Kettlebells are reinventing the fitness industry by providing strength and conditioning exercises that work.
Our article, The Top 5 Kettlebell Exercises You Should Master, takes you through the deadlift, two-arm swing, farmer’s walk, squat, and press giving you a solid foundation to begin your journey to become a kettlebell master.
In addition to our articles, there are many books available to develop your kettlebell knowledge even further.
Whether you want to master the kettlebell or you are just beginning to understand its dramatic effects on your body, there is a kettlebell training book for you.
Where can you get these books? Which books are the best to teach you about kettlebell training? We researched the best kettlebell training books on the market which are all available on Amazon.
Because we’re so awesome here at The Fitness Tribe, we wanted to share more kettlebell knowledge with you.
Kettlebell training is extensive and while there is so much to learn, we have you covered.
Why do I need a Kettlebell Training Book?
Well, it’s simple. Learning from elite trainers is how you become a kettlebell master, avoid injury, and make your workouts more effective.
Plus, the training books are written by some of the kettlebell icons, like founder Pavel Tsatsouline, whose motto on why he wrote another book is “never leave well enough alone.”
Reading and learning a craft from those who have mastered it furthers your education and promotes a higher level of fitness for yourself.
For fitness instructors, knowledge is everything. If your customers know that you are learning from the best kettlebell books, they will understand that you are well-read and trust your kettlebell knowledge.
This will entice more customers to your training sessions because they will realize you are teaching techniques you have learned from the best kettlebell trainers in the business.
Because times are difficult, many people do not have the means to visit a gym to work with a fitness trainer right now. The benefit of kettlebell training books is that your trainer is at your fingertips in just over a couple of hundred pages.
Most of the books go step-by-step on movements, like the kettlebell swing, explaining the muscles working behind each move. By the time you get a personal trainer, you will have mastered the kettlebell!
Are Kettlebell Training Books available on Kindle?
Got a Kindle? Awesome! All of these books are available on Amazon and have a Kindle purchasing option. A bonus? The Kindle version is always cheaper allowing you to save your money for some new kettlebells to perfect your training.
Kettlebell Studies Galore
Before we dig into the best kettlebell books, we thought we would show you some relevant studies that prove kettlebells are for everyone.
The benefits of kettlebell training were researched for years ever since kettlebell founder, Pavel Tsatsouline, introduced it back in 1998.
Journals and doctors have performed studies on a variety of fitness levels and age groups to record the benefits. Let’s show you what they found.
Effect of Kettlebells for High School Aged Kids
Kettlebell training isn’t only for adults. The proof came in a study conducted in Russia, where kettlebells originated.
The researchers were curious why high school students did not have the strength and conditioning that they should at that age. By introducing kettlebell exercises three days per week to kids aged 16-17, the study found that performance on the kettlebell snatch exercise increased by almost 10% after only eight weeks.
This experience showed how important kettlebells can be for the younger generation to develop their strength and endurance in sports.
Give it the Old College Try
Similarly, another experiment with college students aged 20-24 found that after twelve weeks of training with kettlebells three times per week, the participants showed a drastic increase in their strength, power, and endurance levels.
The results further illustrated the old training strategies of coaches might not be enough and mastering the kettlebells might be the answer for the future.
A Sarcopenia Saving Grace is Kettlebells
Sarcopenia, a syndrome characterized by the loss of skeletal muscle mass which may result in falls and reduced mobility, can be deadly for our elderly community. Exercise is the prescription for this syndrome and a huge saving grace might be kettlebells.
A study performed on people aged 65-75 who had all been diagnosed with sarcopenia showed that all participants had a significant increase in the sarcopenia index (a blood test that approximates muscle mass).
Furthermore, their back and grip strength increased dramatically as well as their mobility. The study also showed that the effects of kettlebell exercises lasted an additional four weeks after the participants stopped training.
Best Kettlebell Books by Pavel Tsatsouline
Why not learn about kettlebells from the ultimate kettlebell master, Pavel Tsatsouline? This kettlebell founding father introduced the West to the phenomenon back in 1998.
