Conquering the Beast: A Comprehensive Guide to 48kg Kettlebells
by Drew Griffiths (BSc, MSc) – 30 years training experience, First Class Degree in Sport Science from Loughborough University, Master’s Degree in Exercise & Nutrition Science from the University of Liverpool.
Disclaimer – Exercise at your own risk – 48kg is a heavy kettlebell!
I’m currently looking to upgrade my makeshift 44kg kettlebell – it’s a 40kg kettlebell with 2 x 2kg weight plates duct taped to it; so I thought I’d try and make the process, into a very niche blog post.
As you can see, my current kettlebell is quite rubbish:
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Drew Griffiths (@fitnessdaduk)
If you are in the UK like me, then the 2 best value for money are:
Factory weights and METIS
Here’s a nice image of the METIS kettlebell:
There’s hardly any companies that supply the 48kg version – at the time of writing the METIS one is £119.99, Factory weights is £119 but sold out.
In my experience, the main thing to look for in a kettlebell – is that it’s single cast, rather than having the handle welded on.
Also, you want a decent, sensibly sized handle, and of course the kettlebell should be balanced equally so it’s easy to hold in various positions.
Extra 48kg Kettlebell Info
The 48kg kettlebell, which is often referred to by Cross Fitters as “The Beast,” sits upon the iron throne of kettlebell weights (reference to Game of Thrones there).
It’s a symbol of strength, resilience, and athletic prowess, reserved for the dedicated few who dare to challenge its reign. Well not really – it’s a heavy fQcker though, and generally regarded as an advanced weight to use.
It’s intermediate level of weight if you are doing deadlifts with it, but for most other exercises, including any presses and Olympic style lifts, it’s very heavy.
So be careful if you’ve not lifted it before!
Strength Beyond Measure:
Build strength and power with this beast bastard. The most obvious perk of the 48kg kettlebell is the monumental strength gains it can help to create.
Mastering exercises like swings, cleans, presses, and squats with this weight translates to improved overall strength, power, and athleticism. Imagine effortlessly picking up heavy objects, performing explosive sprints, or conquering challenging hikes – the 48kg kettlebell prepares you for all of this and more.
Using it for swings, will make your whole body work in order to stabilise it – so be very careful! It’s easy to injure your back and very hard to recover from.
Beyond Brute Force: Building Resilience and Control:
While strength reigns supreme, the 48kg kettlebell fosters more than just raw power. It’s a right bugger to control the 48kg kettlebell swing for example, on the way up and down.
A Challenge Worthy of Its Nickname:
Undoubtedly, the 48kg kettlebell presents a significant challenge to almost anyone. It demands dedication, patience, and a solid foundation in kettlebell training. Anyone able to press this kettlebell in any form, for example, is a strong MFer.
Training Considerations for the Dedicated:
To safely and effectively conquer the 48kg kettlebell, a well-structured training programme is essential. Prioritize proper form with lighter weights. Make sure to build up slowly to this weight.
Stories of the Beast:
Many inspiring individuals have tamed the Beast. For example, Veteran kettlebell instructors such as Russian dude Pavel Tsatsouline and America’s own Steve Maxwell demonstrate its use for building functional strength, power and athleticism.
The Final Swing:
The 48kg kettlebell isn’t for everyone, because it’s so bloody heavy.
Remember to warm up properly and build up over months (if not years) before attempting to lift this weight.
