
As opposed to spending precious time going and retrieving a heavier standard kettlebell, you can simply add a weight increment to your adjustable kettlebell and keep going.
Space Conservation
As more people become minimalistic, space is at a premium.
Therefore, owning an adjustable kettlebell saves an enormous amount of space rather than having to store around 5 to 10 standard kettlebells.
Keep It Safe
First and foremost, before starting any new workout program, it is imperative that you consult your doctor first to make sure this workout is suitable for you.
Before you start using your adjustable kettlebell, make sure that you familiarize yourself with the guidelines and precautions for proper handling and usage.
Any wrong movement can result in muscle injury. Below are some additional precautionary measures when using an adjustable kettlebell.
Starting Out Too Heavy
Even if you are strong and in good shape, avoid starting out with a heavy kettlebell.
In the beginning, the idea is to get used to handling the kettlebell and the proper form required to do the swinging motions, so a lighter bell is recommended at this point.
Insufficent Space
A good rule of thumb is to plan your workout area based on your height plus one foot.
The swinging motion of a kettlebell can work like a wrecking ball and potentially damage your walls or furniture if you are not careful.
Additionally, make sure that children and animals are kept out of your swinging range.
When Movements Go Wrong
When you are inexperienced with a kettlebell, expect for movements to go awry.
With this in mind, if you find yourself making an incorrect motion, stopping midway can do more damage than good and can result in injured or torn muscles.
Instead, just allow the motion to play out and then start again.
Workouts Are Too Long
It can be easy to underestimate just how hard your muscles work when you are swinging a kettlebell.
Kettlebell workouts involve extremely high amounts of energy; you do not need to spend an hour as you might on a treadmill.
Once you start to get fatigued, this raises the potential for accidents if you drop the bell or bang it into something.
A good duration to shoot for is 20 minutes.
Improper Body Form
Initially, kettlebell programs appear to mostly work on arm and shoulder muscles.
However, when using proper form, your hips are the strength drivers during a kettlebell workout.
The shoulder and back muscles function to maintain balance as you swing, but if you start with using these muscles, you will injure yourself.
All By Yourself?
Seeking out a certified trainer is the ideal way to learn how to use kettlebells properly, avoid injury, and help you more quickly develop stamina rather than going it alone and risking injury.
Trainers certified from the Register of Kettlebell Professionals, the International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation, and the American Council on Exercise are highly recommended.
Top 5 Adjustable Kettlebells Reviewed
Now that you have an idea of the advantages of working out with an adjustable kettlebell, let’s review some of the best ones on the market today and determine which one would best fit your situation and needs
Yes4All Cast Iron Kettlebell Weight Sets
The Yes4All Cast Iron Kettlebell Weight Sets features 6 drop cast iron plates.
These plates can be conveniently taken out or put in to modify the overall weight, which ranges from 10 lbs to 40 lbs.
However, regardless of what issue you may have, the manufacturer Titan does pride themselves on exceptional communication capabilities and their 24-hour staff is truly happy to resolve any questions or concerns you may have.
They will offer a money-back guarantee if you’re not 100% happy with your product.
Pros:
- Wide comfortable grip comprised of black powder-coated cast iron to render it more sturdy.
- Each of the 6 modifiable plates is held in place with a strong, plastic clamp.
- Manufacturer provides outstanding customer service.
Cons:
- Some reported issues about the handle and locking device becoming loose after a few uses.
- Weights do not have a number or coding system indicating which order they should be placed in.
POWERBLOCK Adjustable Kettlebell
With the seriously heavy-duty weight POWERBLOCK Adjustable Kettlebell, you can substitute 4 kettlebells in 1. You also get the feel of a strong iron kettlebell that is adjustable at the same time. The increments are 18, 22, 26, and 35 lbs.
Nevertheless, PowerBlock is a reputable company with a history of good, durable products that will take whatever you dish out. If you are looking for a serious piece of workout equipment, this is a must have.
Pros:
- Outstanding build quality.
- Single pin is kept in place by a magnet, along with the force from the weight stack; modifying the weight takes only a few seconds.
- Compact unit size does not change as you adjust weight amounts since the weight stacks are nested inside the body of the device.
Cons:
- The kettlebell does make a little bit of noise while in use.
- If you plan to use this kettlebell on a regular basis, it is well worth the cost. However, if you are just looking for some light weights and don’t plan to increase your resistance, this bell would not be economical.
Stamina X Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell
The Stamina 36-Pound Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell is quite a heavy-duty adjustable kettlebell and offers six weight increments of 4 pounds each at 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, and 36 lbs.
It’s constructed much like a standard bell and the weight adjustments are very fast and effortless.
The manufacturer offers a 90-day warranty so you can return or replace it if you are not satisfied.
Many consumers are very happy with this well-made durable bell and it is highly recommended.
Pros:
- Includes a square base pad holder.
- Features a cast iron handle grip for different workouts that require you to hold the bell with both hands.
- It has a curved base for push up exercises.
Cons:
- Because of its adjustability, it is a bit bigger than cast iron kettlebells of similar weight.
- Handle may be awkward for smaller hands.
- Weights make a rattling noise while in use.
PowerBlock KettleBlock
PowerBlock KettleBlock is yet another serious-looking adjustable kettlebell made by a great company that has been around for many years.
With an adjustable weight range from 5 – 20 pounds, this kettlebell is well designed and sturdy.
It can take quite a beating so you can drop it as much as you want and there is no damage.
PowerBlock stands by this product with a warranty that covers 3 years for parts and 5 years for weights.
Despite a few design issues, this kettlebell has received rave reviews and does its job well.
Pros:
- Very reasonable price considering its versatility and 5-increment weight range.
- Solid metal handle is ideal for two-handed swings with its large opening.
- Weight adjustments are easy and super-fast.
- While being used, it produces minimal or no noise whatsoever.
- Color-coded weights stay secured at all times.
Cons:
- Some people may have a problem with the square shape which has some sharp edges. When performing certain exercises where the kettlebell is swung over, it can bang into the forearm. As a result, you may want to get a forearm pad.
Empower Kettlebell Weight Set
The Empower Kettlebell Weight Set is one of the lightest on the market and is geared specifically towards women.
If you are looking to add some resistance to your routine but don’t want to lift like an extreme bodybuilder, this is the ideal kettlebell for you.
If you are a woman with weaker upper arm strength but you still want to tone your arms and shoulders while getting in good resistance workout, this is the best adjustable kettlebell for you.
Pros:
- Ergonomically crafted for a woman’s grip while accomplishing a fluid, precise kettlebell workout.
- Patented twist and click concept easily adjusts weights from 5 lbs to 8 lbs to 12 lbs.
- Very affordable price.
- Includes ‘Swing Yourself Fit’ total body workout DVD.
- The workout DVD is enjoyable and simple to use.
Cons:
- Kettlebell does slightly change shape when the weights are modified and may affect some exercises and the center of gravity.
- There were some reports that the weight plates are easy to add but can be very difficult to remove due to stiff springs.
The All-Around Best Adjustable Kettlebell
Our personal top pick is the Yes4All Cast Iron Kettlebell Weight Sets.
For the reasonable price, it packs a sleek look and a tough punch. Your personal needs may vary, especially if you are just starting a new exercise program.
The first and foremost point to consider when starting a new workout regimen is that it is enjoyable for you.
While you want to add challenge to your workouts as you become more fit, it needs to be a program that you want to stick with.
With kettlebell workouts, you can achieve the same results in less time versus spending hours in the gym. With an adjustable kettlebell, you can also enjoy workouts on the go.
