How to Drop a Size in 28 Days with Kettlebells – PART 2 (the diet)

In part 1 we covered kettlebell workouts to burn calories and boost metabolism. Now let’s get into the nutrition part of dropping a size in 28 days. By combining calorie deficit with exercise you can lose fat while keeping muscle.

Calorie Calculations to Lose 8lbs in a Month

For a 200lb person to lose 8lbs in a month you need to create a daily calorie deficit of 1000 calories. This can be achieved through diet and exercise.

Here’s the math:

  • To maintain your current weight you’d need around 2600 calories/day.
  • By eating 1800-2000 calories/day and burning 200-400 calories/day through exercise you’ll have a total daily deficit of around 1000 calories and lose 2lbs of fat per week.

Increasing Calorie Expenditure Through Exercise

Kettlebell workouts like those in part 1 will increase your daily calorie expenditure. A 30 minute kettlebell session can burn up to 600 calories. Combined with your 1800-2000 calorie diet you’ll have a big daily deficit and lose fat faster while keeping muscle.

Sample High-Protein Meal Plan

Here’s a simple high-protein meal plan to fit within 1800-2000 calorie framework while losing fat and keeping muscle:

  • Breakfast:
    Greek yogurt (1 cup) with mixed berries and almonds
    (Calories: 300, Protein: 25g)
  • Lunch:
    Grilled chicken breast (6 oz) with quinoa and vegetables
    (Calories: 450, Protein: 40g)
  • Snack:
    Hard-boiled eggs (2) with walnuts
    (Calories: 250, Protein: 20g)
  • Dinner:
    Baked salmon (5 oz) with sweet potato and broccoli
    (Calories: 550, Protein: 35g)
  • Evening Snack (Optional):
    Cottage cheese (1/2 cup)
    (Calories: 100, Protein: 15g)

Total Calories: ~1800-2000
Total Protein: ~135g

Nutrition Components of the 28-Day Challenge

The FVT + UHW 2024 Back-to-School 28-Day Challenge includes:

  1. Calorie Deficit: A customized plan to help you know exactly what to do, and increasing calorie burn through kettlebell workouts for fat loss.
  2. Increased Protein: You’ll focus on protein to aid in muscle recovery and satiety.
  3. Balanced Macronutrients: To fuel your workouts and recovery.
  4. Whole, Simple Foods: Easy to prepare meals focused on whole, unprocessed foods to keep you on track.
  5. Accountability: Regular check-ins and personalized coaching to make adjustments and ensure your success.

Ready to Drop a Size?

Join the 2024 Back-to-School Drop-a-Size Kettlebell Challenge for custom workouts, meal plans and weekly accountability.

Registration is open now, grab your spot at the link below:

-> Fall 2024 “Drop a Waist Size” Challenge

– Forest

P.S. If you have any questions, just reply to this message – I’m happy to chat!

How to Drop a Size in 28 Days with Kettlebells – PART 1

Want to drop a size in 28 days? Kettlebells could be your answer. These short, intense workouts burn a ton of calories during the workout and keep your metabolism elevated for hours after. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), kettlebell workouts can burn up to 20 calories per minute—that’s 600 calories in just 30 minutes​ (research below).

*If you’re ready to drop a size in 28 days, join my challenge! You’ll get custom workouts, nutrition tips, and accountability to reach your goal. Reply to this email with the word “CHALLENGE” and I’ll send over the details. And hurry, we start Monday September 9th!

The Afterburn Effect (EPOC)

After the workout, kettlebells trigger EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption), which means your body will continue to burn calories as it recovers. This effect can last up to 24 hours, keeping your metabolism elevated​ for the rest of the day.

Sample KB Circuit

Here’s a quick workout to get your metabolism fired up. Set your timer for 60 seconds per exercise. Do the prescribed reps, rest for the remainder of the minute. Repeat the full circuit for four rounds, with a 60-second rest between rounds.

  1. Two-Hand Kettlebell Swings – 20 reps
    (24 kg for men / 16 kg for women)
  2. Bear Plank March – 10 reps per leg
  3. Kettlebell Goblet Alternating Reverse Lunges – 8 reps per leg
    (20 kg for men / 12 kg for women)
  4. Single-Arm Kettlebell Rows – 12 reps per side
    (20 kg for men / 12 kg for women)
  5. Burpees – 8 reps

After the entire circuit, rest for 60 seconds and repeat for four rounds.

Ready to Drop a Size?

