My first challenge when I started lifting kettlebells was my grip. This was definitely the weak link and none of my previous weight training prepared me for it. Also, the Kettlebell ripped up my hands, forming blisters immediately and eventually leading to some minor skin tears. If pretty hands are a priority, thin leather gloves are permissible, but should otherwise be avoided. To gradually build up the toughness in my hands, I did the first part of my workout with the handle wrapped in a paper towel. As I progressed, my time with the paper towel decreased and eventually became unnecessary. Also, filing down the calluses with a pumice stone helps quite a bit. The idea is to keep them flat and smooth so that the kettlebell does not catch on them and cause a blister or tear. I also recommend filing them while your hands are dry, this seems to toughen them up more than using the pumice stone in the shower. The second problem people seem to encounter is that the bell comes around and smacks into their forearm. My wrist was sore for the first few workouts, but eventually my technique improved and it was no longer an issue. Also, I developed a thicker patch of ligaments and tendons where the KB collides with my wrist. You can actually see that the ligiaments have become thicker!
As for the routine, follow the guidelines provided in the video. More detailed instructions on designing routines can be found in the book, which I recommend you memorize. In general, for losing weight and gaining endurance, train with more reps per set and keep the rest periods short. For strength, keep the reps per set low and rest until you are fresh for the next set. Integrating kettlebell training with other types of training can be done quite easily as well. The general guideline is that you should do your strength workouts before your fatigue inducing workouts. Bodyweight exercises can be plugged in as well. If you need more advice on constructing a routine, check out the Dragon Door discussion board. People regularly post their routines and offer advice on tweaking your routine. It is an excellent resource and quite fun. Check out Vic's FAQ, too, for a great intro to the board. Finally, get together with a group of people if you want to shorten the learning curve. Whether you are all beginners or have an experienced guide, this is a great way to make sure that you are on the right track to becoming an experienced girevik.
Lastly, do not be afraid to try kettlebell training. Men and women of all ages have had incredible success with it, just check out the diverse crowd on the forum and listen to their stories. Better general health is the main reason for people to start. Weight loss and lower resting heart rates are quite common results of proper training. Injuries are certainly possible, but the risks of training are minor in comparison to the risks of a sedentary lifestyle. Kettlebell lifting is also more likely to prevent injuries than cause them, so there is no excuse not to get started. If you pay attention to form and use your head, safety and performance will come together. It is the best training on the planet and versatile enough to fit anyone's goals, so go for it!