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February 5, 2007
Can kettlebells relieve allergy symptoms?
"I live in the Houston area where there are large quantities of airborne pollutants as well as mold, mildew, and pollen." says Jay Armstrong, 5th Dan, RKC. "About 12 years ago I began having recurring sinus infections. These infections occurred about every 2 to 3 months and required antibiotics to make them go away. After a series of tests I was informed I had numerous allergies. I began taking various allergy medications such as Sudafed, Actifed, Claritin, and Allegra-D. These medications generally made my sinuses, eyes, and mouth dry. The sinus infections decreased but I still had 2 or 3 per year.
"I have been swinging kettlebells for about 1-1/2 years now and I don’t remember having a sinus infection in the entire time. In addition, I stopped taking the allergy medications about a year ago. (I was taking an anti-inflammatory for knee pain and did not want to take more than one medication.)
"I have spoken to several health care professionals about this phenomenon and everyone is in general agreement. I am having less sinus problems because of the specific breathing REQUIRED by kettlebell lifting.
"In order to pressurize the abdomen for heavy lifts one must FORCEFULLY inhale through the nose. In order to put air into the lungs when a heavy kettlebell is overhead one must FORCEFULLY inhale through the nose. This SNIFFING technique aerates the many tiny passages in the sinus cavity. In addition, phlegm that would otherwise stay in the sinuses is pulled down into the throat and cleared out.
"Less sinus infections and NO ALLERGY MEDICATION is like a miracle for me. Perhaps it is merely a strange coincidence but I don’t think so. If you have allergy problems GIVE KETTLEBELLS and kettlebell breathing a try. Everyday I am more amazed by the benefits of practicing with kettlebells!
Russian kettlebell power and health to you!
To learn more about Kettlebells and Pavel's Kettlebell programs click herePosted by james at February 5, 2007 3:35 PM