25-min AWG Kettlebell Workout

If you’ve ever felt like your joints are the limiting factor in your training… I get it.

I spent years chasing heavy lifts — until my shoulders, knees, and back started calling the shots.

That’s why I built Ageless Warrior GAINZ — a simple, powerful way to build strength and muscle without beating yourself up.

And instead of just telling you about it, I want to give you a sample workout to try today (on me).

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25-min AWG Kettlebell Workout

1. Front-Loaded Strength – 10 Minutes
Alternate between:

  • Single/Double Kettlebell Front Squats – 4 sets of 8
  • Dead Bugs – 3 sets of 5 per side

— Get as many rounds as possible in 10 minutes

2. Smart-Tension Ladder
Perform the following circuit, adding 1 rep each round:

  • 2-Hand Swings
  • Push-Ups
  • KB suitcase Split Squats
  • Burpees

Start with 3 reps per move and climb as far as you can in 10 minutes.

3. Finisher – Swing EMOM (5 Minutes)
Every minute for 5 minutes:

  • 14 one-arm swings (7 per side)

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This approach triggers time under tension and controlled fatigue — so you get a powerful muscle-building stimulus without joint overload.

It’s how dozens of my guys (and gals) in their 40s, 50s, and 60s are training pain-free and getting stronger every week.

“Stronger with zero back flare-ups. Shirts fit tighter in the arms and chest.” — Joel R.

“Energy up, joints happier, visible muscle in 3 weeks.” — Carolyn R.

You can test this for yourself today — feel it working in one session.

If you like this sample, the full Ageless Warrior GAINZ program gives you:

— 4 weeks of progressive workouts using Smart-Tension Kettlebell Training
— Step-by-step video demos and mobility finishers
— Done-for-you progression plan — no guesswork

This special GAINZ launch offer runs through Monday only.

Start GAINZ Now →

— Forest

Kettlebell STKT method – How to Build More Strength with Less Weight

Here’s something most lifters over 40 eventually learn the hard way:
you can’t out-lift your recovery.

After 25+ years of training — from pro football to coaching thousands of clients — I found that the guys who keep progressing into their 40s, 50s, and 60s aren’t chasing heavier weights… they’re chasing better tension.

That’s the foundation of what I call Smart-Tension Kettlebell Training — or STKT.

It’s how you build real muscle and strength without beating up your joints.

Here’s how to use it starting today:

1 – Control the Tempo

Instead of exploding through every rep, take 3–4 seconds on the lowering phase and 1 second up.
Try this with your KB RDLs or 1-arm rows — you’ll feel the difference instantly.
You’ll recruit more muscle fibers without adding weight.

2 – Use the “Stretch Principle”

This comes straight from muscle-growth research:
your muscles respond best when trained under tension in a lengthened position.
With kettlebells, that means movements like Bulgarian split squats or RDLs — where you feel the muscle stretch under control, then contract back through full range.

3 – Track Density, Not Load

Don’t just add weight.
Add work done per minute.
For example: perform 6 reps of KB RDLs every minute on the minute for 5 minutes — next week, try 7.
That’s progressive overload, joint-friendly style.

That’s STKT in action — controlled tempo, stretch-based tension, and smart progression.
It’s how I (and my 40+ clients) keep building muscle and strength without wrecking our backs, knees, or shoulders.

If you want a plug-and-play plan built entirely around these methods,
check out my 28-Day Ageless Warrior GAINZ Challenge.

Start GAINZ Now ->>

— Forest

Most people ruin their kettlebell swing (here’s how to fix it)

Here’s a simple kettlebell swing hack that’ll change everything:

Your kettlebell should float at the top of the swing — for just a split second.

If your arms and shoulders feel tense, you’re probably muscling it instead of driving it with hip power.

The swing isn’t an arm exercise — it’s a power exercise.

Once you master that snap from the hips, everything clicks:

  • Your back stops aching
  • Your cardio skyrockets
  • You burn more fat in less time

Now — quick heads up:

I’m opening a few 1-to-1 Ageless Warrior Kettlebell Coaching spots for mid-month.

(We work on small, individualized things that drive significant results – like today’s swing tip – in this program, all the time.)

This 12-week private coaching program teaches you the fundamentals of effective kettlebell training, helping you build strength and lean muscle while potentially losing up to 12% of your body weight.

All that to say, this isn’t a $29 quick fix program.

It’s for men and women 40+ who are serious about making real change and ready to commit time, effort, and resources into the process.

If that’s you, just hit reply and I’ll send the details.

..and make it a great week!

