Maximus ruled the arena with unshakable strength, discipline, and precision. His training forged him into an unstoppable force, capable of conquering any challenge.
That same idea inspired me when I created the Gladiator Gainz KB Challenge — a bundle of 10 of my most popular kettlebell programs.
But first, here’s a quick look at how real gladiators trained:
How Gladiators Trained
- Strength & Power – They lifted stones, logs, and lead weights to forge raw muscle.
- Endurance & Stamina – They sparred, fought, and trained for hours to outlast opponents.
- Combat Skill – Every warrior specialized in weapons and drilled technique daily.
- Agility & Speed – Quick reflexes meant survival; they trained to be sharp and unpredictable.
- Mental Toughness – Pain, exhaustion, and hunger were part of life. Every session hardened their will.
You’re not stepping into a Colosseum, but the principles that made them strong still apply today.
That’s why I built this modern-day version. Here’s a Day 1 sample workout from the Gladiator Gainz KB Challenge:
DAY 1: Gladiator Gainz KB Workout
PART 1 – Strength Ladder
2 rounds of:
- 3 Lunges / 1 Chin-Up (or :5 over-the-bar hold / 3 one-arm KB rows / side)
- 6 Lunges / 2 Chin-Ups (or :10 over-the-bar hold / 6 one-arm KB rows / side)
- 9 Lunges / 3 Chin-Ups (or :15 over-the-bar hold / 9 one-arm KB rows / side)
PART 2 – Circuit Training (4 rounds)
45 sec per exercise → Rest 1 min between circuits
- Single-Arm KB Swings (per side) (12–16k women / 20–24k men)
- Body Saw
- KB Side Lunges (per side) (8–12k women / 16–20k men)
- High Knees in Place
PART 3 – 8-Minute AMRAP
As many rounds as possible of:
- KB Halos w/ Tricep Extension – 5/side (8–12k women / 16–20k men)
- Plank-to-Push-Up – 5/side
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With the Gladiator Gainz KB Challenge, you’ll:
- Build gladiator-level strength and muscle
- Drop fat and boost endurance
- Stay strong and pain-free with recovery-focused routines
- Challenge yourself with unique methods like EMOMs, Metcons, and German Volume Training
However, here’s the part I want to be upfront about:
This bundle is going away after this final run.
Each program normally sells for $29–$37. You’re getting all 10 (a $370+ value) for just a little more than the price of one. That works out to only a few bucks per program — and I don’t plan on offering my work this cheap again.
So if you’ve been thinking about it, this is your last chance:
-> Grab Gladiator Gainz KB Challenge Here – Final Run
Take it, run with it, and let it fuel your own training — the way Maximus fueled his battles in the arena.
Forest Vance, MS – Kettlebell Specialist
ForestVanceTraining.com | KettlebellBasics.net