Effects of kettlebell mass on lower-body joint kinetics during a kettlebell swing exercise

Functional training aims to provide specific adaptations due to exercise training and utilises a variety of equipment, including kettlebells. Due to the training principle of overload, a greater resistance must be applied to yield increased strength results. This study examined the effects of kettlebell mass on lower body joint kinetics in young recreationally trained adults. Thirty recreationally active, college-aged adults were recruited for this study. Participants performed hip-hinge style swings with kettlebells equivalent to 10%, 15% and 20% of their respective body mass. 3-D marker coordinate data were captured via infrared camera system and ground reaction force data were measured with two force plates. The resultant joint moments of the lower body were calculated using the inverse dynamics procedure. As mass increased, there was an increase in joint moment at the L4/5, hip and ankle joint, primarily due to an increase in ground reaction force. Increasing kettlebell mass can potentially cause greater strength gains in the hip and trunk musculature due to increase in lower body moments, while avoiding excessive moments about the knee.