Q I recently read an article in Shape magazine that highlighted a new workout routine called “kettlebell training.” I have been to gyms all over and have not been able to find one that offers a kettlebell class. I was so excited about starting this type of exercise routine, to elevate my fitness to the next level. Do you offer this type of training? If not, do you know anyone who does? — CYNTHIA S.

A Great question! Kettlebells are incredible and definitely one of the most exciting, fun and results-producing ways to exercise. Kettlebells originated in Russia and were used to train the Russian army. They’ve recently become popular because of their effectiveness in helping people attain their fitness goals while enjoying something new.

A kettlebell looks like a bowling ball with a handle. You perform kettlebell exercises by grasping the handle and completing different movements that are geared for maximum results. A professional kettlebell workout will burn fat, increase lean muscle, improve shape, increase range of motion and flexibility, improve conditioning and stamina and help someone achieve just about any fitness goal he or she might have. Kettlebells are the wave of the future for people who are normally bored by exercise.

A good kettlebell class will include circuits of core training, strength training and flexibility work, with rest intervals in between. A kettlebell workout is great for women, men, boys and girls of all ages.

It’s fun and challenging!

In the fitness world, trends tend to come and go in a flash but kettlebell workouts have been steadily increasing in popularity for the last several years. This is fast becoming one of the most requested workouts in gyms around the country. We’ve seen a dramatic rise in interest in the past year alone, with kettlebells being featured in the mainstream media and personal trainers lining up to become certified in kettlebell training.

One such local area trainer is Ryan Clark, who specializes in kettlebell training and is beginning some kettlebell classes in the next few weeks, because of the demand for this increasingly popular class.

For more information on kettlebell training or to sign up for a local kettlebell class, you can contact Ryan by calling (864) 965-8911 or e-mail him at ultrafitryan@aol.com.

Also, I will be offering a live seminar on weight loss, fitness and kettlebell training at 7:15 p.m. Sept. 30 at Coop’s Health & Fitness, 219 Brown Road, Anderson. Reservations are being accepted and space is limited.

Readers of the Anderson Independent-Mail will be admitted free. Call (864) 222-2667 and tell them that you read this column in the Independent-Mail and you want to sign up for the seminar.

I hope to see you there, and don’t forget to bring your weight loss and fitness questions so I can answer them.