I have no idea who coined it, but the appropriately named monster kettlebell should only be used by serious lifters. While there is no set definition, it’s assumed that any kettlebell weighing over 100 lbs. fits that description. Unless you’re Hercules, exercises that require the kettlebell to be lifted overhead are near impossible. Typically, exercises with monster kettlebells include squats, rows, and deadlifts.
It’s hard to admit, but I don’t ever see myself reaching that level. It’s taken me a year to work up to a 35 lb. kettlebell and be comfortable with that. Eventually, I expect to get to 53 lbs. Anything after that would be a bonus. Then again, my goal is to lose weight. I don’t need to be lifting weights that heavy.
Still, knowing how difficult my progression has been, it’s amazing to watch some of these powerlifters. People who’ve never used kettlebells might scoff at the low reps. However, even 10 swings at 100+ lbs. requires a great deal of strength. Then there is the whole risk of injury factor. The heavier the kettlebell, the higher the chance of something bad happening if you lose your grip. I definitely think there’s a mental aspect involved with lifting heavier-sized kettlebells.
If you’d like to see some of these monster kettlebells in action check out my review page. Sam Escobar, an experienced monster kettlebell lifter, is making some great strides with his 150 lb. kettlebell. For more of a workout-oriented example, Marcus Filly and Eric Leija team up for an intense demonstration. Each of them doing various moves with a 126 lb. kettlebell that looks exhausting!
