Core Recipe

I guess I never even knew what a kettlebell (or girya) was until I saw the class listing at CLAY for Intro to Kettlebell. Basically, if you also need clarification, it’s a weight in the shape of a ball, with a handle on top. It was used by the Russian military and Special Forces and is now becoming a popular instrument used in everyday workouts.

Because of the small workout rooms at CLAY, the class required me to sign in at the front desk. When I entered the room (about 400 sq ft with a mirror on one side), the instructor said, “Who are you?” He then introduced me to each of the five other people in the class by name. Intimate was how I would describe this class; CLAY really knows how to meet your expectations of what an exclusive gym should be.

Even though this was an intro class, based on my inexperience with the kettlebell I expected the workout to be difficult. The lowest weight available was 10 pounds, but using the kettlebell is a bit awkward and many times you are holding it with one hand, which for me, was quite heavy at times. The class went at a steady pace, while the instructor took us through a variety of exercises: squats, lunges, cleans, rows, swings, windmills, sit-ups, all while using the kettleball to gain a full body workout. Every 10-15 minutes, the instructor would single people out to show them how to perfect their form. Usually, at larger gyms, this is done while people are working out, but he stopped the workout and explained in detail how to do the exercises the correct way.

I enjoyed learning how to use the kettlebell and I will now incorporate these exercises into my personal workouts. The kettlebell is known to increase strength, power, speed, coordination and core stability—I was sore for two days. In terms of taking this class again, I would want to do the more advanced class which I assume to be a non-stop workout. Also, the instructor kept referencing a piece of paper with the exercises he took us through—I thought that was a bit unprofessional. I have since seen this class offered at other gyms, so take a look at your fitness schedule and try these wonderful kettlebells out yourself!