• TRENDING
  • Fitness
  • Healthcare
  • Lifestyle
  • Shopping
  • Nutrition
  • Nutrition
  • Life / Sports
  • International
  • healthifyme
  • Nutrition Facts

Healthy Body Revive

SUBSCRIBE
  • Fitness
    FitnessShow More
    the-best-smith-machine-for-your-home-gym-in-2025-–-breaking-muscle
    The Best Smith Machine for Your Home Gym in 2025 – Breaking Muscle
    March 4, 2025
    strongest-pre-workout:-the-best-high-stim-picks-of-2025-–-breaking-muscle
    Strongest Pre-Workout: The Best High-Stim Picks of 2025 – Breaking Muscle
    March 3, 2025
    best-creatine-for-men-of-2025-–-breaking-muscle
    Best Creatine for Men of 2025 – Breaking Muscle
    March 3, 2025
    best-elliptical-machines-of-2025,-reviewed-by-fitness-experts-–-breaking-muscle
    Best Elliptical Machines of 2025, Reviewed by Fitness Experts – Breaking Muscle
    February 7, 2025
    the-best-power-rack-of-2025,-according-to-a-personal-trainer-–-breaking-muscle
    The Best Power Rack of 2025, According to a Personal Trainer – Breaking Muscle
    February 7, 2025
  • Healthcare
    HealthcareShow More
    what’s-so,-um,-great-about-the-world’s-greatest-stretch?
    What’s So, Um, Great About the World’s Greatest Stretch?
    June 19, 2025
    what-kind-of-workout-should-you-try?
    What Kind of Workout Should You Try?
    June 17, 2025
    a-weighted-vest-is-the-easiest-way-to-upgrade-your-daily-walks
    A Weighted Vest is the Easiest Way to Upgrade Your Daily Walks
    June 16, 2025
    3-push-up-modifications-to-try-if-you-can’t-yet-get-a-full-one
    3 Push-Up Modifications to Try If You Can’t Yet Get a Full One
    June 16, 2025
    we’ve-tried-hundreds-of-black-leggings—these-reign-supreme
    We’ve Tried Hundreds of Black Leggings—These Reign Supreme
    June 13, 2025
  • Lifestyle
    LifestyleShow More
    how-targeted-volume-training-solves-training-dysfunction-for-real,-lasting-results
    How Targeted Volume Training Solves Training Dysfunction for Real, Lasting Results
    June 6, 2025
    proximamente-el-10-de-junio-:-25-minute-speed-train-de-joel-freeman
    Próximamente el 10 de junio : 25 Minute Speed Train de Joel Freeman
    May 27, 2025
    a-venir-le-10-juin-:-25-minute-speed-train-de-joel-freeman
    À venir le 10 juin : 25 Minute Speed Train de Joel Freeman
    May 27, 2025
    coming-june-10th:-25-minute-speed-train-by-joel-freeman
    Coming June 10th: 25 Minute Speed Train by Joel Freeman
    May 27, 2025
    introducing-the-bodi-experience-community:-a-new-way-to-connect,-stay-motivated,-and-thrive
    Introducing the BODi Experience Community: A New Way to Connect, Stay Motivated, and Thrive
    May 19, 2025
  • Nutrition
    NutritionShow More
    do-probiotics-help-you-lose-weight?-find-out-now
    Do Probiotics Help You Lose Weight? Find Out Now
    May 9, 2025
    how-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-glp-1s:-a-conversation-guide
    How To Talk To Your Doctor About GLP-1s: A Conversation Guide
    May 8, 2025
    fat-burning-supplements-for-men:-hype-or-effective-solution?
    Fat Burning Supplements For Men: Hype Or Effective Solution?
    May 8, 2025
    body-fat-scale:-are-smart-scales-the-smarter-way-to-measure-health?
    Body Fat Scale: Are Smart Scales The Smarter Way To Measure Health?
    May 7, 2025
    best-snack-for-weight-loss:-smart-choices-for-success
    Best Snack For Weight Loss: Smart Choices For Success
    May 6, 2025
  • Privacy Policy
Reading: Kettlebells vs. Dumbbells: Which Is Better for Your Workouts?
Share
  • TRENDING
  • Fitness
  • Healthcare
  • Lifestyle
  • Shopping
  • Nutrition
  • Nutrition
  • Life / Sports
  • International
  • healthifyme
  • Nutrition Facts

