Zar Horton
Senior RKC Instructor

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHANGE

Rated 10 out of 10

I remember the day that I talked to Zar about my concerns for my health. 5'7" 205 lbs, unable to do more than 1 pullup at a time, talking to Zar and listening to him go on about Kettlebells I thought "what the heck I'll give it a shot." Two years ago is when I finally got serious about my lack of constant activity in my life. I started a workout lifestyle with Zar that continues to this day. I'm 41 years old and I feel better than when I was in High School. Zar has a way of making this "new" form of fitness very user friendly. Ive seen him work with gym-rats who have years of weight lifting experience and I've seen him work with people who have never been active. I believe he can reach anyone. I am very proud of the goals I've reached and every day I'm setting new ones. I tell anyone that will listen, Zar is an awesome instructor and he will change your life. Thanks Z! Bryan Pacheco - Albuquerque, NM USA

If you like to Sweat!

Rated 10 out of 10

My first experience with kettlebells was a demo that Zar Horton did during a meeting at a fitness and weight loss challenge I participated in. I was intrigued and intimidated. Zar did a demo of the swing, TGU and other moves he described as cornerstone to kettlebells. I watched with amazement, but considering my physical fitness and obesity, I did not even consider it as a possibility for me. I stored the information and figured I would take it up when I dropped another 20-40 pounds. I was shocked when my trainer told me there was an Introduction to Kettlebells class being offered by Zar and I should take it. I wasn't sure. I spoke to Zar and he assured me that he had every confidence that I could do kettlebells and that he would make sure I felt comfortable and successful. Well, I have been training consistently now with Zar for 5 months and the results have been nothing short of amazing! I am losing weight faster doing bells than I did doing anything else. Not only that, but bell workouts have literally changed my life. Before bells I struggled with constant knee pain and confidence using weights but working with Zar and kettlebells has drastically reduced my joint pain. I can feel and see the results of my efforts every week. I am stronger and leaner with every passing day. Aside from all of the great results I am having training with Zar, I enjoy training with him because he is RKC and it shows. Zar has extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology; plus his background as a paramedic seems to give him that something extra with kettlebell training. Zar is great at explaining, modifying and pacing kettlebell sessions in a manner that is appropriate for each student. He is always making sure my form and technique is spot on so that I do not get hurt and continue to be successful. Zar works out with me as though my goals are his and I am well on my way to losing another 60+ pounds with kettlebells. Training with Zar has been nothing but positive. This maybe a bit esoteric, I do not know if it is Zar, or the bells or a combination of the two, but training kettlebells with Zar is a Zen experience like I have had with no other trainer or workout regime and I absolutely love it! M Diener - Albuquerque, NM USA

Knowledgeable and freindly

Rated 10 out of 10

So a little background. I have been using kettlebells for about 6-8 weeks and felt that I was doing ok. But having injured myself in the past doing other sports I wanted to darn sure I was using proper form before I got to far in my kettlebell regimen. So I contact Zar and his team at firebellz.com to see about skipping the beginner class seminar and jumping right into their intermediate seminar. After a few emails they agreed and I made the 100 mile drive to Albuquerque to see them. The intermediate class was very informational. Its one thing to see a video on how to perform a move, its quite another to have an instructor teach you the subtle little tricks in person. Zar was able to immediately pick out where I was going wrong with my snatches. I went from banging my forearm repeatedly to never banging them. w00t! At no time were they rude or condescending; No elitist attitude here, just some good honest instruction. At the end of the class, those that are local can even get a key to the gym, now how cool is that? I really wish I didn't drive 100 miles to see these guys, but I have no doubt that I will be making the trek to Albuquerque for another one of their seminars. Sean Leffler - Los Alamos, NM USA

Quality Instruction

Rated 10 out of 10

This was my first time with kettlebells. I was a little nervous going in, but Zar (and Heidi) immediately made the whole class comfortable by displaying their knowledge of the kettlebell system as well as their friendly, relaxed approach to instruction. Zar spent time with each student to ensure the proper technique was being used. He obviously enjoys what he is doing and believes in the kettlebell system. Larry Ritter - Albuquerque, NM USA

