Can Kettlebells Really Build Muscle?

In this episode of Strength 101, Nick tackles one of the most common questions in fitness: Can kettlebells actually build muscle? As the owner of a gym that runs entirely on kettlebells, he breaks down how this minimalist approach became a strength-building success story.

From the early days of experimenting with nothing but kettlebells to lessons learned training firefighters, Nick shares how this single piece of equipment can do it all — from deadlifts and squats to presses and rows. He also calls out the internet’s obsession with flashy “kettlebell tricks” and explains what actually drives muscle growth: load, intensity, and consistency.

Whether you’re a coach, a seasoned lifter, or just someone wondering if that 35-pound bell in the corner is worth picking up, this episode proves that when used right, kettlebells can be one of the ...