Healthy Body Revive

SUBSCRIBE
  • Fitness
    FitnessShow More
    the-best-smith-machine-for-your-home-gym-in-2025-–-breaking-muscle
    The Best Smith Machine for Your Home Gym in 2025 – Breaking Muscle
    March 4, 2025
    strongest-pre-workout:-the-best-high-stim-picks-of-2025-–-breaking-muscle
    Strongest Pre-Workout: The Best High-Stim Picks of 2025 – Breaking Muscle
    March 3, 2025
    best-creatine-for-men-of-2025-–-breaking-muscle
    Best Creatine for Men of 2025 – Breaking Muscle
    March 3, 2025
    best-elliptical-machines-of-2025,-reviewed-by-fitness-experts-–-breaking-muscle
    Best Elliptical Machines of 2025, Reviewed by Fitness Experts – Breaking Muscle
    February 7, 2025
    the-best-power-rack-of-2025,-according-to-a-personal-trainer-–-breaking-muscle
    The Best Power Rack of 2025, According to a Personal Trainer – Breaking Muscle
    February 7, 2025
  • Healthcare
    HealthcareShow More
    what’s-so,-um,-great-about-the-world’s-greatest-stretch?
    What’s So, Um, Great About the World’s Greatest Stretch?
    June 19, 2025
    what-kind-of-workout-should-you-try?
    What Kind of Workout Should You Try?
    June 17, 2025
    a-weighted-vest-is-the-easiest-way-to-upgrade-your-daily-walks
    A Weighted Vest is the Easiest Way to Upgrade Your Daily Walks
    June 16, 2025
    3-push-up-modifications-to-try-if-you-can’t-yet-get-a-full-one
    3 Push-Up Modifications to Try If You Can’t Yet Get a Full One
    June 16, 2025
    we’ve-tried-hundreds-of-black-leggings—these-reign-supreme
    We’ve Tried Hundreds of Black Leggings—These Reign Supreme
    June 13, 2025
  • Lifestyle
    LifestyleShow More
    how-targeted-volume-training-solves-training-dysfunction-for-real,-lasting-results
    How Targeted Volume Training Solves Training Dysfunction for Real, Lasting Results
    June 6, 2025
    proximamente-el-10-de-junio-:-25-minute-speed-train-de-joel-freeman
    Próximamente el 10 de junio : 25 Minute Speed Train de Joel Freeman
    May 27, 2025
    a-venir-le-10-juin-:-25-minute-speed-train-de-joel-freeman
    À venir le 10 juin : 25 Minute Speed Train de Joel Freeman
    May 27, 2025
    coming-june-10th:-25-minute-speed-train-by-joel-freeman
    Coming June 10th: 25 Minute Speed Train by Joel Freeman
    May 27, 2025
    introducing-the-bodi-experience-community:-a-new-way-to-connect,-stay-motivated,-and-thrive
    Introducing the BODi Experience Community: A New Way to Connect, Stay Motivated, and Thrive
    May 19, 2025
  • Nutrition
    NutritionShow More
    do-probiotics-help-you-lose-weight?-find-out-now
    Do Probiotics Help You Lose Weight? Find Out Now
    May 9, 2025
    how-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-glp-1s:-a-conversation-guide
    How To Talk To Your Doctor About GLP-1s: A Conversation Guide
    May 8, 2025
    fat-burning-supplements-for-men:-hype-or-effective-solution?
    Fat Burning Supplements For Men: Hype Or Effective Solution?
    May 8, 2025
    body-fat-scale:-are-smart-scales-the-smarter-way-to-measure-health?
    Body Fat Scale: Are Smart Scales The Smarter Way To Measure Health?
    May 7, 2025
    best-snack-for-weight-loss:-smart-choices-for-success
    Best Snack For Weight Loss: Smart Choices For Success
    May 6, 2025
  • Privacy Policy
Reading: Kettlebells vs. Dumbbells: Which Is Better for Your Workouts?
Share
  • Fitness
  • Healthcare
  • Lifestyle
  • Nutrition
  • Privacy Policy
Have an existing account? Sign In
© Foxiz News Network. Ruby Design Company. All Rights Reserved.
Healthy Body Revive > Blog > Lifestyle > Kettlebells vs. Dumbbells: Which Is Better for Your Workouts?
Lifestyle

Kettlebells vs. Dumbbells: Which Is Better for Your Workouts?

Pat Crawley
Last updated: September 16, 2024 5:33 pm
Pat Crawley
Share
10 Min Read
kettlebells-vs.-dumbbells:-which-is-better-for-your-workouts?
SHARE

You might think that in the battle of kettlebell vs dumbbell, the latter holds the edge. After all, you’ll see rows and rows of dumbbells in most commercial gyms, while a smaller selection of kettlebells is often tucked away in a corner.