Intro to a new training tool

Rated 10 out of 10

In a recent introductory course w/ Zar (and Heidi) instructing I found that many questions about the kettleball were quickly and easily answered. Focus on safe and correct technique made the class a must do for anyone thinking about adding kettleball workouts into their lifestyle. The instruction was fun and the 3 hour course went quickly. Today i am a bit sore but ready to get right back in and practice the skills that were presented and excited about coming back to gain some additional skills! K. Sheldahl - Albuquerque NM

Fantastic instructor

Rated 10 out of 10

I started with Zar 2 1/2 years ago and could barely handle the 4 kilo kettlebell. Couldn't do snatches due to dislocating shoulders and had very little stamina. Now I am swinging 16k one handed, doing snatches with 12k and enjoying myself no end. He has been great at coming up with exercises when I have needed to strengthen muscle groups for my endurance riding or belly dancing and has had the patience to wait while my muscles strengthened up. Highly recommend having lessons with him. Deborah D. Hollis - Tijeras, NM

Top Notch Trainer!!!

Rated 10 out of 10

Approximately two years ago, I purchased a RKB along with an early instructional dvd. I used it on occasion to help mix up my other workout routine. I thought that I had a fairly good idea of proper form. I would occasionally phone Zar with KB questions and he would politely answer my questions. He then started inviting me to class. I really did not feel that using KB as a base workout would be enough to reach my goals, I could not have been more wrong. It turned out to be more that enough. I finally went to FireBellz where Zar taught me proper form. He demonstrated the fundamental movements of the KB and had me practice them until I was able to do them correctly. He said that it is the little things that make the difference in my technique. I learned that the reason I was not getting the most out of RKB was my improper mechanics! As I drove away from the gym I thought, wow I really like RKB training! Since then, I have replaced many of the other workouts with RKB training. I have noticed my overall strength increase quite a bit. Zar is doing a great job at promoting the concepts of RKB training. He was very patient, knowledgeable and enthusiastic during my training session. I plan to attend his classes on a regular basis. Thank You Zar. David Castillo - Albuquerque, New mexico

Taking It To The Next Level

Rated 10 out of 10

Over a year ago I read about Zar Horton and his kettlebell workouts in a local fitness newsletter and decided to check it out since I enjoy staying active and something new always intriques me. At first I thought the most basic movement, the swing, was somewhat awkward and strange, but after the first couple sessions with Zar, I was totally hooked on what kettlebells could do for me and how much I needed to change my way of working with my body to fix all the problems I had created and exacerbated over the years. Zar is able to see the problems, explain the movements needed in every region of the body and show by example how to execute them the right way. He is always willing to listen and work with you when a special situation requires it and is a task master when poor form needs to be corrected. His overly friendly nature and easy going manner make everyone in the room feel comfortable and at ease while at the same time he takes his training very seriously and wants everyone to make every session better than the last one. I have a job where I sit in front of a computer most of the day. Between too many years of that and various athletic activities on my days off, my lower back and one shoulder have felt the wear and tear, especially in the evening and when getting up in the morning. After a couple months of continuous kettlebell workouts with Zar, I felt amazing relief in my back and shoulder along with all the other benefits of additional strength, stamina and changes in the way my body looks. Zar continues to be a source of unending kettlebell knowledge, a physical example of what kettlebells can do for the body and a friend to everyone he takes under his tutelage at Firebellz. I wish him all the best in his quest to become one of the masters in the world of kettlebell training and I am sure he will do it. Trudy Eberhardt - Albuquerque, NM

Wow,what a workout!!!!

Rated 10 out of 10

Having gotten away from swimming regularly and just walking my dogs for exercise,I am somewhat out of shape(LOL) The ignition class with Zar Horton and Heidi Rothenberg was awesome!!!! Their knowledge,personal ,friendly instruction and encouragement is beyond words!!! I am tired after the three hour ignition class yet I feel energized also. I am looking forward to continuing this experience to get into shape for the first time inmy life. Thanks Zar and Heidi. Patrick Phelps - Albuquerque, NM USA