– Forest
MS, Human Movement
Certified Kettlebell Instructor
FVT Warrior Wellness

Mad Max “Filthy 50” KB Challenge (sample workout)

We’re winding down — the Hero Mode Kettlebell Bundle officially retires at the end of this weekend.

Before it’s gone for good, I wanted to give you one more sample workout from inside the bundle — so you can see exactly what you’re getting.

This one’s from the “Mad Max: Fury Road (Filthy 50 Challenge 2.0)” program.
If you like it, remember: you’ll get the entire 28-day plan built around workouts and themes like this one — plus nine more complete programs.

All for just a few bucks each.
Honestly, it’s one of the best deals I’ve ever put together… and probably one of the best I ever will.

KB Workout 3 – “Filthy 50” Challenge

Perform all reps of each exercise before moving to the next.
Rest as needed to maintain proper form.
Record your time to track progress (and post it in the group if you’d like).

1. Double KB Gorilla Rows – 50 (25/ea side)
(Women: 12k+, Men: 20k+)
→ Sub single-arm Gorilla Row if no doubles; switch sides evenly.

2. KB Goblet Walking Lunges – 50 (25/ea side)

3. KB Swings – 50
(Women: 16k+, Men: 24k+)
→ Go up in weight if you can.

4. Sea Turtles – 50

5. Lateral Hops – 50 (25/ea side)

FINISHER:
Complete 5 rounds as fast as possible of:

  • Hollow Body Flutter Kicks – 10/ea leg
  • KB Plank Drag Through – 10 (5/ea side) (Women: 12k+, Men: 16k+)

That’s just one of the workouts from the Mad Max: Fury Road (Filthy 50 Challenge 2.0) plan — and you’re getting nine more full programs with it:

  1. Thor’s Hammer Strength (1000 Rep Showdown) — raw power + high volume
  2. Superman’s Iron Will (28-Day Upper/Lower Split) — lean muscle + full-body strength
  3. Hobbs’ Muscle Mayhem (28-Day GAINZ Challenge) — mass-building + brute strength
  4. John Wick’s Relentless Pursuit (28-Day AMRAP Challenge) — endurance + stamina
  5. Captain America’s Super Soldier Conditioning (Dirty 30’s Challenge 2.0) — high-intensity + agility
  6. Mad Max Fury Road (Filthy 50 Challenge 2.0) — grit + full-body conditioning
  7. Black Widow’s Agility Training (28-Day PHA Challenge) — flexibility + mobility
  8. Mission: Impossible Mobility (28-Day LAIT Challenge) — body control + functional movement
  9. Rocky’s Recovery Regimen (Kettlebell Training Camp Challenge v2) — mobility + rebuilding
  10. Wolverine’s Healing Factor (Recovery and Rebuilding Challenge) — restoration + regeneration

-> Grab the Hero Mode Kettlebell Bundle Before It’s Gone

Again — this bundle retires after the weekend.
If you’ve ever wanted a big chunk of my kettlebell training library — this is your shot.

– Forest
Master of Science, Human Movement
Kettlebell Expert | Over-40 Training Specialist
KettlebellBasics.net

P.S. Once Hero Mode closes Sunday night, it’s gone for good.
Grab it before it disappears.

John Wick KB AMRAP Challenge

If you like workouts that make you feel unstoppable — calm, focused, and lethal like John Wick — this one’s for you.

It’s straight from the “Relentless Pursuit” (28-Day AMRAP Challenge) inside my Hero Mode Kettlebell bundle, inspired by Keanu Reeves’ training for the role.

This one hits endurance, strength, and mental toughness — the perfect combo for people 40+ who want to build conditioning without breaking down their joints.

John Wick’s Relentless Pursuit – Day 1

Kettlebell AMRAP Workout

Part 1 – 10-Minute AMRAP:

  • 3 Burpees
  • 5 Pull-Ups or 15 Recline Rows or 10 Single-Arm KB Rows per side
    (Women: 8–12k, Men: 16–20k)
  • Single-Arm KB “Thruster” (squat to overhead press) – 5 per side
    (Women: 8–12k, Men: 16–20k)

Part 2 – 10-Minute Ladder:

  • Two-Hand KB Swings – 2/4/6/8/etc.
    (Women: 12–16k, Men: 20–24k)
  • Push-Ups – 2/4/6/8/etc.

Part 3 – Finisher:

  • 5 KB Snatches (right side) → rest 30 sec
  • 5 KB Snatches (left side) → rest 30 sec
  • Repeat 4 rounds total
    (Women: 8–12k, Men: 16–20k)

Track your reps. Try to beat your total next week.