If you’re ready to drop a size in 28 days, join my challenge! You’ll get custom workouts, nutrition tips, and accountability to reach your goal. Reply to this email with the word “CHALLENGE” and I’ll send over the details. And hurry, we start Monday September 9th!

Forest Vance
FVT Warrior Wellness

Research links:

https://www.acefitness.org/about-ace/press-room/press-releases/528/ace-study-reveals-kettlebells-provide-powerful-workout-in-short-amount-of-time/

https://www.acefitness.org/resources/pros/expert-articles/2982/kettlebells-twice-the-results-in-half-the-time/

https://www.acefitness.org/resources/pros/expert-articles/2982/kettlebells-twice-the-results-in-half-the-time/

Labor Day “Reverse Ladder” KB Workout

Labor Day weekend is here! Most people are firing up the grill or soaking up the last of summer but I’ve got a different kind of celebration in mind—one that will leave you stronger, more energized and ready for anything.

Before you get into the fun, why not take some time to invest in yourself? I’ve put together a killer “Reverse Ladder” kettlebell workout that will challenge your body and get your blood pumping. Whether you’re a seasoned kettlebell veteran or just looking for something new to try, this workout will push you to your limits and make you feel like a boss.

Get your kettlebell and turn up the tunes!

– Forest and the FVT Team @ ForestVanceTraining.com & KettlebellBasics.net


Labor Day “Reverse Ladder” KB Workout

Set your timer and do the following as fast as possible. Rest as needed and prioritize form.

  • 20 two-hand KB swings
  • 5 one-arm KB presses per side
  • 10 walking goblet lunges per side
  • 20 inverted rows or 10 one-arm KB rows per side
  • 10 burpees

Then, decrease reps in each round:

  • 16 two-hand KB swings
  • 4 one-arm KB presses per side
  • 8 walking goblet lunges per side
  • 16 inverted rows or 8 one-arm KB rows per side
  • 8 burpees

Continue until you get to:

  • 4 two-hand KB swings
  • 1 one-arm KB press per side
  • 2 walking goblet lunges per side
  • 4 inverted rows or 2 one-arm KB rows per side
  • 2 burpees

Now you’re done with the workout.

You’ve heard of powerbuilding, right? It’s all about building serious strength and muscle at the same time. Imagine combining the raw power of powerlifting with the sculpting focus of bodybuilding. That’s how actors like Christian Bale and Will Smith get into superhero shape.

But what if you could get those results with just a kettlebell? That’s exactly what I’ve done with my Kettlebell Powerbuilding program. It’s designed to give you functional strength, sculpt your body and improve your performance – without a barbell in sight.

And here’s the best part: for this week only, when you buy my Kettlebell Isometrics program you’ll get the entire Kettlebell Powerbuilding program for free. That’s two programs for the price of one!

–>> KB Isometrics + KB Powerbuilding – 2-for-1 Sale

Get that Hollywood superhero body from home with just a kettlebell!

– Forest Vance — ForestVanceTraining.com — KettlebellBasics.net

P.S. Kettlebell Powerbuilding is one of my favorite programs of all time. It’s $29 on its own but I’m including it for free when you buy KB Isometrics this weekend. This offer won’t last long so act now!

–>> KB Isometrics + KB Powerbuilding – 2-for-1 Sale

Kettlebell Powerbuilding – Free Sample Workout

What if you could combine the best of both worlds in your kettlebell training? That’s exactly what my new Kettlebell Powerbuilding program is all about. And you get it 100% FREE, when you pick up a copy of Kettlebell Isometrics, this week only:

–>> KB Isometrics + KB Powerbuilding – 2-for-1 Sale

“Powerbuilding” is all about getting strong AND adding lean muscle, all at the same time. Traditionally, it combines the best of both the powerlifting and bodybuilding worlds for the best results.

This got me thinking—could we create a powerbuilding-style program using kettlebells ONLY? Traditionally, you would focus on squatting, benching, and deadlifting, then add bodybuilding-style exercises on top of that. But what if we replaced those traditional movements with kettlebell exercises?

This way, you can achieve the same results at home, in less time, and with the joint-sparing benefits of kettlebells.

