Umbro kettlebell 2 kg, grey/blue

The Umbro kettlebell 2 kg is a light, composite kettlebell with a plastic outer shell in grey and blue. It is meant for people who want an easy entry into kettlebell training: warm-ups, shoulder and arm work, mobility drills and learning movement patterns before moving on to heavier weights. If you already train with dumbbells or bands, it is a handy extra for your warm-up routine.

Who a 2 kg kettlebell suits

A 2 kg bell is on the light end. It suits complete beginners, people returning to exercise after a break, and anyone who wants a tool for controlled shoulder and core work. It is also useful for practising technique: the Turkish get-up, for example, is much easier to learn with a light bell. For lower-body moves like swings, deadlifts and goblet squats, most adults will need more weight fairly soon. Our guide to home gym equipment for beginners explains how a light bell fits into a small home setup.

A 10-minute warm-up routine

Work through this circuit twice, moving slowly and with control:

• Halos: hold the bell by the horns at chest height and circle it around your head, 6 times each direction.
• Around-the-world: pass the bell around your waist from hand to hand, 8 times each direction.
• Single-arm overhead press: 8 reps per side, ribs down and glutes tight.
• Suitcase carry: walk 20 steps holding the bell at your side, then switch hands.
• Dead bug with kettlebell: lie on your back, hold the bell above your chest and lower opposite arm and leg, 6 per side.

After this you are ready for your main workout. If you are new to structured training, strength training for beginners shows how to build a full plan around it.

What to look for and when to go heavier

Check that the handle feels smooth and wide enough for your hand. A composite bell is bulkier than a cast iron one of the same weight, which matters little at 2 kg. Once you can do 15 controlled reps of an exercise without effort, it is time for a heavier bell or dumbbell for that movement.

Care and safety

Wipe the shell with a damp cloth after sweaty sessions and keep it dry. Train on a clear floor with space around you, and never swing a kettlebell near other people, pets or furniture. Inspect the handle from time to time and stop using the bell if the shell is cracked or loose.