I really like the way this book breaks down the steps of each exercise, making it easier to understand the more complicated moves. The steps are numbered and you can follow along with the pictures. Great pictures. This is a worthwhile book to get if you are beginning to train with kettlebells or just want to fine tune some of the movements.

I've been a powerlifter for many years (use dumbbells occasionally too) and recently have become interested in kettlebells and how they work the body uniquely. This handbook is small, sturdy, and handy (fits easily into your workout bag) and is a thorough and excellent introduction to kettlebell exercising. I found that it describes the basic movements and forms in reasonable detail and also provides useful programs and suggestions for the KB beginner. If you'd like to learn quite a bit more about kettlebells this is definitely a worthwhile purchase, and my personal copy is going into the much-used library in our gym.

I've never worked out in my life. I've never belonged to a health or fitness club. I have trouble making myself do a few push-ups every morning (though I do like to hike and bicycle pretty strenuously). I thought the kettlebells sounded like fun and I was intrigued by the more well-rounded and BRIEF-but-effective workout they offered. Like the toothpaste commercial used to say, "If it tastes good, maybe he'll brush a little longer!" Yep. I love these things! Don't be put off by the low number of pages. Yes, it is basically a small stapled booklet. But this is definitely a case of quality over quantity. Especially for someone who's never had the opportunity to work with a trainer or workout coach, the introductory pages are very helpful. I liked the emphasis on understanding and using all your muscles. It is a very holistic approach. The graphics are the clearest instructions I have ever seen in an instructional book. The full-color photographs are sharp. One caution to other novices: This book (and some websites) suggest the the "average man" start out with a set of kettlebells weighing 35, 50 and 70 pounds. What a laugh! (or embarrassment). I am 6' 3" and in pretty good shape and I found a seventeen-pound ball quite challenging enough, thank you. Fortunately, I erred on the cautious side when ordering my balls (no jokes, please). My HEAVIEST ONE is 26 lbs. and will take me a while to work up to.