Getting started in Kettlebell training

The learning curve for kettlebell training depends to a degree on your previous exercise experiences. If you are an experienced weight training enthusiast you may have an advantage over a previous non weight trained individual, but probably not to the degree that you may first believe.
When I applied to do my kettlebell training course, I made the decision to purchase a 20 kg bell before hand so as not to be a complete novice whilst on the course.
I was slightly taken aback when the the 20 kg lump of iron arrived at my door. (as was the delivery driver)You absolutely can not compare the kettlebell to that of an equivilent weighted dumbbell. The initial thought of swinging this thing around was a little bit intimidating but nonetheless I did the whole youtube thing and got some instruction.
My first attempts at swinging the kettlebell were worrying to say the least, tense in all the wrong places and generally swinging something that was just too heavy for me. I quickly found out that it doesn't matter if you're a former bodybuilder or not (as I am), in fact whatever your back ground, when it comes to kettlebells,if you haven't swung one before, you're a beginner, simple as, and never believe otherwise.
Now there are some great youtube 'how to's' out there (examples, DV8fitness.com with Phil Scarito and averagetoelite.com) but using youtube will only get you so far. If you want to learn kettlebells properly you need to seek out a personal trainer with a kettlebell qualification.
I decided to leave the 20 kg kettlebell well alone. It was too heavy and I would probably be learning bad technique anyhow.
So, on to the course. (kettlebell training academy) A very intensive weekend which certainly gave me enough information and guidance to get me on my way to being an accomplished kettlebell lifter.
I didn't totally 'get it' over the weekend but I was close enough. Now this is where the youtube video's really helped. Using them for brushing up on your technique works really well, and that's the thing 'brushing up' on your technique and not using it as your sole source of learning.
Now one year on, I have surprised myself with the progress that I have made. I recently completed the RKC snatch test in 4 minutes and 40 seconds and have established a very reasonable level of general conditioning.
So, in conclusion, Don't start swinging those bells before you have had some proper instruction, Use a sensible size kettlebell and whatever your background, remember you're a beginner.

I've included my RKC Snatch test video here. 4.40 was my time. It's brutally hard but very satisfying to do.
I hope this article has been helpful for you.
Thanks for reading.