I see a lot of other kettlebell trainers and enthusiasts on here working out with double bells of the same weight. Honestly, I'm a little envious! However, I don't have the cash to spend on two kettlebells of equal weight. So, I like to get creative and integrate mixed weights into my workouts from time to time.

If you're looking to get in shape, lose weight, or build muscle you basically have two options. Become a member of a local gym or invest money in a home gym. The former doesn't generally cost too much money upfront. However, you actually need to make use of the membership and take some time out of your busy schedule to get your money's worth. The latter can not only get expensive quickly, but there's also the problem of where to put all of the equipment.

Now that I've lost a considerable amount of weight, my fitness goals have started to shift. I've been focusing on building strength and muscle, however, there are several other areas which need improvement as well. Flexibility, range of motion, and of course stability and balance. I consider these to be finesse attributes that often get overlooked. Although, the two exercises I'll be discussing will also help to build strength. Specifically in the legs.

Recently, after 6 months of working out with a 35 lb. kettlebell, I purchased a new 45 lb. kettlebell to further challenge myself. I knew it wouldn't be an easy adjustment, however, I didn't realize just how difficult it would be. Obviously, the more weight that is added, the harder my muscles would need to work in order to execute various kettlebell exercises properly. This wasn't a surprise, although, I hadn't considered other factors besides the increase in weight. I'm still excited about performing at a higher level, it's just that I'll need to change my approach and expectations as I continue to build strength with my new kettlebell.

Anyone who follows Jillian on Instagram probably knows how she loves to use kettlebells as an anchor point. This time she mixes up both competition kettlebells with lighter traditional-styled ones. It's not a strenuous workout by any means, but it will keep you on your toes for sure! That's the beauty of kettlebells, you can target so many areas of fitness. It doesn't have to be just about strength and power.

It's that time of year again when athletes compete in various events to claim the title of fittest in the world. Competitors will have a tough time dethroning 3-time CrossFit Games Champion Mat Fraser. After the first day's events, the reigning champ is 24 points ahead of 2nd place fellow American Noah Ohlsen. What's truly amazing is that both of these gentlemen are 5'7", the same height as me. That proves the point that one does not have to be a giant mound of mass to find success.