Check out a free sample kettlebell powerbuilding workout, then get the entire program FREE when you pick up a copy of

What if you could combine the best of both worlds in your kettlebell training? That’s exactly what my new Kettlebell Powerbuilding program is all about. And you get it 100% FREE, when you pick up a copy of Kettlebell Isometrics, this week only:

–>> KB Isometrics + KB Powerbuilding – 2-for-1 Sale

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Kettlebell Powerbuilding – Free Sample Workout

PART 1: Turkish Get Ups

  • Do one rep on your right side.
  • Do one rep on your left side.
  • Increase the weight if possible and repeat.
  • Increase the weight if possible again, and repeat two more times with your highest weight, for a total of four reps per side.

PART 2: Strength Circuit

  • Do 5 KB clean and presses (right side).
  • Do 5 KB clean and presses (left side).
  • Do 5 double KB front squats.
  • Rest 90-120 seconds.
  • Repeat this three more times for a total of four rounds of the circuit.
  • Finish by setting your timer, and completing as many reps as possible in 30 seconds of KB clean and press on each side, immediately followed by as many reps as possible in 60 seconds of double KB front squats.

PART 3: Conditioning Circuit

  • Do 15 two-hand KB swings.
  • Do 12 push-ups.
  • Rest 90-120 seconds.
  • Repeat this three more times for a total of four rounds of the circuit.
  • Finish by setting your timer, and getting as many KB snatch reps as you can in 30 seconds on the right side, then 30 seconds on the left side.

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Kettlebell Powerbuilding is one of my PERSONAL favorite all-time programs that I have created. It will help you gain all-around functional strength, sculpt your body and take your performance to new heights. Plus, it’s the perfect program to do once you are finished with KB Isometrics.

It sells on my website separately for $29.

But I am including it – in ADDITION to KB Isometrics – 100% FREE when you purchase today.

*This bonus is included for a limited time ONLY – buy now to get the deal!*

–>> KB Isometrics + KB Powerbuilding – 2-for-1 Sale

– Forest Vance — ForestVanceTraining.com — KettlebellBasics.net

KB – ISO Workout — Week 2 / Day 1

Did you know there are two main types of isometric exercise? Let’s break it down:

Yielding Isometrics: This type is holding a position and resisting movement. Think of a plank—your core, shoulders, legs and pretty much every muscle in your body is engaged to keep you stable. Yielding isometrics are safe on your joints because there is no movement and they also strengthen the stabilizing muscles that protect your joints in other dynamic exercises. By adding yielding isometrics to your routine you’re reinforcing the foundational strength that supports all your other movements and reducing the risk of injury.

Overcoming Isometrics: On the other hand, overcoming isometrics is exerting force against an immovable object—like pushing against a wall or pressing a barbell into the safety pins of a squat rack that won’t budge. This type of isometric exercise forces your body to use the most amount of muscle fibers, resulting in maximum muscle activation. From a scientific perspective overcoming isometrics are great for nervous system stimulation. They teach your nervous system to engage your muscles as fast and as hard as possible which can break through strength plateaus and improve your performance in dynamic lifts.

By combining these two types of isometrics with kettlebell training you’re getting a workout that builds raw strength and muscle and also improves joint stability, muscle endurance and overall physical performance. Here’s a sample from my Kettlebell-Isometrics course—check it out then grab the full program here.


Main Circuit – 3 rounds. Rest 30 seconds between exercises, 45 seconds between rounds.

  1. Towel ISO Deadlift – 20 seconds
  2. Double KB Suitcase Deadlift – 10 reps (Women: 16k+, Men: 24k+, uneven weights okay)
  3. 1-Arm KB Rows – 10 reps + 1-Arm Row Hold – 20 seconds (Women: 12k+, Men: 20k+)
  4. ISO Bridge with 1-Arm Floor Press – 8 reps each side (Women: 12k+, Men: 20k+)
  5. ISO Split Squat with KB Chest Press Out – 30 seconds each side (Women: 12k+, Men: 20k+)

Finisher – Complete each exercise for specified time, rest 15 seconds between exercises, 30 seconds between rounds. 3 rounds.

  1. ISO Box Step Down (modify with Squat hold to lunge tap down) – 20 seconds each side
  2. Power Box Step Ups (modify with jump squats or fast squats) – 40 seconds
  3. Decline Bodyweight Renegade Row – 30 seconds
  4. Decline Mountain Jumper – 30 seconds

If you liked this workout you’ll love Kettlebell-Isometrics. PLUS it’s 2-for-1 this week—you’ll also get Kettlebell Powerbuilding with your purchase! This is a deal you can’t refuse. Get all the details and order here.

— Forest

new KB Press/Squat/Row/Burpee Complex

I wanted to share a new KB Press/Squat/Row/Burpee Complex with you. This is part of the Kettlebell workout plan we’re doing this month at FVT, and let me tell you, it’s surprisingly tough!