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This is just one of over 120 workouts inside the Hero Mode Kettlebell bundle.

Each program is themed around an iconic action hero — blending strength, endurance, mobility, and recovery — the same qualities that keep you performing like a beast in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.

What You Get Inside the Hero Mode Bundle

10 Complete Training Plans, including:

— Thor’s Hammer Strength (1000 Rep Showdown) — raw power + high volume
— Superman’s Iron Will (28-Day Upper/Lower Split) — lean muscle + full-body strength
— Hobbs’ Muscle Mayhem (28-Day GAINZ Challenge) — mass-building and brute strength
— John Wick’s Relentless Pursuit (28-Day AMRAP Challenge) — endurance + stamina
— Captain America’s Super Soldier Conditioning (Dirty 30’s Challenge 2.0) — high-intensity + agility
— Mad Max Fury Road (Filthy 50 Challenge 2.0) — grit + full-body conditioning
— Black Widow’s Agility Training (28-Day PHA Challenge) — flexibility + mobility
— Mission: Impossible Mobility (28-Day LAIT Challenge) — body control + functional movement
— Rocky’s Recovery Regimen (Kettlebell Training Camp Challenge v2) — mobility + rebuilding
— Wolverine’s Healing Factor (Recovery and Rebuilding Challenge) — restoration + regeneration

Here’s the Deal

I’m retiring my kettlebell bundles.
They’re awesome — but honestly, they’re too good of a deal.

Each program normally sells for $29–$37 — you get all 10 for just a few bucks each.

We already retired the Gladiator Games bundle. It’s gone.
Now it’s Hero Mode’s turn.
After this week, this one disappears forever.

-> Grab the Hero Mode Kettlebell Bundle Before It’s Gone

– Forest
Master of Science, Human Movement
Kettlebell Expert | Over-40 Training Specialist
KettlebellBasics.net

PS – Each of these programs was designed to make you strong, mobile, and resilient — not broken down. If you’ve been waiting to grab this deal, this is it.
PPS – Once Hero Mode retires, it’s gone for good — get your copy now.

Captain America “Dirty 30” KB Strength Chipper

If you want to feel like Captain America — powerful, lean, and athletic — try this workout today.

It’s from my Hero Mode Kettlebell bundle, specifically the “Super Soldier Conditioning” (Dirty 30’s Challenge 2.0) — inspired by Chris Evans’ training for Captain America.

This one’s perfect for people 40+ who want to:

  • Build real-world strength that translates beyond the gym
  • Torch fat while preserving muscle
  • Move better and feel athletic again — without pounding your joints

“Dirty 30” Strength Chipper

Perform all reps of each move before moving on to the next.
Rest as needed to keep good form.
Record your time to track progress.

  1. Double KB Rack Squats – 30 reps (Women: 16k+, Men: 24k+)
  2. 1-Arm Overhead Press – 30 total (15 each side)
  3. Bodyweight Split Squat – 30 total (15 each side)
  4. Hand-to-Hand KB Swing – 30 total (15 each side)
  5. Forward & Back Plank Drag – 15 each side (fwd + back = 1 rep)
  6. Hand-Release Push-Up to Bird Dog – 30 total (15 each side)
  7. KB 1-Arm Row – 30 total (15 each side)
  8. Bodyweight Walking Lunges – 30 total (15 each side)
  9. KB Burpee Deadlift – 30 reps (modify by stepping feet out)
  10. ½ Turkish Get-Up – 30 total (15 each side)

Challenge yourself: Post your time and see if you can beat it next week.

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This is just one of over 120 workouts inside the Hero Mode Kettlebell bundle.

Each program is themed around an iconic action hero — blending strength, endurance, mobility, and recovery — the same qualities that keep you performing like a beast in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.

What You Get Inside the Hero Mode Bundle

10 Complete Training Plans, including:

— Thor’s Hammer Strength (1000 Rep Showdown) — raw power + high volume
— Superman’s Iron Will (28-Day Upper/Lower Split) — lean muscle + full-body strength
— Hobbs’ Muscle Mayhem (28-Day GAINZ Challenge) — mass-building and brute strength
— John Wick’s Relentless Pursuit (28-Day AMRAP Challenge) — endurance + stamina
— Captain America’s Super Soldier Conditioning (Dirty 30’s Challenge 2.0) — high-intensity + agility
— Mad Max Fury Road (Filthy 50 Challenge 2.0) — grit + full-body conditioning
— Black Widow’s Agility Training (28-Day PHA Challenge) — flexibility + mobility
— Mission: Impossible Mobility (28-Day LAIT Challenge) — body control + functional movement
— Rocky’s Recovery Regimen (Kettlebell Training Camp Challenge v2) — mobility + rebuilding
— Wolverine’s Healing Factor (Recovery and Rebuilding Challenge) — restoration + regeneration

Here’s the Deal

I’m retiring my kettlebell bundles.
They’re awesome — but honestly, they’re too good of a deal.

