KETTLEBELL
IRON BLACK
COMPETITION
VINYL

Domande frequenti - Kettlebell Strong Competition & vinyl

• What is the difference between a competition kettlebell and a classic cast-iron kettlebell?
  The competition kettlebell has standardised dimensions that are identical for every weight (from 4 kg to 48 kg): the ball always measures 210 mm in diameter and the handle 33 mm. This ensures that the technique for the snatch, clean and jerk remains the same, with only the load changing. The traditional cast-iron kettlebell, on the other hand, increases in size as the weight increases, with thicker handles on the heavier weights — a solution favoured by those who practise hardstyle and focus heavily on grip strength.
• What is the StrongFirst kettlebell certification?
  StrongFirst is the school founded by Pavel Tsatsouline, a global authority on the hardstyle methodology. A StrongFirst kettlebell complies with precise technical specifications, such as the grip and a finish designed to retain chalk, as dictated directly by StrongFirst’s leadership. Sidea is the official StrongFirst distributor for Italy and a sponsor of the Summit of Strength.
• How do I choose the weight of my first kettlebell?
  For an average adult man, the starting point is 16 kg (one pood, the traditional Russian unit of measurement). A woman in a similar condition starts at 8–12 kg. For grinding exercises such as TGUs and presses, a lower weight is advisable; for swings and cleans, you can go higher. In CrossFit boxes, the standard set for mixed WODs ranges from 12 to 32 kg in 4 kg increments.
• Is the vinyl kettlebell suitable for professional use in the gym?
  Vinyl is well suited to hobbyist use and group classes involving light weights, ranging from 2–24 kg. The vinyl coating protects floors, and the numbering makes it easy to identify the weight during classes. It is not the right choice for those planning snatch tests or high volumes of ballistic training: for that purpose, you’ll need Iron Black, Competition or StrongFirst cast iron plates.
• What does the colour coding on competition kettlebells mean?
  Competitions use an international colour code derived from the sport of girevoy: 8 kg pink, 12 kg blue, 16 kg yellow, 20 kg purple, 24 kg green, 28 kg orange, 32 kg red, 36 kg grey, 40 kg white. The colour is painted only on the bell’s window, so that the coach can recognise the weight from a distance during a competition or whilst timing a snatch test.
• Can an adjustable kettlebell replace a full set?
  The 2187 Adjustable model replaces several different weights in a compact design, making it ideal for home gyms and personal training studios where space is limited. However, its weight-change times and weight distribution are not identical to those of a kettlebell cast in a single piece. For intense ballistic training or competition, the best choice remains the cast iron kettlebell or the competition model.
• What is the difference between hardstyle and girevoy sport?
  Hardstyle, as defined by StrongFirst, seeks the ultimate expression of strength and power in single repetitions: explosive swings, controlled TGUs and high-tension presses. Girevoy sport is the Russian competitive discipline in which jerks, long cycles and snatches are performed for 10 minutes non-stop, with the aim of building volume and endurance. These are different methodologies and require different kettlebells. To put it simply: Hardstyle = maximum muscular effectiveness Girevoy = maximum energy efficiency
• How big is the handle on a competition kettlebell?
  The IUKL standard specifies a 33 mm diameter handle for men’s kettlebells (16 kg and above), whilst some women’s models use a 25 mm handle for lighter weights. The internal distance between the handle and the bell is calibrated to accommodate two hands during the two-hand swing and to facilitate the transition to the rack position during clean and jerk exercises in 10-minute sets.
• Do you need gloves to train with kettlebells?
  No, gloves affect your grip and increase the risk of slipping during the swing and snatch. The correct technique involves using bare hands, perhaps with a light dusting of chalk to absorb sweat. Calluses form when training at high volumes: these should be treated with a file and cream, not with gloves. Only in the early stages, to protect the skin from friction caused by the elbow during the snatch, may a wrist strap be used.
• How many kettlebells do you need to kit out a CrossFit box?
  For a class of 12–15 athletes, the minimum set includes pairs of 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 kg, plus single weights of 28 and 32 kg, in Iron Black or Competition cast iron, depending on the type of programme. If the box is working towards StrongFirst SFG certification, compliant 24 and 32 kg weights are also required. Sidea configures the set, tailoring it to the number of athletes training simultaneously via the Gym Design service.
• What instalment payment options are available?
  Sidea offers a range of instalment payment options to make it easier to purchase professional equipment. Please see the dedicated page: Sidea Payment Options.
• I’m a fitness professional – can I get special rates?
  If you work in the fitness or sports sector, register on the website as a Professional or as an ASD to gain access to the price list reserved for industry professionals. Pro registration allows you to view exclusive discounts and special terms across the entire Sidea catalogue.
• Is Sidea listed on the MEPA for public sector procurement?
  Yes, Sidea is an authorised supplier on the MEPA (Public Administration Electronic Marketplace). Public bodies, schools, universities, local authorities and public sports facilities can purchase Sidea equipment via the Acquisti in Rete PA platform. For information on product codes and direct MEPA orders, please contact Sidea customer service.
• What are Sidea’s returns and warranty terms?
  Sidea guarantees the right to cancel within 14 days of delivery for all online purchases, in accordance with current legislation. Products must be returned undamaged and in their original packaging. For full details on returns, refunds and the warranty, please see the Terms and Conditions of Sale page.
• Why choose Sidea equipment?
  Sidea has been designing and distributing professional fitness equipment since 1999: over 25 years’ experience serving gyms, sports coaches, CrossFit boxes, personal training studios and enthusiasts of advanced home fitness. Official distributor for StrongFirst and Luxiaojun, exhibiting at the FIBO international trade fair and technical sponsor of the Summit of Strength. Every product is developed with a focus on durability, functionality and suitability for real-world use. The Gym Design service offers bespoke design with 3D renderings. A warehouse covering over 4,000 m² in Gambettola (FC) ensures rapid order fulfilment, direct technical advice and a special price list for professionals and amateur sports clubs (ASD).