People often ask if it's better to train with single or double kettlebells.
Usually, they already own a few bells, maybe a 16kg and a 20kg, and they're wondering what to buy next.
Do they buy another 20kg to train with doubles, or jump to 24kg for heavier singles?
Let me lay out the key factors that will guide your decision.
Beginner's Gains
Initially, you'll make rapid progress with kettlebells, especially if you're new to strength training.
These beginner gains can last for months or even up to a couple of years.
You'll outgrow your kettlebells quickly, sometimes within just a few months of consistent training.
This fact will affect how you approach buying new kettlebells and choosing weights for your training.
One at a Time
During this growth phase, you'll be adding kettlebell weights one at a time.
And yes, buying new equipment is genuinely fun, trust me on this.
For example, you might start with 16kg and 20kg, then add a 24kg as you progress.
Each weight serves a distinct purpose in your training arsenal.
Your lighter bells handle warm-ups, mobility work, and technique practice: halos, windmills, and bent presses.
The middle weights carry the bulk of your training load: cleans, presses, and snatches.
Your heaviest bell pushes your limits with the most demanding movements: swings, deadlifts, and front squats.
Why to Use Double
But at some point, you may decide to start doing double kettlebell exercises.
And there are good reasons for that.
First, double the weight means more effective training results.
Research shows that total lifted volume significantly correlates with strength and muscle gains.
Second, two kettlebells place unique demands on your body that cannot be achieved with just one.
For example, pressing two kettlebells requires much more core tension and stability, leading to superior upper body development.
Therefore, some of your training should definitely include double kettlebells.
When to Use Double
The biggest question remains: at what point should you buy a second kettlebell of the same weight?
As we discussed, initially your training weights will increase rapidly.
But eventually you'll reach a point where you'll spend considerable time using the same weights.
This is when you should introduce doubles.
Let's say you have 16kg, 20kg, 24kg, and 28kg.
Most of your upper body work uses the 24kg.
That's the perfect moment to purchase another 24kg and start doing double exercises.
Training Programs
These are some of the most effective programs that use double kettlebells:
- Dry Fighting Weight - Build serious strength through clean and press ladders
- Armor Building Complex - Combine cleans, presses, and squats for total-body power
- Double KB Military Press - Focus on pure upper body strength development
- 15-Day Kettlebell Complex Challenge - Test your conditioning with daily complex workouts
Start Your Journey
Start with singles to build a solid foundation, then strategically add doubles when you've stabilized at certain weights.
Ready to follow a structured program that adapts to your equipment?
Check out our Kettlebell Craft Training app where you can perform these programs and track your stats.
We have programs for both single and double kettlebell training, so you can progress at your own pace with the equipment you have.