Shillong, Jul 30: The humble kettlebell has surged in popularity across Meghalaya, becoming a favorite amongst institutions, athletes, and individuals alike. This newfound enthusiasm follows a remarkable streak of success by the state team and individual competitors in the sport.
Defined by its cast-iron, kettle-like shape (sans spout) and a solitary handle, the kettlebell is available in a range of weights. Its training benefits are multifaceted, enhancing strength, cardiovascular fitness, core stability, and coordination.
Meghalaya's rise in the kettlebell sport was highlighted at the Online National Kettlebell Sport Championship in April, where the state bagged 9 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze medals, earning it the second position. Sandeep Sharma, the driving force behind the team’s success, has also achieved international accolades over the past two years.
Sharma, a seasoned coach, mentors athletes across various sports disciplines. Recently, a Shillong-based school enlisted his expertise to revamp its sports curriculum, integrating kettlebell training within.
"Kettlebell training builds functional strength, stamina, and mental resilience—attributes vital for athletes. It's about nurturing long-term athletic development from the school level, fostering enduring habits beyond just competing," Sharma shared with PTI.
At KC Secondary School, where Sharma now coaches, at least 20 students have embraced kettlebell training. Some are athletes from sports like karate, football, and boxing, while others joined out of curiosity or for enjoyment.
Sharma, who clinched a bronze for India at the World Kettlebell Championship 2024 and an Asian gold in 2023, emphasized the school's goal of making fitness an enjoyable and empowering aspect of student life.
Principal Bryan Wahlang, a 60-year-old kettlebell enthusiast, has championed the inclusion of the training program in the school.
"This is about more than just lifting weights; it's developing discipline, balance, and focus from a young age. We aimed to advance beyond traditional PT drills by introducing something dynamic and holistic. Sandeep's influence has been transformative," Wahlang expressed.
Beyond physical fitness, Wahlang has observed improvements in students' focus, confidence, and even dietary habits, noting a welcome rise in food intake among those with previously low appetites.
Outside the school, many athletes across Meghalaya have individually embraced kettlebell training and attribute it to enhancing their performance and well-being.
National-level cricketer Luiza Tamang praised the training for significantly boosting her core strength and endurance, helping her remain agile on the field and reducing injury risks.
Similarly, cyclist Lankupar Diengdoh reported notable improvements in his mobility and strength since incorporating kettlebell routines.
Advocate Sonia Langstieh shared that kettlebell training transformed her approach to fitness, moving away from a calorie-centric mindset to one focused on strength and freedom. Formerly a regular gym-goer, she now swears by kettlebell's functional advantages over purely aesthetic workouts.
The kettlebell buzz has drawn considerable interest from parents, local coaches, and fitness advocates. In a region known for nurturing emerging sports talents, such initiatives are seen as pivotal in laying a robust physical and mental foundation for young athletes.
Originating from Russia and popularized by its military, kettlebell training is lauded for its blend of strength, endurance, and mobility benefits. In India, it is gaining traction among elite athletes and coaches for its ability to simulate real-world athletic movements and enhance overall body coordination.
"Kettlebell's power lies in its simplicity and versatility," asserts Sharma.
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