Each program normally sells for $29–$37 — you get all 10 for just a few bucks each.

We already retired the Gladiator Games bundle. It’s gone.
Now it’s Hero Mode’s turn.
After this week, this one disappears forever.

-> Grab the Hero Mode Kettlebell Bundle Before It’s Gone

– Forest
Master of Science, Human Movement
Kettlebell Expert | Over-40 Training Specialist
KettlebellBasics.net

PS – Each of these programs was designed to make you strong, mobile, and resilient — not broken down. If you’ve been waiting to grab this deal, this is it.
PPS – Once Hero Mode retires, it’s gone for good — get your copy now.

15-min “Hero Mode” KB Challenge🦸‍♂️

If you’re short on time but still want a workout that makes you feel like you just stepped into an action movie — try this one today.

It’s called the Hero Mode Flow: Rise and Conquer — a full-body kettlebell complex that hits strength, stability, and conditioning all in one shot!

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15-min “Hero Mode” KB Challenge🦸‍♂️

-> Get the full Hero Mode Kettlebell Bundle Here on last chance “retirement” sale)

(1 round = 1 full flow per side)

Right Side:

  1. Turkish Get-Up — go up to standing
  2. 5 Kettlebell Snatches
  3. 5 Kettlebell Push Press
  4. 5 Kettlebell Rack Squats
  5. Turkish Get-Down — return to the floor

Then switch sides and repeat.

— Rest 60–90 seconds between sides

— Do 2–3 total rounds

This combo builds hero-level power — shoulder stability from the get-up, explosive hips from the snatch, pressing and squat strength through the middle, and total-body control from start to finish.

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Now — a quick heads-up:

I’m retiring my Hero Mode Kettlebell Bundle.

It’s honestly just too good of a deal!

There are 10 full programs in Hero Mode— each normally sells for $29 to $37 — and you’re getting all of them for just a few bucks each.

But, I’m giving folks one last chance to grab it until I shut it down for good.

Learn more at the link below:

-> Get the Hero Mode Kettlebell Bundle Here

Train like an action star — and build the strength, endurance, and body of one, too!

– Forest
Master of Science, Human Movement
Kettlebell Expert | Over-40 Training Specialist
KettlebellBasics.net

Sober Warrior: Four Pillars + 15-Min Kettlebell Workout

Since we opened up the Sober Warrior 30-Day Challenge yesterday for Sober October, I’ve been getting a lot of questions.

I’d like to take a minute to address a few things—and also provide a sample 10-minute kettlebell workout for you to try.

You may or may not know this, but:

  • I’ve been alcohol-free for over 5 years.
  • I’m currently working on a Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling.
  • And my ultimate vision is to combine health, fitness, and sobriety into one powerful system—because I’ve seen firsthand how well they work together.

That’s what the Sober Warrior Challenge is about.
It’s not only for people who want to quit drinking forever—it’s also for anyone who just wants to take a break for 30 days and see how much better they feel.

Inside, you’ll get:

  • One of my most popular kettlebell programs
  • My Feed the Beast nutrition plan
  • My Regenerate mobility and recovery program

Honestly, those bonuses alone are worth more than the registration fee. Check it out here.

But the real strength of this system is in the Four Pillars we focus on every day:

1. Mindset – Daily CBT-inspired action steps to break old patterns. (Example: reframes for handling cravings or social pressure.)

2. Community – A simple online chat where you check in and connect. It’s not as intense as group therapy, but it gives you accountability and support.

3. Movement – Training that builds strength and helps regulate your nervous system. Yes, we lift. But we also walk, do yoga, stretch, and recover.

4. Purpose – Optional, but powerful. Daily reflections (including scripture) to connect this journey to something bigger.

The truth is, research shows the most effective way to quit or cut back is multi-modal—you need more than just willpower. That’s exactly what this challenge is built on.

And, as I said, this isn’t therapy or medical intervention—I have referral resources if that’s what you need. But if you’re looking for a reset that hits body, mind, and spirit, this is it.