However, you’re better off utilizing one over the other depending on your workout and goals. Each one has its advantages, so we’ll help pinpoint the right tool for you.

What’s the Difference Between a Kettlebell and Dumbbell?

Kettlebell, Dumbbell, and Jumprope on floor | kettlebell vs dumbbell

“The main difference between dumbbells and kettlebells is the shape of the implement,” says Jake Harcoff, MS, CSCS, head coach and owner of AIM Athletic.

Dumbbells consist of a short bar with weight at both ends, whereas kettlebells resemble a cannonball with a handle. This difference changes the weight distribution of each tool, which affects how you use them.

“When you hold a dumbbell in your hand, the center of mass is in the middle of your palm, between the two ends of the weight,” says Marvin Nixon, MS, an ACE-certified personal trainer. But when you hold a kettlebell by the handle, the center of mass is in the large part of the bell, which is usually below your palm.

“When you lift the kettlebell, this center of mass moves based on the speed of the movement and how the bell moves around your hands. This small change alters how our muscles, fascia, and even nervous system adapt to the movement being performed,” Nixon says.

Can You Use Kettlebells Instead of Dumbbells?

There are ideal uses for each tool, but generally, kettlebells and dumbbells are interchangeable. Chances are exercises will simply feel different with a kettlebell vs. a dumbbell. Some exercises may even feel more challenging.

Take the dumbbell shoulder press exercise as an example. When you press the dumbbell overhead, the weight is centered in your palm. But swap that dumbbell for a kettlebell and the weight is concentrated below your palm, on the outside of your wrist and forearm. Because of this shift, your body may find the kettlebell tougher to move, Nixon says.

That said, some people find kettlebells more comfortable than dumbbells for certain exercises. “I have worked with people who find holding a dumbbell for goblet squats hard on their wrists, but experience no pain when holding a kettlebell by the horns in the same position,” Harcoff says.

Man Does Overhead Press | kettlebell vs dumbbell

Dumbbells are typically a better choice for hypertrophy (muscle-building) workouts, as well as certain strength exercises.

For starters, many people find dumbbells easier to grip. “My clients tend to find dumbbells more comfortable for pressing exercises because it’s easier to maintain a neutral wrist position, where your wrist stays straight,” says Katie Prendergast, a NASM-certified personal trainer in Denver, Colorado.

Kettlebells, on the other hand, tend to pull the wrist backward because of their weight distribution.

In addition, dumbbells are often easier to maneuver for traditional bodybuilding moves, or exercises that zero in on specific muscle groups, such as triceps extensions, biceps curls, lateral raises, and chest flys, Prendergast notes.

Best Workouts for Kettlebells

Woman Does Kettlebell Swings | kettlebell vs dumbbell

With their center of gravity located below the handle, kettlebells are perfect for quick, explosive movements like swings, cleans, and snatches. These types of exercises will help you work up a sweat in no time at all. So if you’re looking for non-traditional cardio options, or you have a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout on your schedule, kettlebells are the way to go, according to Harcoff.

If you’re new to kettlebell workouts, Kettlebell Academy with Amoila Cesar will teach you the fundamentals of kettlebell training, focusing on drills for swings, cleans, and snatches. With three workout videos dedicated to each exercise, you’ll progress your skills and master each move.

As you’ll see in the program, you can then use these movements to easily transition from one exercise to the next. This way, you can keep your motions fast and fluid, which keeps the intensity high.

For example, if you’re doing unilateral (single-side) exercises, you could use the one-arm clean to get the kettlebell into position before launching into the offset squat. To increase the intensity, do a one-arm clean in between each squat rep. Then, when you’re ready to tackle the other side, use the one-arm swing to transfer the kettlebell from one hand to the other.

Which One Should I Use?

Those looking to build muscle and/or strength will likely do better with dumbbells, as these make it easier to perform traditional strength-training exercises, Prendergast says.

Meanwhile, people who prefer to focus on conditioning and calorie burning will appreciate kettlebell workouts. “They’re a great option for someone who doesn’t like running or other forms of cardio,” Prendergast says.

However, there’s no reason you can’t use kettlebells and dumbbells. “I often suggest that clients include a mix of kettlebells and dumbbells in their strength program,” Nixon says. Each training tool challenges your body in unique ways, which can ultimately make you a stronger, more well-rounded athlete.

Plus, trying out a new piece of equipment can give your routine a much-needed refresh, Harcoff says.

Where to Buy Kettlebells and Dumbbells

You can get your hands on dumbbells or kettlebells via many different vendors. Note that dumbbells are sold as a pair, whereas kettlebells typically come in singles.