Now, a quick disclaimer: though I share sample workouts, this doesn’t mean that you should create a workout plan by just randomly piecing them together. You need a well-structured program that accounts for your training schedule, ensures proper recovery, and balances muscle groups to optimize development and prevent injury.

That’s why I recommend, if you’re local, reaching out to us to see how we can help with one of our personal training programs. We will custom design not just a single one-off workout, but a complete training plan designed just for you. Reply directly to this message!

If you’re not in the Lee’s Summit, MO area, check out Extreme KB Conditioning—my newest online, home-based kettlebell program. This program is not quite as individualized, but it does incorporate all the elements that a solid training plan should such as progressive overload, proper recovery, and more. We start together as a group this week, and you can sign up here –>> Extreme KB Cardio Conditioning 2.0

Okay, now here’s the sample workout:

KB Press/Squat/Row/Burpee Complex

Do as many reps as you can of each exercise in 30 seconds. Rest for 5 seconds between moves. Complete 4 rounds total:

— KB Press (right side)
— KB Rack Squat (right side)
— KB 1-Arm Row (right side)
— KB Press (left side)
— KB Rack Squat (left side)
— KB 1-Arm Row (left side)
— Burpees

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If you’re local, reach out to us to see how we can help with one of our personal training programs. We will custom design not just a single one-off workout, but a complete training plan designed just for you. Reply directly to this message.

If you’re not in the Lee’s Summit, MO area, check out Extreme KB Conditioning—my newest online, home-based kettlebell program. This program is not quite as individualized, but it does incorporate all the elements that a solid training plan should such as progressive overload, proper recovery, and more. We start together as a group this week, and you can sign up here: Extreme KB Cardio Conditioning 2.0

— Forest Vance
MS – Human Movement
Kettlebell Expert
Over 40 Specialist
ForestVanceTraining.com
KettlebellBasics.net

KB Snatch + Double Burpee EMOM Workout

One of the coolest things about kettlebells is how they can give you an amazing full-body workout, even when you’re short on time.

I’ve had days when my schedule was packed from morning till night, barely leaving any time to train.

But with kettlebells, even if I’ve only got 10 or 15 minutes, I know I can squeeze in a workout that hits every muscle group, gets my heart rate up, and leaves me feeling like I really accomplished something.

Take today’s KB Snatch + Double Burpee EMOM Workout as a case in point:

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KB Snatch + Double Burpee EMOM Workout

Set your timer for 10 minutes.

At the top of minute one, do five kettlebell snatches on your right side, then five on your left.

Rest until minute two starts.

When minute two hits, do five double burpees.

Rest until minute three starts.

Keep going back and forth like this, doing five rounds of each for a total of 10 minutes.

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What if you could get extreme fat loss and improve your endurance—all without punishing your joints?

Ditch the boring cardio and lose up to one full clothes size in just 28 days…all while protecting your body and joints—no matter your age! Join the 28-Day Extreme Kettlebell Cardio Conditioning Challenge at the link below:

28-day Kettlebell Cardio Challenge

This program is a complete 28-day kettlebell journey designed to supercharge your cardio conditioning and ignite fat loss.

By committing just 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times a week, you can boost your cardio endurance and VO2 max by up to 20%—all while dropping a full clothes size!

And the best part? You’ll skip right over the injuries and wear-and-tear that can come from traditional cardio methods like running.

We’ll master key moves, combine them with body-weight exercises, and push through intense circuit-style workouts that will challenge and transform you.

But act fast—sign-ups are only open this week!

28-day Kettlebell Cardio Challenge

— Forest Vance
Master of Science, Human Movement
Kettlebell Expert

ForestVanceTraining.com
KettlebellBasics.net

PS – When you join the Challenge, you’ll also get an awesome bonus stack, including:

  • Kettlebell Basics WODs – Tabata Challenge 2.0 Edition
  • 16/8 Carb Cycling Workshop with Forest
  • KettlebellBasics Swing Clinic – Workshop Recordings

Don’t miss out—secure your spot today:

28-day Kettlebell Cardio Challenge – https://forestvance.lpages.co/extreme-kb-cardio-conditioning-20/

19-min “Beat the Clock” KB Cardio Workout

Sick of boring cardio?

Kettlebells are an AWESOME way to enhance your heart health while ACTUALLY ENJOYING your workout.