Sample 15-Min Kettlebell Circuit

Do three rounds of:

  • 1-Arm KB Swing or Snatch – 20s/side, 40s rest
  • Dead Bug – 20s/side, 20s rest
  • Push-Ups – 20s work, 20s high plank hold, 20s rest
  • KB Goblet Squat – 20s work, 20s hold at bottom, 20s rest
  • Jumping Jacks – 20s work, 40s rest

…then go check out the details and join us here -> Sober Warrior 30-Day Challenge

– Forest Vance, Former Pro Football Player, HardStyle Kettlebell Coach, and Master’s Student in Addiction Counseling

10-Minute Double KB Beast Complex

Want to feel like you just stepped out of the Colosseum? Try this quick kettlebell complex tonight. It’s short, brutal, and ridiculously effective:

Double KB Beast Complex (moderate to heavy weight)

  • Double KB Swing × 8
  • Double KB Clean × 5
  • Double KB Front Squat × 5
  • Double KB Push Press × 5
  • Double KB Gorilla Row × 5

Run 3–4 rounds; rest ~90 sec between.

Coaching tips:

  • Double Swings – You’ll probably need to widen your stance and toe out slightly for clearance.
  • Double Cleans – Think shorter range of motion. Keep the bells low, tight, and close to your frame.
  • Double Front Squat – Start and finish in a solid rack; brace the core hard.
  • Double Push Press – Use a small counter-move (think 1/16th of a squat). Then go slow and controlled on the eccentric.
  • Double Gorilla Row – Stay locked in, keep tension through your whole body.

That’s 7–10 minutes of work, tops. And you’ll finish smoked, but in a good way.

This is the kind of training that inspired the Gladiator Gainz KB Challenge — not just random workouts, but carefully built systems to help you gain strength, drop fat, and keep your body resilient.

The kicker? This bundle is going away for good after this run. 10 complete programs (normally $370+) for the price of one.

Grab your copy here -> Gladiator Gainz KB Challenge – Final Run

Conquer this complex tonight — then take on the full challenge.

— Forest Vance — M.S. Human Movement | Master Kettlebell Instructor — Owner, FVT Warrior Wellness and Personal Training

18-Min “Ageless Gladiator” KB Workout ⚔️

On a trip to England a while back, my wife and I spent a day wandering through the city of Bath.

One thing that really stood out to me the most was the ancient Roman baths. These hot springs were where soldiers (and maybe even gladiators) came to recover after long campaigns and brutal battles.

As I walked through those ruins, I thought about the mindset of those warriors. And that’s the same idea behind today’s “Ageless Gladiator” Kettlebell Workout. It’s short, efficient, and designed for individuals who want to stay ahead, regardless of their age. In just 18 minutes, you’ll challenge your strength, build endurance, and finish feeling like you conquered the arena!

Here’s the workout:

  • Work for 40 seconds per exercise, then rest for 20 seconds.
  • Do all moves once, rest 60 seconds, then repeat for three rounds total.

Exercises:

  1. KB Goat Bag Swing → 2-Hand Swing → 1-Arm Swing (20 sec each side)
  2. Plank Hold → Plank March
  3. Bodyweight Lunge → KB Tactical Lunge (switch legs each rep)
  4. Single-Arm KB Row (20 sec per side)
  5. Modified Up-Downs → Regular Up-Downs

Notes:

  • Each line goes beginner → advanced.
  • Start light, focus on form, and progress as you get stronger.

And if you liked this sample workout, you’ll love the full Gladiator’s Edge Kettlebell system. You’ll get this complete 28-day plan, plus 9 more just like it — all at a 90% discount. But this is your last call – after this final run, the program comes down for good:

-> Ageless Gladiator + 9 More 28-Day KB Plans @ 90% Off (final run)​

Conquer your training like the gladiators once did — but in way less than an hour a day.

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Did you ever watch Gladiator with Russell Crowe?

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.

With this program, you will:

  • Build gladiator-level strength and muscle
  • Drop fat and boost endurance
  • Stay strong and pain-free with recovery-focused routines
  • Challenge yourself with unique approaches like EMOMs and German Volume Training

Now, here’s the part I want to be upfront about:

This bundle is going away after this final run.

The reason is simple — it’s honestly too good of a deal. Each program normally sells on my site for $29–$37, and there are 10 total inside. That’s $370+ of content. But in this bundle, it works out to just a few bucks each.

So, I don’t plan on offering programs this cheap again.

If you’ve been thinking about it, this is your final chance.

-> Gladiator GAINZ KB Challenge [final run]​

Take it, run with it, and let it fuel your own training — the way a gladiator prepared for the arena!

– Forest