We did a CrossFit Total (max back squat, deadlift, and press) last week. Here is a shot of Rick setting, he eventually pulled 356 and totaled 731 at 170lbs.
Check out kettlebells in the Wall Street Journal. Any press is good press but the talk of danger in the swing is silly at best. I have taught the swing to well over 100 people in the last 3 years and I have yet to see an injury. Plus, a lot of those people were not exercising before they started with KBs.
Chris,
Speaking of swing. I watched a Mark Rifkind video a few weeks ago and noticed that he keeps his swing pretty close to his body and doesn’t move it very high. Same goes for his wife. What is the theory behind this and is it wrong or just a different way (or specifically used for higher reps?).
Thanks
PS: I haven’t forgot the testimonial for your site!
Christian,
I think its just different but Mark may have his reasons. Personally I find that I can generate more power with a lower position at the bottom of the swing. It also feels better on my back. As long as your form is safe I encourage my athletes to find a depth that feels right to them.
As far as height goes there is a bit more debate on that one. The CrossFit community promotes a very high arc, the so-called “American Swing”. While the RKC community typically uses a lower height and often moves to a heavier bell instead of going higher. As with many things I suspect the answer to the question “Who is right?” is: both of them. Try both, do what feels best, and occasionally use the other method for variety.
Be careful when swinging hight that the bell does not flip over your hands or cause you to be off-balance.
Hope that helps,
Chris
Chris thanks for the follow up on this.