the joy of Kettlebells

Rated 10 out of 10

In the process of getting tired of and bored with dumbbells and other exercise, I discovered Kettlebells by chance in a newspaper article. Zar guided my aging body safely and introduced me to Kettlebells...so the dumbbells are out in the garage and there will be no turning back. What a change! A solid aerobic workout and great strength improvement. Such a beautiful low-tech simplicity; workout at home; no gym needed and carry it with you. Zar was patient and was great to work with - he developed a personal routine to meet my needs. And, importantly, he introduced me to the fun of Kettlebells and how you can develop your own personalized routine drawing from the repertoire he taught me. So if you want a knowledgeable, skilled instructor, who with humor and great ability can work with you to design a personal Kettlebell routine...look no further. This can totally alter your life and bring you to new levels of fitness. And, especially if you are older, run, don't walk to Zar's classes or individual instruction. Don't wait - change your life now. David Percival - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Uplifted!!!!!!

Rated 10 out of 10

I am really excited to write this review! I just recently joined the ABQ Fire Dept., and Zar was very instrumental in my decision. I had a pretty extensive athletic career that stretched into my late 20's, but at 36 I was under the illusion that my abilities would always be there. Boy, was I wrong! Within 5 weeks of the training academy I suffered a devastating injury to my hamstring--a complete rupture and some pretty serious knee issues. Thanks to a very understanding and knowledgeable academy staff, they allowed me to work with Zar, and under his guidance I was able to complete the entire 18 week process. This ,however, was not without a price and for the next year I struggled to complete the remaining probationary requirements, specifically a 1.5 mile timed run. Needless to say, with my job on the line (the best job in the world!), and my family's security in jeapordy, I sunk into a deep pit of anxiety and despair. Once again I went to see Zar and he never hesitated to help. He shared his time, knowledge, and equipment with me and even held private sessions AFTER his regular classes! He gave me a special diet regime and at-home workouts and called to monitor my progress.......it was above and beyond to say the least. Zar helped me to re-connect mind, body, and spirit. Well, at my last attempt to secure my job I went out to run that "impossible" 1.5 mile run................ I PASSED!!!!!!!!! A full 45 seconds under!!!!!!! It was amazing! A kettlebell is just a hunk of metal, but with Zar's expertise, determination and patience, it transformed my life. I can't say enough to thank Zar......and I do believe there is a spritual aspect to all of this. I tried weights, electro stimulation, accupuncture, but NOTHING gave me the results of the kettlebells. Thank you Zar and I believe what you gave to me will return to you a hundredfold!!!!!! John M. McGee - Albuquerque, NM USA

Tough, patient and thorough

Rated 10 out of 10

Zar was the lead instructor for a kettlebell seminar for a group of firefighters in Connecticut. His energetic and enthusiastic teaching style was a welcome change from the usual "do this and do that" approach. He took the time to explain how each step is performed. He also explained the purpose and importance of each step. He had plenty of patience with those of us who needed a little extra guidance and he and his fellow instructors took the time to make sure we did things properly and safely. His teaching style made it fun and interesting. He also showed how kettlebell training can be applied to firefighting to allow us to work better, harder, and safer with less chance of injuries. Thank you, Zar, for putting me on track for a safer career and a healthier life. Christopher Riccio - Trumbull, CT USA

An Excellant Instructor

Rated 10 out of 10

Zar was a lead instructor for a 2 day introductory RKC seminar geared towards firefighters. I am a 50 year old lifelong athlete, and 25 year career firefighter. Physically I feel I am at a crossroad in my life. My workout routines and sports are not doing what they used to do. I have "retired" from the contact sports that have known my whole life, and was looking for an appropriate physical challenge. After this weekend I know I have found a new and healthy direction for my fitness. I can directly attribute this new found direction to Zar and the other instructors that lead us in this weekend's seminar. As trained and certified fire service instructor I can definitely appreciate the talent Zar possesses not only in his physical skill and knowledge in kettle bell training, but also greatly respect his teaching ability. Zar's enthusiasm and desire for student success shines through all aspects of his instruction. I can honestly recommend Zar as an instructor for anyone desiring the highest quality training possible. Stephen Curry - CT USA

Great!

