So what is a kettlebell anyway? Kettlebells are circular cast iron weights with kettle-shaped handles. What makes them so effective is that the weight is below the handle, which means that when you move the weight around, your whole body has to work extra harder.

Many gyms have kettlebells now, but they are also easy to find at stores like Target and Wal-Mart. Here are 4 effective exercises that will ease you into working out with kettlebells.

Like free weights, kettlebells come in a variety of weights. Start with a smaller weight - 5 to 8 pounds and then adjust the weight after trying a few practice runs. If you feel any pain while performing these exercises, stop immediately.

The Swing - Works your shoulders, back, hips, glutes and inner thighs

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding the kettlebell in both hands.

1. Squat down until your thighs are almost parallel to the ground.
2. Immediately stand back up, swinging the kettle ball out in front of you and up, until it reaches shoulder height.
3. As the ball begins to lower back down, squat back down, swinging the kettlebell between your legs.

Do 1-2 sets of 10 reps.

The Deadlift - Works your abs, glutes, hips and legs

1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and toes turned out by 45 degrees.. Hold your head up and look straight ahead.
2. Place the kettlebell on the floor between your feet.
   
3. Squat down and grab the handle and then push your heels into the floor and stand up.

Do 1-2 sets of 10 reps.

The Twist - Works abs, shoulders and arms

1. Lay on your back with your knees bent and feet touching the floor - like in a situp position.
2. Lean back slightly and contract your abs.
3. Grasp the kettlebell with both hands on one side of your hip and move it across your body to the other side of your hip.
   

Do 1-2 sets of 10 reps.

The Squat-Press -  Works shoulder, arms, hips, back, glutes and hamstrings

1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and toes turned out by 45 degrees.
2. Place the kettlebell on the floor between your feet.
3. Squat down, pick up the weight and lift it up chest height as you return to a standing position.
4. Holding the lower sides of the handles, push the kettlebell straight up over your head.
   
5. Lower kettlebell back down to your chest and move hands back to a top grip position on the handle.

Do 1-2 sets of 10 reps.