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.
In Europe, kettlebells were not used by people to get stronger, but rather to measure grain by weight. In addition, 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.
Haltere | Credit: Portum
Anatomy of Kettlebell
Competition kettlebells are constructed from one piece of steel.
Competition kettlebell handles are generally smoother than cast iron handles. In preparation for lifting, sandpaper is used to roughen the handle surface so that magnesium chalk can be applied.
A Professional Sport
Timeline
1962
Many of the modern rules of kettlebell sport were instituted.
1974
Kettlebell sport or “Girevoy” was declared the ethnic sport of Russia
1985
In 1985 the first National Championship of the U.S.S.R. was held in Lipetsk.
1989
The new 10-minute time limit was introduced
2001
Women were finally included in National level competition.
2001-2002
Relays became a more common inclusion – mainly for entertainment
2010
The first kettlebell sport meet in Canada took place.
2012
Solly lifted at his first competition in Toronto, Ontario
2013
After moving to Nanaimo, Solly competes at the Victoria Kettlebell Classic.
2013
The Nanaimo Kettlebell Club is born
2017
The first Grip Strength Kettlebell Competition.
The lifts
Competition Events and Durations
International Kettlebell Divisions
Junior, Amateur, and Professional designations are particular to World level competition and do not necessarily reflect the age or experience level of lifters at the local or regional level. Different International Federations have their own kettlebell weight categories and not all are shown here. Master and Veteran categories vary according to age bracket and are not shown here.
