Make Your Own Kettlebell
Sometimes, you want to work out with your Kettlebells, but you aren’t home, or near a gym. You might be travelling or staying with a friend, and now get that itch to swing a Bell! What to do?
Well, you can absolutely create a makeshift Kettlebell using common household items. While it won't perfectly mimic a Kettlebell's dynamics, it can serve as a functional substitute for many exercises. Here are a few options:
1. Backpack or Duffle Bag Kettlebell:
- Materials: A sturdy backpack or duffle bag, and fillers like books, water bottles, sandbags, or laundry detergent bottles.
- How to Make:
- Fill the bag with your chosen weights. Ensure the weight is centered and the bag is not overstuffed.
- Zip the bag securely. If it has a top handle, you can use that as the Kettlebell handle.
- For a backpack, you might want to reinforce the top handle with duct tape for extra strength.
- Usage Tips:
- When using, grip the top handle firmly.
- Start with lighter weights and increase gradually.
- Be aware of the bag's balance; it might shift during movements.
2. Water Jug Kettlebell:
- Materials: A large water jug with a handle (like those for distilled or spring water).
- How to Make:
- Simply use the water jug as it is. Adjust the water level for different weights.
- Usage Tips:
- Ensure the lid is tightly secured to prevent spills.
- Grip the handle firmly during exercises.
- The shape is different from a traditional Kettlebell, so expect some variation in the balance and feel during exercises.
3. Laundry Detergent Kettlebell:
- Materials: A large, full laundry detergent bottle with a handle.
- How to Make:
- Use the bottle as is, adjusting the content for desired weight.
- Usage Tips:
- Ensure the cap is tightly closed.
- The handle on these bottles can be ideal for single-handed exercises.
4. Bucket Handle Kettlebell:
- Materials: A bucket with a strong handle, and a filling such as sand, rocks, or water.
- How to Make:
- Fill the bucket to the desired weight.
- Secure the contents so they don’t shift too much (using bags or towels).
- Usage Tips:
- Be cautious of the bucket’s swinging motion; it will likely be more pronounced than a traditional Kettlebell.
5. Homemade Concrete Kettlebell (Advanced):
- Materials: A mold (like an old basketball cut in half), concrete mix, a sturdy handle (like a thick rope or a bent metal pipe).
- How to Make:
- Mix the concrete and pour it into the mold.
- Place the handle in the center and let the concrete cure.
- Once set, remove the mold.
- Usage Tips:
- This option is more permanent and heavy.
- The weight is fixed, and the concrete Kettlebell is less forgiving on floors and feet.
General Safety Tips:
- Test the homemade Kettlebell's durability before full use, especially for dynamic movements.
- Be mindful of the balance and weight distribution; homemade versions might not be as stable as commercial Kettlebells.
- Start with lower weights to adjust to the different feel and balance.
- Ensure your workout space is clear of obstacles and has a suitable floor surface.
Remember, while these homemade solutions can be effective, they are not perfect substitutes. They may not allow for the full range of Kettlebell-specific movements due to their shape and weight distribution, but they're great for a home workout in a pinch!
Make your own Kettlebell? Sure, you can! But — be careful what you create!
