Russian vs. American Kettlebell Swing – Which One to Choose?

Abstract

Kettlebell swing exercises have been proposed as a method for developing power, strength, endurance, and aerobic capacity. There are two distinctive techniques or styles of kettlebell swing: Russian (RKBS) and American (AKBS), and the purpose of this study was to quantify the specific differences within each exercise. The aim of this paper was to determine which style offers greater mechanical output in the form of power, velocity and momentum, with consideration of energy expenditure and injury risk, and which represents a safer version of training operator for developing specific dimensions of strength and power along with muscular endurance. The selected population of physically active men (n=15; age: 27.5±4.5 years; height: 185.9±14.1 cm; weight: 96.1±11.1 kg; kettlebell swing experience: 3.6±2.4 years) were recruited to perform kettlebell swings of both styles. They performed eight maximal swings using a 24 kg kettlebell (~25% bodyweight), during which the concentric and eccentric phases and their respective amplitude, duration, peak and mean velocity, momentum and average power were analysed. The results of the paired sample t-test showed a statistically significant difference between styles in cycle duration, momentum, amplitude and velocities, while power generated was similar for both styles. In conclusion, both styles are viable training options, though the RKBS style presents a potentially safer alternative due to its biomechanical properties.