KETTLEBELL SPORT

What is Kettlebell Sport?

The kettlebell has roots that may stretch as far back as early Greece (circa 510 BC), when the Haltere was the tool of choice for physical development.

Haltere | Credit: Portum

In Europe, kettlebells were not used by people to get stronger, but rather to measure grain by weight.

Sometime in the 1700's, kettlebells were used in feats of strength at carnivals, festivals, fairs, and later - circuses.

Power Juggling is still a popular exhibition at sports festivals and kettlebell competitions

Credit: www.cavemantraining.com

Competition kettlebells are constructed from one piece of steel.

Competition kettlebell handles are more porous than cast iron handles, which allows them to absorb chalk better.

Timeline

In 1962, many of the modern rules of kettlebell sport were instituted.
In 1974 kettlebell sport or "Girevoy" was declared the ethnic sport of Russia.
In 1985 the first National Championship of the U.S.S.R. was held in Lipetsk.
In 1989 the new 10-minute time limit was introduced.
In 2001 women were finally included in National level competition.
In 2001-2002 relays became a more common inclusion - mainly for entertainment.
In 2010 the first kettlebell sport meet in Canada took place.
In 2012, Solly lifted at his first competition in Toronto, Ontario.
In 2013, after moving to Nanaimo, Solly competes at the Victoria Kettlebell Classic.
In 2013 the Nanaimo Kettlebell Club is born.
In 2017 - the first Grip Strength Kettlebell Competition.

The Lifts

SNATCH

JERK

LONGCYCLE