Rated 10 out of 10

Zar was excellent. Not only did he know endless information and proper techniques, he was very organized while doing it. Very enthusiastic and informative. I enjoyed meeting him and picking his brain for everything he knew about fitness. I would suggest anyone who meets him to ask as many questions as you can. You may never meet anyone like him again. Thanks Zar! Craig---Attended KB Seminar in CT - Boston, MA

TRUTH OF FITNESS!

Rated 10 out of 10

I recently had the honor of instructing a kettlebell seminar with zar, and the whole experience blew me away, Zar is a wealth of knowledge his attention to detail is scary, everymovement perfect every teaching technique far more advanced then the next, perfection in kettlebells is tough to achieve but with Zars teaching techniques, it's simple! The lessons i learned this weekend far exceeded my own expectations, it was first class, it was teaching kettlebells the right way, where results will be MAGNIFIED and outlook on life will be changed! While at this seminar, i first hand watched zar take a man with a shoulder problem, ( no range of motion above his head for the last 10 yrs ) using one of his many tools (z health) had this guy with full range of motion in less than 5 min. was truly amazing if i didn't see it with my own two eyes would not have believed it! Firebellz as a whole with Zars pursuit of perfection has to be considered one of, if not the best and advanced training facilities in the world! With everyone looking for the solution to fitness and wellbeing, stop looking you found it in zar and his crew at firebellz- ZAR HORTON IS TRULY THE TRUTH IN FITNESS! stop lying to yourself and go see the TRUTH! THANKS ZAR! JOHN SLATTERY RKC II ATLANTIC CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT RESCUE 1 SPEC. OPS John Slattery - Atlantic City, New Jersey

All around awesome, hands down.

Rated 10 out of 10

I started training with Zar a 3 years ago to help me correct my improper technique that I had learned from a video...stupid idea, I don't recommend trying it. Zar ironed out the kinks, helped me find, fix and eliminate my problems, and made me a true kettlebell addict. Thanks to Zar, I have increased my strength, changed my body, and become a certified russian kettlebell instructor. I could not have done it with out him. Thank you Zar. Keira Newton RKCII Dynamic Kettlebell Fitness - Santa fe, NM

EYE OPENER

Rated 10 out of 10

In February 2009 I was able to get in a RKC class in Connecticut, led by Zar. Before the class I was told the head instructor was intense and well knowledged. After about ten minutes I understood what they meant. Zar knew how to talk to the sometimes thick firefighters he was working with. He worked us, taught us and opened our eyes to a whole new way of working out. The bell has changed my entire workout and I feel better than I have in years all thanks to Zar and his team. After the first day I was tight , aching and hating the team but after well versed talk and some great stretching I was back and ready to go. Zar had the right answers to all my questions and to some I didn't ask but he knew by watching me. I had a right shoulder problem but after some extra work with Zar , I was felling better and ready to go on at full throttle. Now, a month later, I am stronger, leaner and talking up the bells and Zar to my fellow firefighters in the area, all the way to FDNY.I can't thank Zar enough for showing me the way of RKC. Thanks again. Michael Wydra - Orange, Ct.

Great Teacher and Communicator

Rated 10 out of 10

Yesterday I was lucky enough to attend a workshop with Zar. I'm finding that great teachers have an infectious passion about their fields. Like my own KB Instructor, Kiera Newton in Santa Fe, Zar's energy and enthusiasim is contagious. He is a consumate professional and has the ability to communicate every nuance of a move so that you instantly 'get it' and realize the potential. I can't imagine anyone not benefiting from and enjoying time spent under his instruction. Alex G. - Santa Fe, NM USA

Exceptional Instructor!

Rated 10 out of 10

Earlier this month, I traveled from Iowa to Santa Fe, New Mexico to attend an advanced workshop hosted by Keira Newton of Dynamic Kettlebell Fitness, taught by Zar Horton. Over the years, Keira has told me much of Zar's training ability and technique and I made the arduous trip back home to attend his workshop: I was not disappointed. Not only was Zar incredibly friendly, warm, patient and fully attentive, he had a room of 13 people doing sots presses with relative ease in a short amount of time. At the workshop, I learned that he would be teaching at the April RKC, which I am attending as a student. We chatted about the certification a bit, when he offered to give some personal one on one training the next day. I was thrilled! Keira and I drove to Albuquerque to his Firebellz studio, where we worked on several form glitches I have. I have to say that Zar offered new and different ways in thinking about the foundational kettlebell moves and was so patient and his attention was completely focused on my training. I felt elated to have had his Team Leader expertise critique the way in which I train and he offered me new and better ways to approach my kb certification. Not only was he exceptionally helpful to my training, he offered to help with no notice and because I was only in town a short period of time, made me a priority on a whim. Zar is a kettlebell expert with a plethora of tools to help the novice and the more advanced kettlebell student, embark on a Russian Kettlebell Journey. Thanks Zar!! Sunny Schultz - Mount Vernon, IA

