The acute hormonal response to the kettlebell swing exercise
Ronald G Budnar1, Anthony A Duplanty, David W Hill
11Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion and Recreation, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas; and 2Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas.
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|April 10, 2014
Summary
The kettlebell swing exercise acutely increases testosterone, growth hormone, and cortisol in men. This exercise may enhance resistance training programs by stimulating muscle adaptation hormones.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Endocrinology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Resistance training is crucial for muscle adaptation.
- Understanding the hormonal responses to different exercises can optimize training protocols.
- Kettlebell training is a popular form of resistance exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute hormonal response to the kettlebell swing exercise.
- To analyze changes in testosterone, growth hormone, cortisol, and lactate concentrations.
- To assess the potential of kettlebell swings as a supplement to resistance training.
Main Methods:
- Ten recreationally trained men performed 12 rounds of 30-second kettlebell swings with 30-second rests.
- Blood samples were collected pre-exercise, immediately post-exercise, and 15 and 30 minutes post-exercise.
- Hormone concentrations (testosterone, growth hormone, cortisol, lactate) and heart rate were measured.
Main Results:
- Testosterone levels were significantly higher immediately after exercise compared to pre-exercise and recovery.
- Growth hormone and cortisol showed significant increases post-exercise and during recovery.
- Lactate concentrations and heart rate also increased significantly, indicating an acute physiological stress response.
Conclusions:
- The kettlebell swing exercise elicits an acute hormonal response, including increases in anabolic and catabolic hormones.
- These hormonal changes suggest that kettlebell swings stimulate pathways involved in muscle adaptation.
- Kettlebell swings can be a valuable addition to existing resistance training programs.
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