Kettlebells for Rehab

Recently I was asked to present at the International Federation for Sports Chiropractors (FICS). It was an honour and privilege to work alongside such a talented and inspiring group of chiropractors.

Some of the key concepts I discussed included – Why should we look at our athletes’ movement and looking beyond isolated strength exercises to more functional and movement based retraining that translates more readily to the sports field. Of course we spent some time having some fun with the kettlebells and power bands.  Kettlebells for rehab are a great tool. As a certified kettlebell instructor, I have taught a lot of people how to use kettlebells, and I’m happy to say the sports chiropractors did very well.

So why do I use and promote the use of kettlebells for rehab?

Firstly, I’ll say this to clear it up. Kettlebells are by no means the only tool or the best tool for every job. There are plenty of wonderful gadgets and do-dads that can help patients and athletes just as well or better. But there are two key qualities to the kettlebell that I find very useful.

1. Ballistic Movements – The kettlebells unique design allows the use of ballistic movements like the kettlebell swing. This allows development of postural strength and control. It also offers unique loading to the low back which may be helpful to people with low back pain and it develops speed, power, and postural stability.
2. Off-center loading – The unusual shape of the kettlebell means that the weight not only provides an axial compression, but also a sideways or lateral torque. This makes it relatively unstable compared with more traditional weights like the dumbbell. Unstable loads have been shown to improve activation in key stabilising muscles which is very important when retraining and reintegrating movement.

If you want to know if kettlebells are right for you, get in touch and make a time to see your Sydney Sports Chiropractor. HERE