Bloody Elbow Book Review: Kettlebell RX - The Complete Guide For Athletes And Coaches

Victory Belt, in my opinion the best publisher for MMA related instructional manuals, has released several books for the holiday season. They have expanded from their usual line of MMA books to include one on kettlebells. As TRX sessions and CrossFit gyms replace traditional gyms, the need for a well organized and comprehensive book becomes more and more necessary, especially for those that can't afford monthly fees. Enter Kettlebell RX.

Kettlebell RX was authored by Jeff Martone, a man that many consider to be one of the 'fore-fathers' of the modern American kettlebell movement. He's implemented a program for federal law enforcement as well as created different methods to get the most out of such a simple fitness product.

Kettlebell RX follows the same format as all Victory Belt books with photographs taken from various angles to showcase the proper technique and posture for the set of movements. The book is broken down into three parts: Kettlebells for CrossFitters, Rotational Power Development, and Introduction to Kettlebell Sport. "Kettlebells for CrossFitters" is sectioned off into additional parts focused on different lifts and series you can do with your kettlebells.

I have done the workouts that are illustrated in this book with my own 16kg kettlebells. I am not a daily kettlebell user nor am I someone who views kettlebell workouts as better for muscle groups than free weights and dumbbells. When it comes to lifting weights all workouts in my mind are terrible. However, the book's ability to break down the different series of lifts makes doing kettlebells a lot more enjoyable.

The section on the "Swing Series" is probably my favorite of the entire book. Due to the fact that I never worked out at a CrossFit gym, my posture is frankly terrible when doing swings and I have wrecked my back several times for this very reason. Seeing how swings are supposed to be performed can't be stated enough. My lower back still gets tight after these workouts but I'm able to function afterwards which is a nice change of pace for me.

The section dedicated to the "Turkish Get Up" focuses more on safety and proper body positioning than any other part of the book. It's very much appreciated considering the inherent danger in the Turkish Get Up series. It's the attention to details like this that make Victory Belt the best publisher in the market.

PROS:

- It's the most comprehensive book I've found on the subject of Kettlebells. The illustrations make each step understandable no matter the experience of the user.

- The sections makes it easy to find which series of lifts you want to complete on any given day.

- The lifts illustrated are good for any skill level. That's the beauty of kettlebell workouts. It doesn't matter if you're just starting or an old pro, the lifts are the same. This book just makes it easier to get the technique down.

- Adding the history of kettlebell sport is a nice touch.

CONS:

- I'd have preferred if the book provided some dietary advice for how to best fuel the body for a workout. There are different philosophies for what should go in pre and post workout and I'd have enjoyed reading what Jeff Martone had to say on the subject.

- Though the book provides a basic guide to a workout schedule, I'd like to see it get a little bit more detailed.

Price: $34.99 (US). You can buy the book here.

Disclaimer: I received this product for review from the publisher. It did not affect my review.