Since then, he has revamped the training industry and authored multiple books. Let’s check out two of his books that we recommend as some of the best kettlebell training books out there.
1. Kettlebell Simple and Sinister – 2nd Edition
First of all, the title alone grabs your attention and begs for more. Are we right? This 120-page training book is the second edition that lives up to its predecessor in a dynamic way.
Pavel thought a second edition would propel more people to further their knowledge of the dynamic kettlebell exercises.
From the swing to the turkish get-ups, you’ll learn different movements that challenge you to reach your workout goals.
Pavel wanted to promote easy learning that enabled people of all different ages and backgrounds to try kettlebells and be successful.
Well done Mr. Tsatsouline!
Pros
- Comprehensive information on kettlebell training
- Very easy to follow with simple instructions
- A kettlebell and the book are the only requirements
Cons
- Only a few kettlebell movements are taught
- Some information included is unnecessary
Kettlebell Simple & Sinister
Six years after the publication of the original S&S people are still getting great results from the program and the book has never left the Amazon weight training best-seller list. So why another edition? Pavel answers with a quote from a novel: You know our motto: "We never let well enough alone." This is Kettlebell Simple & Sinister: Revised & Updated Edition or simply S&S 2.0. Learn how to use the extreme hand-held gym from the man who started the kettlebell revolution.
- Simple & Sinister will forge a fighter's physique because the form must follow the function.
- Simple & Sinister will give you the strength, the stamina, and the suppleness to play any sport recreationally and play it well.
2. Enter the Kettlebell : Strength Secret of a Soviet Superman
A Dragondoor product, this book proves that anyone can master the kettlebell and tremendously improve their strength and conditioning.
Pavel introduces the basics in incredible detail so you can learn kettlebell exercises and get the strength results you desire.
One review even describes this book as a “cult classic.” Once again, Pavel’s format of keeping things simple wins the race.
Pros
- Introduces basics like the swing and allows you to advance quickly
- Includes five main exercises and two core workout programs
- Very detailed
Cons
- Instructions for the “get-up,” a popular kettlebell exercise, are lacking
- Some readers wanted more than five movements shown
Enter The Kettlebell Strength Secret of the Soviet Supermen
With Enter the Kettlebell! Pavel delivers a significant upgrade to his original landmark work, The Russian Kettlebell Challenge. Drawing on five years of developing and leading the world's first and premiere kettlebell instructor certification program, and after spending five years of additional research into what really works for dramatic results with the kettlebell-we have Enter the Kettlebell!Pavel lays out a foolproof master system that guarantees you success-if you simply follow the commands! .
- The New RKC Program MinimumWith just two kettlebell exercises
- The RKC Rite of Passage Jumps you to the next level of physical excellence with Pavel's proven RKC formula for exceptional strength and conditioning
More Awesome Kettlebell Books
Now that we’ve shown you some books by the kettlebell master, let’s move on to other worthy competitors that are available to read.
These books will push your physical fitness to new heights and get you those compliments you deserve.
3. Master the Kettlebell
Another popular Dragondoor book written by Max Shank, a popular kettlebell coach and teacher, is a highly effective training about kettlebell basics and the health benefits of this program.
In “Master the Kettlebell,” Max delves into the long-term benefits of a healthy lifestyle and how to safely practice all of the kettlebell movements.
He corrects mistakes that are often made when performing basic movements like the kettlebell swing and the turkish get-up to promote more effective workouts and prevent injury.
Kettlebell warrior athletes promote power and endurance, all of which are taught in this engaging, dynamic read. By the end, you will have mastered the kettlebell for sure.
