How Many Kettlebells Should I Buy

Starting a home gym and wondering how many kettlebells you should buy? This is an essential question for home workouts, as getting it right saves money and space while maximizing your results. The answer isn’t the same for everyone, but with a few simple guidelines, you can build the perfect set for your goals.

Kettlebells are incredibly versatile. A single bell can provide a full-body workout, targeting strength, cardio, and endurance. But having a few different weights will help you progress and avoid plateaus. Let’s break down what you need to consider.

For most people, starting with two or three kettlebells is the sweet spot. This allows you to perform a wide range of exercises effectively. A beginner might start with one, but you’ll quickly need another weight to challenge different movements. Your specific number depends on your training level, goals, and budget.

Key Factors to Consider Before Buying

Don’t just buy a random set. Think about these points first to make a smart investment.

Your Current Fitness Level: Are you new to strength training, or are you an experienced lifter? This determines your starting weight.
Primary Training Goals: Do you want fat loss, muscle building, general fitness, or sport-specific conditioning? Heavy weights build strength, while lighter ones are great for circuits.
Available Space: Kettlebells are dense, but a collection can take up room. Plan where you’ll store them.
Budget: Quality kettlebells are an investment. It’s often better to buy one or two good ones now than a cheap full set that won’t last.

The Beginner’s Guide (Your First 1-2 Kettlebells)

If you’re new to kettlebells, simplicity is key. Start with one or two to learn the fundamental movements safely.

For men new to training, a 16kg (35lb) bell is a common starting point for swings and goblet squats. Women often begin well with an 8kg (18lb) or 12kg (26lb). However, this varies widely based on individual strength. The best test is the swing: you should be able to swing the bell with good form for 10 reps without straining your back.

Option 1 (Minimalist): Buy one ‘medium’ weight you can press once or twice and swing for 10-15 reps. Use it for everything while you master technique.
Option 2 (Recommended Start): Buy two weights. A lighter one (for presses, rows, skill work) and a heavier one (for swings, squats, deadlifts). This combo covers 90% of beginner exercises.

Building a Complete Home Set (3-5 Kettlebells)

Once you’re committed, a small collection allows for balanced, progressive training. This is ideal for someone using kettlebells 2-3 times per week as their primary training tool.

A great three-kettlebell set for a general fitness enthusiast might be: Light (for overhead work), Medium (your workhorse), and Heavy (for lower body and power). For example, a woman might choose 8kg, 12kg, and 16kg. A man might choose 12kg, 16kg, and 24kg.

Adding a fourth and fifth bell fills in the gaps. This lets you make smaller, safer jumps in weight for exercises like the press, where progressing by 4kg is better than 8kg. It also allows partner workouts or complex routines with out having to constantly change plates.

Sample 4-Bell Progression Set

Bell 1: Technique & Overhead (e.g., 8kg)
Bell 2: Primary Press & Circuit Weight (e.g., 12kg)
Bell 3: Workhorse for Swings & Squats (e.g., 16kg)
Bell 4: Heavy Strength & Power (e.g., 20kg)

For the Serious Enthusiast or Home Gym

If kettlebells are your main training method, you might want pairs (duplicates) or a wider range. This enables double kettlebell exercises like double cleans, double front squats, and double presses, which build tremendous strength.

Consider a set of pairs: light pairs for endurance circuits, and heavy pairs for max strength work. Alternatively, a full rack from 8kg to 32kg in 4kg increments offers total flexibility. This is the dream for dedicated home gym, but it requires a significant investment and space.

Choosing the Right Weight for Different Exercises

You won’t use the same weight for every move. Here’s a simple guide:

Swings, Squats, Deadlifts: Heavier. You should be able to maintain perfect form, but the weight should feel challenging.
Cleans, Snatches: Medium. Focus on a explosive technique and a solid rack position before going heavy.
Presses, Overhead Holds: Lighter. The weight should allow a strict, controlled press without arching your back excessively.
Turkish Get-Ups, Windmills: Start very light. Master the movement pattern under total control before adding load.

Adjustable Kettlebells: A Space-Saving Solution

These are a fantastic option for limited space and budget. One adjustable kettlebell can replace 5-6 traditional bells by changing plates inside. They are perfect for home workouts where storage is a concern.

The pros are obvious: cost-effective, space-efficient, and great for progression. The cons can include a larger handle size, a different feel during swings, and a slight delay when changing weight. For many home trainees, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks.

Where to Buy and What to Look For

Always prioritize quality and feel. A good kettlebell has a smooth, consistent handle without seams that can tear your hands. The weight should be accurately marked and balanced.

Material: Cast iron is standard and durable. Some have vinyl or rubber coatings to protect floors, which can be helpful.
Handle: Ensure the handle diameter is comfortable for your hand size, especially for one-handed moves.
Brand: Read reviews. Reputable fitness brands generally ensure good quality control and accurate weight.

Try to handle one in person if you can, to check the grip. If buying online, stick with well-known suppliers with good return policies incase the finish is rough.

Your Step-by-Step Purchase Plan

Assess: Honestly judge your current strength level and main fitness goal.
Budget: Decide your total spend. It’s okay to start small.
Choose Your Path: Pick from: Single Starter, Beginner Combo (2 bells), Full Set (3-5), or Adjustable.
Select Weights: Use the exercise guide above to pick specific weights. When in doubt, go lighter to focus on form.
Purchase & Practice: Buy from a trusted source. Start with foundational movements like the hip hinge, swing, and goblet squat before adding complexity.

FAQ: Your Kettlebell Questions Answered

Is one kettlebell enough for a good workout?

Yes, absolutely. One kettlebell can provide excellent workouts for years. You can do swings, squats, presses, and carries. The limitation comes in unilateral training and specific heavy lifts, but for general fitness, one is powerful tool.

What 2 kettlebells should I buy first?

Most people benefit from a two-bell combo: one for upper-body dominant lifts (like presses) and one heavier for lower-body and swings. A common example is a 12kg and a 16kg, or a 16kg and a 20kg, depending on your strength.

Should I buy kettlebells in pounds or kilograms?

It doesn’t matter for training effect, but be consistent. Most kettlebell sport and programing uses kilograms (kg). The jumps between standard kg sizes (4kg) are perfect for progression. Just know that 1kg equals 2.2lbs.

How do I know if a kettlebell is to heavy?

If you cannot maintain a neutral spine during swings or squats, it’s too heavy. For presses, if you must excessively lean back or jerk the weight, go lighter. Safety and form always come first—the weight will get easier with time.

Can I build muscle with just kettlebells?

Yes, you can build significant muscle, especially if you focus on progressive overload. This means gradually using heavier weights, doing more reps, or reducing rest time. Movements like heavy double front squats, presses, and rows are excellent for hypertrophy.

Starting your home gym with kettlebells is a smart choice. By thinking about your personal goals and following this guidance, you can invest in a set that will serve you for years to come. Remember, it’s better to master movement with a lighter bell than to struggle with poor form under a heavy one. Your future self will thank you for making a thoughtful decision.