Obviously I know the glaring difference which is their shape. But how do they differ in their benefits and drawbacks biomechanically? Is one better than the other for working out? Why would a 10kg kettlebell be a better choice than a 10kg dumbbell?
In: Physics
Ergonomics, some exercises like Jefferson curls are more comfy doing with a kettlebell rathen than a dumbell, walking lunges can be done with both, but once again kettlebells are more comfortable to hold
Kettlebells are good for some conditionning moves like kettlebell snatches and can be tied to your weighted calisthenics belt like a plate. Other than that use dumbells
The kettlebell is more difficult to handle and stabilize because of the distribution of weight and the way you have to hold it. You end up using slightly different movements and using stabilizing muscles more, so very broadly speaking a kettlebell will be better for full-body conditioning and dumbbells for targeting more specific muscles. The difference isn’t big enough to really matter for most people.
Balance. weight distribution. grip comfort. centre of gravity. Dumbbells are better but kettlebells allow a wider range of motion.
It’s all about weight distribution. Their design allows for different movements because of how you hold them. Dumbells are one hand, kettlebells both. For instance you can use dumbbells for curls or a bench press. With kettlebells you can do a kettlebell swing or a goblet squat.
Different movements have different effects depending on which muscles you use and your motion. But you can’t really say one is better than the other, just different. They can be used together for a more balanced workout, again depending on your goals and priorities.
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