Pros
- Great introduction to basic movements
- Great for beginners
- In-depth information
- Teaches the history of kettlebells
Cons
- Directed more towards fitness trainers
- Limited explanation of exercises
Master The Kettlebell
The Kettlebell-Lover’s Primer for Rapid Physical Transformation and Peak Athletic Performance… When Dragon Door originated the modern kettlebell movement in 2001, it was love-at-first-sight for millions of fitness enthusiasts worldwide. This almost magical “gym-in-the-palm-of-your-hand” can deliver spectacular results--be it in strength, conditioning, power or movement quality. The health-strength benefits of vigorous, dedicated, skilled exercise with kettlebells can indeed be off-the-charts. But note the all-important word “skill”. Because without the proper know-how, the kettlebell reverts to just an iron ball with a handle—or to a misused, misunderstood tool that heaps abuse and perhaps injury on its unskilled user. Which is the reason for Master RKC, Max Shank’s Master the Kettlebell
- Kyphotic desk-jockeys see salvation in the end to their back-pain and a renewed vitality
- Both genders appreciate the dramatic toning and firming of butt, thighs and abs
4. Kettlebell Training Fundamentals
Go on a journey with Taco Fleur, an International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation (IKFF) trainer.
Learn what it takes to build a solid foundation in kettlebell exercises. He teaches the clean, press, pull, swing, and more as you dive into the kettlebell basic movements. A bonus is a step-by-step guide on how to perform the moves safely and effectively.
In only 147 pages, you will be hooked on kettlebells and feel like the warrior you are!
Pros
- Great training for beginners and advanced kettlebell warriors
- Easy, fun read
- Lots of detailed information on proper techniques
- Simple instruction
Cons
- Makes some assumptions about the reader’s experience with kettlebells
- Photos aren’t great
Kettlebell Training Fundamentals
If you're looking to get into kettlebell training then there is no better book than Kettlebell Training Fundamentals, one of the best books for kettlebell training beginners to pick up and lay the proper foundations for a lifelong kettlebell journey. If you want to progress in kettlebell training then you need to master the basics, these are the basics of kettlebell training and they take you step-by-step to where you want to be, performing the fundamentals movements of kettlebell training safely and effectively. This book contains very detailed photos, links to bonus videos, and step by step instructions. Everything you need to learn kettlebell training, or how to teach others. If you've never touched a kettlebell before, or have been working with one and just not progressing, this is your book. If you've been taught some kettlebell exercises but aren't sure if it's right, and/or you're experiencing bruising, calluses, ripped hands, elbow pain, etc. this is YOUR book.
- Great training for beginners and advanced kettlebell warriors
- Easy, fun read
- Lots of detailed information on proper techniques
- Simple instruction
5. Kettlebell Workouts and Challenges 1.0
Taco Fleur strikes again with this classic kettlebell training book that goes deeper into the fitness phenomenon of kettlebells.
In this book, you will learn a range of different workouts and kettlebell movements that are designed for anyone from a beginner to an experienced kettlebell warrior.
One review stated how much they enjoyed learning more movements beyond the swing and turkish get-up.
Taco’s passion shines through in the epic challenges that will have everyone reaching for their kettlebells.
Pros
- Full of challenging and in-depth workouts
- Includes workout of the day (WOD) for every range of experience
- Offers various programs
- Great addition to his other book, “Kettlebell Training Fundamentals”
Cons
- Doesn’t explain technique enough
- Text is too small in the paperback version
Kettlebell Workouts and Challenges 1.0
The book is about kettlebell workouts, this is different to buying a book on kettlebell training technique, even though I cover a lot of important points about technique and execution, it's impossible to cover the same amount of detail in a workout book as I do in a technique book. Therefore I highly recommend getting the book Kettlebell Training Fundamentals if you're new to kettlebells, and if you're after technique then get the Kettlebell Exercise Encyclopedia. With that said, I do include several chapters for beginners to learn the basics of kettlebell training.
- Beginners to advanced kettlebell workouts.
- Includes finer details on many of the kettlebell exercises.
6. Kettlebell Rx: The Complete Guide for Athletes and Coaches
If you are looking for a kettlebell book that gives you hundreds of kettlebell exercises while always focusing on the technique behind them, you need to read this one.
The author, Jeff Martone, is a world-renowned kettlebell coach certified in Dragondoor RKC. His expertise in all things kettlebell helps the reader learn the proper technique required to build effective results in your body.
