As someone who’s spent years in the fitness world, I’ve seen tons of workout trends come and go. But one tool that always sticks around and proves its worth is the kettlebell. You’ve got them in all sorts of weights, from tiny ones to those huge, intimidating ones. But if there’s one kettlebell weight that truly hits the mark for most people looking to get stronger and fitter, it’s the 35lb (16kg) kettlebell.
Why do I say 35lb is “ideal”? Let’s break down why this specific weight is such a superstar for your workouts.
The “Just Right” Weight: Not Too Heavy, Not Too Light
Think of it like Goldilocks finding her perfect porridge. The 35LB kettlebell isn’t usually where you start if you’re brand new to kettlebells (most beginners pick up an 18-26lb for men, or 8-13lb for women, especially for swings). But it’s often the weight you’ll work towards once you’ve learned the basic moves and are ready to build some serious strength and power.
Here’s why it’s “just right”:
- Your Ticket to Real Strength: For many guys, the 35LB kettlebell is where exercises like two-hand swings, goblet squats (holding it at your chest), and cleans (bringing it to your shoulder) really start to feel challenging and effective for building muscle. For strong women, it’s a great weight to push past basic workouts and develop significant power.
- Great for Fixing Your Form: When you’re learning a new move, you start light. But the 35LB kettlebell is heavy enough that it makes you use the right muscles and shows you if your technique is off. It helps you really nail down your hip hinge for swings or keep your body steady when you press it overhead. It challenges you without being so heavy that you completely lose control.
- Perfect for Getting Your Heart Pumping: This weight is heavy enough to make your heart race and build endurance when you do lots of reps or string different exercises together. But it’s usually not so heavy that you’re completely wiped out after a few tries, meaning you can keep going and get a fantastic full-body workout.
- Super Versatile for Many Exercises: Lighter kettlebells quickly become too easy for building strength. Super heavy ones can be too much for quick, energetic workouts or trickier moves. But the 35LB kettlebell can do it all:
- Power Moves: It’s great for two-hand swings, one-hand swings (for many), cleans, and even snatches (once you’re really good at the technique).
- Strength Builders: Use it for goblet squats, Turkish Get-Ups (a full-body exercise where you stand up from lying down with the kettlebell), and even overhead presses.
- Core Work: It makes your core work hard in every exercise, especially when you carry it around or hold it in different positions.
- Helps You Level Up: Moving up to a 35LB kettlebell is a clear, achievable goal after you’ve mastered lighter ones. Getting comfortable with it builds your confidence and sets you up perfectly to eventually tackle heavier bells like 44LB (20kg) or even 53LB (24kg).
Who Should Use the 35LB Kettlebell?
- Guys who are past the beginner stage: It’s an excellent primary weight for most kettlebell exercises.
- Stronger women: It offers a tough but rewarding challenge for swings, squats, and presses.
- Athletes (any sport): Great for boosting explosive power, grip strength, and overall conditioning.
- Anyone looking to seriously improve their fitness: If you’ve got the basics down and want to get stronger and more capable.
Just remember: If you’re completely new to kettlebells, don’t start here! Always learn the proper form with a lighter weight first. Your safety and good technique are way more important than lifting heavy too soon.
Get the Most Out of Your 35LB Kettlebell
Once you’re safely using the 35LB kettlebell, focus on these tips:
- Perfect Your “Hinge”: This is how you bend at your hips, not your back, for moves like the swing. It’s the most important skill.
- Master the Swing: Start with two hands, then move to one. This move builds incredible power.
- Add “Grinds”: These are slower, controlled moves like goblet squats and Turkish Get-Ups that build solid strength.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time with new exercises. Good form beats heavy weight every time.
- Try Kettlebell Combos: Put different exercises together (like a swing, then a clean, then a press) for a killer full-body workout.
Final Thoughts
The 35LB kettlebell holds a special place in the world of fitness. It’s not just a piece of weight; it’s a versatile tool that can help you unlock new levels of strength, power, and endurance. It’s the ideal balance of being challenging yet manageable for so many exercises and fitness goals.
If you’re ready to take your workouts up a notch and build a truly strong, capable body, the 35LB kettlebell might just be the “optimal” weight you need to add to your routine.