KINEMATIC AND KINETIC VARIABLES DIFFER BETWEEN KETTLEBELL SWING STYLES

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science

Background:

• Kettlebell (KB) and Indian club swings (ICS) are utilized for strength and power development.
• It's proposed that various swing techniques can be used interchangeably for similar training adaptations.
• This study investigated the biomechanical differences between different swing types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the kinematics and kinetics of the shoulder height kettlebell swing (SKS), overhead kettlebell swing (OKS), and ICS.
• To test the hypothesis that peak joint angles would not differ between swing types.
• To test the hypothesis that OKS would have a greater cycle time and vertical impulse than SKS and ICS.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional cohort study involving 15 healthy subjects.
• 3D biomechanical analysis was used to collect kinematic and kinetic data.
• Subjects performed SKS, OKS, and ICS with standardized equipment and loads, with lower extremity sagittal plane data analyzed.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found in peak joint angles between the SKS, OKS, and ICS.
• The OKS exhibited a 34% longer cycle time compared to SKS and ICS.
• Higher ankle and hip joint moments and peak vertical ground reaction forces were observed in SKS and OKS compared to ICS.

Conclusions:

• While kinematically similar, the distinct kinetic demands of SKS, OKS, and ICS are crucial.
• The choice of swing exercise may influence specific strength and power training outcomes.
• Understanding these biomechanical differences aids in selecting appropriate training modalities.