I've had a number of emails lately from enthusiasts asking me about this topic .
So, in case you weren’t informed , there is a activity called Kettlebell Sport (GS - where the “G” stands for “Girya,” or Kettlebell) which was founded in Russia and arrived in the US in the mid-2000s.
Up until that time, the only types of kettlebells you could get were the cast iron “Strength & conditioning” type.
This is most likely the standard shape kettlebell you’ve likely used or witnessed .
Here’s what the Competition Bells resemble:
And here's what they look like compared to each other:
(Image courtesy: Zack Henderson)
Now, honestly, I’ve only used Comp Bells a couple of occasions .
And I enjoy them.
But I’ve always used the cast iron kind and favor them .
Here’s why:Thicker Handles → Stronger Grip
Ever increasing bell size as weight gets heavier → More stability demand → More work → More variety
Cheaper (usually) → check here More bells
Bigger bells → Over 48kg if you want to go really heavy
Now that doesn’t mean Comp Bells are problematic . Not at all.
Here are some benefits:
Same size, different weights → Consistent feel, probably more (higher) reps
Consistent size → Less stability demand → Easier to lift
Smaller handle diameter → Easier on the grip → Less forearm fatigue
Less forearm fatigue → Higher reps per set
… Which is probably why these are optimized for the frequent kettlebell lifting found in Kettlebell Sport.
And, in conclusion, depending on the producer, you can get Adjustable Comp Bells, which are an “all-in-one” solution from 16kg - 32kg → Saves space
(Image courtesy: Bells of Steel)
However, the reality is this: No matter the type of kettlebell you pick, it’s ultimately your decision.
I recommend experimenting with both and finding out which suits you best .
Ultimately, at the end of the day, it’s not the model of kettlebell you pick, it’s how you train with it that drives the results you get.
Without structure, results can be unpredictable.
Professionally designed programming = Clear, reliable improvements in strength & muscle growth plus fat loss.
Stay Strong,
Geoff Neupert.