1) Put you ego aside , early on. Even if you are a strong young man , you will struggle trying
to train with competition weights i.e. 32kg . The elite athletes have all passed though various learning stages , and in particular
have made their way through the grades of progressively heavier kettlebells. In the first instance you should strive to complete
a 10 minute set of snatches or jerks using whatever weight enables this accomplishment. If you can't make it with 16s , use
12s or complete the set with short rest breaks. If 16s are achievable, try 24s - when you find the going gets tough , pick
up a lighter bell and complete the set. Another method uses progressively longer sets , with the later aim of reducing
rest intervals.
If you want to run a 10 minute race you start by jogging the entire distance at whatever pace you can manage. Later you
practise speed intervals , and eventually build your stride tempo. Later still you learn to pace yourself throughout the entire
race - balancing efficiency with work rate. Use this analogy to train the specific girevoy sport lifts.
2) Choose one or two assistance lifts which address any major faults. It is best to concentrate
on these for a few weeks then reassess. Complex training becomes difficult to manage , especially without a coach or in the
novice phase.
3) Learn to recognise signals of overtraining. In particular , grip is easily overtrained.
Think smart e.g. developing better overhead stability allows rest in the overhead position in the snatches , thus sparing
the grip. Thus balance swings and snatches with sets of overhead paused lockouts .
4) Very importantly , keep a training log and note general health as well as the details of
a session. Keeping a diary keeps you honest with respect to training regularity , and allows self or external assessment of
your progress (or lack of progress).
5) Look , ask and learn! Various forums abound with training information
If you want to do well , educate yourself! And remember , success requires years of mindful practise.
You are like a "musician", learning to master the kettlebell "intrument". Vison and patience is rewarded with
success.
