If your first experience with kettlebells is seeing someone performing Turkish get-ups or even a kettlebell snatch, you might think these metal orbs aren't for you. The unusual and unique exercise movements you can perform with kettlebells are actually a good reason to use them; challenging your body in new ways improves your fitness. If you've never used a kettlebell it's best to start with basic movements like the kettlebell swing. But if you're an experienced user, then you should take advantage of some of the unusual exercises you can perform with your kettlebell.
Turkish Half Get-up
The Turkish half get-up looks unusual but a 2010 study published in ACE Fitness Matters notes that it forces you to engage multiple muscles groups in your abs, core and shoulders. With a kettlebell in your right hand you lie on your back with your right knee bent and left leg extended straight. You press the kettlebell straight up and lock your elbow. While you keep the kettlebell extended in the air, lift your upper body off the floor and into a seated position by using your core and you left arm for help. Slowly lower yourself back down and repeat before switching arms and performing the exercise on the other side.
Floor Press
The kettlebell floor press looks like someone bench pressing--without the bench. Lie on your back with a kettlebell in each hand and positioned close to your shoulders. From this position you press one arm straight up overhead until your arm is fully extended. Your upper body should rotate a little while you press the kettlebell up. Lower the kettlebell back down and then press with your other arm. Keep repeating the alternating movements until you reach your desired number of reps.
Halo
Another kettlebell exercise that you might not see every day is the kettlebell halo. The halo primarily targets your core muscles. Grab a kettlebell with both hands, one on each side of the handle. Stand with your feet at about shoulder width and then raise your kettlebell above your head with your elbows bent at about a 90-degree angle. Move your kettlebell in a circular motion around your head. After you finish the desired number of reps you should reverse direction and repeat the exercise.
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