He discusses common errors that people make and ways to correct them for an all-around better workout.
Pros
- Clear instructions
- Lots of detailed illustrations
- Great for kettlebell sport athletes
- Lists common mistakes
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Amount of information can seem overwhelming
- Doesn’t include more advanced movements
Kettlebell Rx: The Complete Guide for Athletes and Coaches
In Kettlebell Rx, CrossFit certification instructor and world-renowned Kettlebell coach Jeff Martone teaches you how to toughen-up your body, develop unbelievable conditioning and stamina, and acquire a chiseled physique by wielding the ball of iron known as the kettlebell. Drawing on his world-wide research and the thousands of classes he has taught to athletes around the world, he breaks down kettlebell training like never before.
- Lots of detailed illustrations
- Great for kettlebell sport athletes
7. The Ultimate Kettlebells Workbook: The Revolutionary Program to Tone, Sculpt, and Strengthen Your Whole Body
Dave Randolph, a kettlebell veteran since 2002, teaches over 100 different kettlebell exercises in his book, “The Ultimate Kettlebell Workbook.”
This book proves to be an excellent resource for anyone looking to enhance their bodies with personalized workouts that are effective and easy to learn.
Dave leads you through different movements that help you learn how to put your workout together. Through his training, you will be a kettlebell warrior in no time!
Pros
- Includes ten workouts for beginners and advanced athletes
- Information on how to develop your program
- Helpful explanations with photos
- Great for personalizing your training
Cons
- Not suitable for those looking for a set program to be given to them
- Lacks advanced movements
The Ultimate Kettlebells Workbook
Whether you’re looking to get in better shape, enhance your strength training or challenge yourself with the ultimate high-intensity workout, kettlebells are the perfect tool to get the body you want with less time in the gym. With over 300 step-by-step photos, this book illustrates over 100 kettlebell exercises
- Enhancing balance and coordination
- Increasing hand and foot speed
Best Kettlebell Books for Beginners
Now don’t start stressing if you are a beginner when it comes to kettlebells. We all started somewhere and were beginners once. But what books are the best if you are a beginner? Keep on reading to find out.
The two Dragondoor books are excellent when it comes to learning kettlebells especially if you are a beginner.
In “Enter the Kettlebell,” Pavel explores the basic movements in such detail it leads beginners to immediate success. Similarly, Max does the same by providing very in-depth information for the basic movements in “Master the Kettlebell.”
Both books do an excellent job of keeping beginners in mind with their level of detail and breaking down the kettlebell movements. Grab either one if you are just getting started with kettlebells.
Beyond that, the list of common mistakes allows the reader to avoid them immediately which will make workouts more effective. Another fabulous book for a beginner!
Whether you are a beginner or advanced, get to reading and master the kettlebell. Your success is just a few pages away!
“Kettlebell Rx” is also highly recommended for beginners. The detailed description of movements along with clear instructions on how to perform them brings success to anyone new to kettlebells.
Kettlebell 10 Week Program - Hybrid Athlete
Kettlebell 10 Weeks Program
This program contains our famous Kettlebell 1.0 and 2.0 programs. It will take you on a journey from beginner to intermediate or advanced in a period of 10 weeks, using only one or two kettlebells.
- Skill level: Beginner and Intermediate
- Format: PDF
- 10-week program: 3 workouts each week for the first 4 weeks, then 4 workouts each week for the last 6 weeks
- Workouts vary in length from 25-60 minutes
- Requires at least one kettlebell in the range of 15lb to 25lb. It can be helpful to have two kettlebells, one lighter and one heavier for different exercises. A yoga or exercise mat is also recommended
- Free Bonus: Intro to Nutrition and Healthy Eating
- Links to video explanations for individual exercises.
- Mobile and Desktop versions available
- Printable PDF workout calendar
Kristen holds a bachelors in English from Louisianna university. With a longstanding passion for fitness, she owns and operate her own gym and is a certified jazzercise instructor.