TL;DR
Get one kettlebell you can strict press for 8–12 reps on each side — around 8–12kg (18–26lbs) for beginner men, 6–8kg (13–18lbs) for beginner women, and up to 20kg (44lbs) if you’ve trained before.
For most people, go with a high-quality cast iron bell — durable, versatile, and perfect for 90% of kettlebell fitness (swings, presses, complexes, flows, even CrossFit-style workouts). If you’re training specifically for kettlebell sport or juggling, then a competition bell makes sense. Expect to pay €40–€120 for something solid that’ll last for years.
Avoid adjustables unless you enjoy clanking, bad form, and regret. You don’t need gloves, belts, or fancy gear — just your bell, some grit, and a floor. One bell. One body. Let’s go.
P.S.: I am currently using competition bells (the colorfull big bells) but from a feedback from 10k+ users in the KBMH app I found that most people, especially beginners, prefer Cast Iron bells, and tbh lately I’m thinking about getting myself a Cast iron Kettlebell as well.
What Kettlebell Weight Should I Choose?
Most people screw this up. They either go too light (afraid of injury, chasing “tone”), or too heavy (and the bell just gathers dust).
Here’s the sweet spot: pick a kettlebell you can strict press 8–12 times.
That usually means:
Men
Beginners: 8–12kg (18–26lbs)
With gym experience: 12–20kg (26–44lbs)
Women
Beginners: 6–8kg (13–18lbs)
With gym experience: 8–14kg (18–30lbs)
This isn’t about ego. Can’t press it 8 times? Too heavy. Can press it 20 times like it’s air? Too light.
And yes — one kettlebell is enough to destroy your entire body: legs, glutes, back, shoulders, arms, core, grip, lungs. Don’t underestimate it. One bell. One body. Infinite pain (the good kind).
What Type of Kettlebell Should I Buy?
You’ve probably seen all kinds online — matte, shiny, neon, monkey-faced, “adjustable Transformers.” Ignore the gimmicks. You only need to think about three types.
Cast Iron Kettlebell (My Recommendation for kettlebell fitness)
The classic cannonball with a handle. Perfect for home fitness, flows, complexes, hardstyle, and CrossFit workouts.
Pros
Cheaper and easier to find
Durable and versatile
Wide handle = more comfortable for swings, goblet thrusters, and two-hand work
Compact size makes it easier to use for presses, cleans, and transitions
Cons
Handle and bell size change as weight increases (a 20kg feels bulkier than an 8kg)
Some cheap versions have bad handles or slippery coating
Verdict
If you’re training for general strength, conditioning, fat loss, or CrossFit-style work, go cast iron. It’s more practical, comfortable, and affordable for everyday fitness.
Competition Kettlebell (Best for Sport/Juggling)
These are the colorful bells you’ve probably seen in my videos. Same size no matter the weight — that’s why they’re used in kettlebell sport.
Pros
Consistent size/handle across all weights (great for long-term technique)
Smooth balance for cleans, snatches, presses
Feels professional (because it is)
Cons
Narrow handle → less comfortable for two-hand swings or goblet-style moves
More expensive than cast iron
Bulkier due to fixed size
Verdict
If you’re into kettlebell sport (long sets, high-rep snatches/cleans) or juggling, this is your bell. For 90% of people just training for fitness — cast iron is better.
Adjustable Kettlebell (Don’t Do It)
The Amazon special. Looks sleek, promises to replace a full set — but in reality? Clunky and frustrating.
Pros
Saves space
One bell, multiple weights (in theory)
Cons
Bad balance and awkward feel
Constantly adjusting kills your workout flow
Clanks, rattles, and doesn’t train grip properly
Verdict
Skip it. Get the real thing.
How Many Kettlebells Should I Start With?
One. That’s it. Not two, not a full rack. One well-chosen bell will keep you busy for a long time.
I only bought my second kettlebell once my 24kg started feeling too light (pressing it for 12+ reps). Until then, one bell wrecked me daily — in a good way. Master one weight. When it feels like a toy, then upgrade.
Do I Need Other Gear?
Nope. That’s the beauty of kettlebell training — minimal by design.
Nice to have
Training mat (if your knees hate hard floors)
Chalk (if sweaty hands bug you)
Towel & water (obvious)
What you don’t need
Gloves, belts, wrist guards, lifting shoes
Barefoot or minimalist shoes are perfect. Build grip, not excuses.
How Much Should I Spend?
Don’t cheap out, but don’t overpay either. A good kettlebell is a one-time purchase that lasts forever.
Expect to pay:
Budget cast iron: €25–40 (OK but inconsistent)
Good cast iron: €40–70 (my main recommendation)
Competition: €60–120 (worth it only if you’re in sport/juggling)
Avoid plastic, vinyl-coated junk, or suspiciously cheap bells with zero reviews. Buy once, cry never.
Pro tip: buy local. These things are heavy — shipping can cost more than the bell itself. Check local suppliers or gyms selling used bells.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a full gym or 10 different weights to get in shape. You need one good kettlebell (cast iron for most people), some floor space, your body, and consistency.
If you want structure, check out my kettlebell workouts app. It’s packed with 200+ free workouts, programs, exercise demos, and built-in timers.
I originally built it to stay consistent myself. Now thousands of people (including my wife) use it every day — which means I keep improving it… partly out of love, partly out of fear 😅.