Our 28 day Kettlebell Cardio Challenge is coming up and we’re opening sign-ups this week.

Stay tuned!

In the meantime, give the sample workout below a shot.

–Forest Vance
ForestVanceTraining.com
KettlebellBasics.net

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19-min “Beat the Clock” KB Cardio Workout

— 12 pushups
— 20 one-arm kettlebell swings (10 R / 10 L)
— 5 windmills per side
— 8 goblet lunges per side

This workout works on a “beat-the-clock” format: When the clock starts, go to the exercise indicated. At the beginning of each minute, start a new set. Your rest is the time remaining after you complete the exercise but before the top of the next minute.

For example, do 12 pushups. It will take you 30 seconds—you’ll have 30 seconds of rest until the swings start in the next minute. If it takes you 10 seconds, you’ll have 50 seconds of rest. If it takes you 45 seconds, you’ll have 15 seconds of rest and so on.

Do four of the sequence, working in this work-to-rest pattern.

🔥 “John Wick” Kettlebell Complex 🔥

This kettlebell complex was inspired by Keanu Reeves’ endless training for the role of John Wick. With this workout, you will know exactly how it feels to be that non-stop assassin—endurance, strength, and mental toughness. This workout epitomizes the intensity, power, and agility Reeves brought to the iconic character who just would not stop, who would not be outdone at hand-to-hand combat.

🔥 “John Wick” Kettlebell Complex 🔥

5 rounds for time:

— 5 One-Arm Kettlebell Press (Right Side)
— 5 One-Arm Kettlebell Rack Squats (Right Side)
— 5 One-Arm Kettlebell Swings (Right Side)
— 5 One-Arm Kettlebell Press (Left Side)
— 5 One-Arm Kettlebell Rack Squats (Left Side)
— 5 One-Arm Kettlebell Swings (Left Side)
— 7 Burpees

At the end of all this torture, you will feel just like that unstoppable force—the “John Wick” Kettlebell Complex gets you cranked up to face whatever challenge is hurled your way!

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[email protected]

I’m on the lookout for 5 highly motivated people who want to nail the fundamentals of kettlebells, build raw strength, and lose as much as 12% bodyweight in just the next 12 weeks using my “KB Fit Over 40” 1-on-1 online coaching program.

Would you be interested in joining me? Reply directly to this message with the word YES and I’ll get you all the details!

Forest Vance
Master of Science, Human Movement
Kettlebell Expert
Over 40 Specialist
KettlebellBasics.net

10-Minute KB-Abs Finisher

One of the things that becomes key in our training as we enter our 40s, 50s, and beyond is volume adjustment.

In this regard, the definition of volume pertains to the total quantity or amount of workout done, usually quantifiable in number of sets and reps, and total workout time. Decreased volume simply means the slashing of overall work as exercises are either maintained or increased in terms of intensity. In essence, this allows us to make our workout more manageable as we age without losing any effectiveness.

For example, running through a few sets of 10-20 high quality KB swings? Awesome!

Doing 1/4 mile walking lunges followed by 50 burpees for time? Maybe not so much, leave that for the 18-year olds 😉

Here’s a great example of a short-and-sweet workout using kettlebells. You can use it as a finisher at the end of your next workout or even as a stand-alone session:

10-Minute KB-Abs Finisher

— Complete as many rounds as you can in 10 minutes of:

— Goblet Squats — 10 reps

— Spider Climb with Push-Ups — 10 reps (5 spider climbs per side + 10 push-ups)

— KB Swings — 20 reps

— Mountain Climbers — 20 reps (10 per side; go slow!)

— Alternating Goblet Lunges — 20 reps (10 per side)

Give this workout a try and let me know how it goes!

If you like it, also check out my 4-Week Kettlebell Challenge for 50+. This will help you stay well and keep on doing what you love pain-free, feeling up to 20 years younger.

You’ll get:

— Lifetime Kettlebell Fitness: Full 4-week training plan

— FREE BONUS 1: Over 50 Kettlebell Revolution: Additional full 28-day kettlebell program.

— FREE BONUS 2: The Core Kettlebell Workshop Videos – A 17-part video series to master kettlebell training

— FREE BONUS 3: 28-Day Kettlebell Body Revival Challenge – Another full 28-day kettlebell program

Access link:

-> 4-Week Kettlebell Challenge for 50+

Looking forward to hearing about your progress!

— Forest Vance
Master of Science, Human Movement
Certified Kettlebell Instructor
Corrective Exercise Specialist
KettlebellBasics.net