That said, there are many adjustable weights and kettlebells on the market, which save you space and money.

1. Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells

Bowflex Dumbbells | kettlebell vs dumbbell

Weight: 5 to 52.5 pounds (2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds; 5-pound increments from 25 to 52.5 pounds)

This set of Bowflex dumbbells allows you to easily adjust the weight with a simple turn of the dial. It replaces 15 sets of weights so you save space but still have the ability to keep making strength gains.

Get them on Amazon.

2. CAP Barbell Rubber Coated Hex Dumbbell Set

CAP Dumbbells | kettlebell vs dumbbell

Weight: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 pounds

If you’re looking to do more accessory work at home, or if you just need some lighter dumbbells for specific types of training, this set is perfect for you. The rubber coating can reduce damage to equipment and flooring, and the handles include non-slip knurling for extra safety.

Get it on Amazon.

3. PowerBlock Sport EXP 5-50 Stage 1 Set

Powerblock Dumbbell | kettlebell vs dumbbell

Weight: 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 15, 17.5, 20, 25, 27.5, 30, 35, 37.5, 40, 45, 47.5, 50 pounds

This set of adjustable dumbbells from PowerBlock replaces 16 sets of dumbbells and offers up to 50 pounds of weight per hand. And with two add-ons, you can get all the way up to 70 or 90 pounds per hand.

Get it at PowerBlock.

4. REP FITNESS Kettlebells

Rep Fitness Kettlebells | kettlebell vs dumbbell

Weight: 17, 26, 35, 44, 53 pounds

REP FITNESS’ kettlebells are finished with premium textured matte to ensure no slipping or corrosion over time. They also have flat bottoms, which make them convenient to store and easy to use for exercises like push-ups, deadlifts, and renegade rows.

Get them on Amazon.

5. Bowflex SelectTech Kettlebell

Bowflex Kettlebell | kettlebell vs dumbbell

Weight: 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, 40 pounds

Replace six kettlebells with one space-saving device with this adjustable kettlebell from Bowflex. It also features an ergonomic handle for a more comfortable grip during exercise.

Get it on Amazon.

6. Kettlebell Kings Competition Kettlebell

Kettlebell Kings | kettlebell vs dumbbell

Weight: 18 lbs to 106 lbs

Just like Olympic weight plates, Kettlebell Kings’ competition kettlebells are all the same size, from their 18-pound bells to their 106-pound bells. They’re made of steel and have a 35-mm handle, which is the standard in international competitions.

Get them on Kettlebell Kings.

You Might Also Like

What’s So, Um, Great About the World’s Greatest Stretch?

What Kind of Workout Should You Try?

A Weighted Vest is the Easiest Way to Upgrade Your Daily Walks

3 Push-Up Modifications to Try If You Can’t Yet Get a Full One

We’ve Tried Hundreds of Black Leggings—These Reign Supreme

TAGGED:FitnessFitness Gearresistance trainingStrength Trainingweight liftingworkout gear
Share This Article
Facebook Twitter Email Print
Leave a comment Leave a comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New Releases

- Advertisement -
Ad image

Trending Stories

30-30-30-rule-for-weight-loss:-healhifyme
Nutrition

30 30 30 Rule For Weight Loss: HealhifyMe

March 26, 2024
corporate-wellness-program-benefits:-game-changing-advantages-for-your-business
Nutrition

Corporate Wellness Program Benefits: Game-Changing Advantages For Your Business

August 29, 2024
work-your-entire-backside-with-the-kettlebell-swing
Lifestyle

Work Your Entire Backside With the Kettlebell Swing

April 10, 2024
there-are-a-ton-of-great-sneaker-deals-on-amazon
Healthcare

There Are a Ton of Great Sneaker Deals on Amazon

July 17, 2024
step-workouts-are-suddenly-cool-again—and-the-benefits-go-way-beyond-cardio
Healthcare

Step Workouts Are Suddenly Cool Again—And the Benefits Go Way Beyond Cardio

June 3, 2024
what’s-better-for-your-butt:-squats-or-deadlifts?
Healthcare

What’s Better for Your Butt: Squats or Deadlifts?

June 4, 2025

Follow US on Social Media

The following Terms and Conditions govern the use of Healthy Body Revive and are in place to protect everyone who uses the website. Health Fuel Zone d.o.o owner of Healthy Body Revive has the right to revise and update these Terms and Conditions at any time without prior notification; therefore, you should visit this page periodically to review these Terms of Use including the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy of our owner Health Fuel Zone d.o.o.

Healthy Body Revive

2024 © Proudly powered by Health Fuel Zone d.o.o. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Lost your password?