A Great Instructor

Rated 10 out of 10

I came to kettlebells with a friend who has been training for a few months. I was a litle afraid because I had seen so many people who were so muscular and "bulgy" but Zar was an amazing instructor. He really showed the basics and made me totally comfortable right away. He was great at making sure we were training safely and he made everyone in the class very at ease within minutes. I really encourage anyone to give this a try. I will definitely be back and keep training. I can't say enough about how great Zar was with this instruction and have already reccommended it to other friends and family members. Vicki Seals - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Excellent Team Leader

Rated 10 out of 10

I had the pleasure of assisting Zar at the April 2009 RKC in St Paul, MN. It was a great experience. Zar is top notch in teaching everything about Russian Kettlebells. I would recommend him to anyone. If you are just starting out with kettlebells, have injuries that concern you or have been training with kb's for years Zar will find ways to improve your skills, and get you to a higher level. If you are in his area do yourself a favor and train with Zar. You will learn a lot and probably change your life. Drew Freeman - St Paul, MN

Very Knowledgeable

Rated 10 out of 10

Zar was my team leader for the April 09 RKC certification and it was the best experience I've had. Zar was so knowledgeable about the body and how it operates so he was easily able to make corrections and recommendations on how to improve my form. He had an eye for details that make a big difference in the overall movements we were doing so I was able to see more results. On top of all this he was just a great guy, very humble and approachable so I was encouraged to seek feedback and to continue improving myself and my technique. Ryan Blackburn - Orlando, FL

Zar Rocks!

Rated 10 out of 10

I had the pleasure of working with Zar at the April 2009 RKC as an assistant instructor. He is an excellent, by the RKC book instructor. He worked well with everyone on our team and made their RKC experience unique and satisfying. I would highly recommend him to anyone in search of a highly motivated kettlebell instructor. He works well with beginners as well as world class athletes and delivers results. Joe Pavel, RKC II - Cottage Grove, MN

RKC April 2009

Rated 10 out of 10

I recently certified in my home base Minneapolis/St Paul,MN April 2009 RKC. My team leader Zar Horton was outstanding. He had a positive attitude with firm correctives. I perfected my movement with a safe handling of the kettlebell. I fired muscles that weekend I didn't know I had and came out stronger then than ever! I started out my training with a fantastic trainer, and ended my journey with a inspiring contagious,energetic, individual! I powered thru the RKC and I passed! Thank you Zar! BTW thanks for the ice , you saved me. Roxanne Altmeyer , RKC - Minneapolis,MN

The people's champ

Rated 10 out of 10

After having Zar as my team leader at the 2009 April RKC, I have become a better girevik. Prior to the RKC, I have watched videos on certain exercises and believed I was performing them correctly until the RKC. Zar had such a keen eye to form and attention to detail that I felt truly humble to be under his guidance. Zar is very passionate about the RKC and it shows in his instruction and attitude. I still hear him coaching me while I swing to this day! The RKC was truly a great and unforgettable experience to me. I owe much of that experience to Zar. Edward Edelinski, RKC - Gulfport/Biloxi, MS USA

Sky's the limit!

Rated 10 out of 10

I had the luxury of meeting Zar at the 2009 April RKC in St. Paul. To be honest, the first thing that caught my attention about him, was his name. I thought, "That's a bad ass name!" His knowledge and passion for KBs though, is even more bad ass! Like I said, he's very passionate in what he does and I feel I have that same passion when it comes to fitness and helping others feel better about themselves, so I knew I had to get to know him. He is the type of guy that will go out of his way to help someone reach their goals and potential. I highly recommend him to anyone that wants to take their fitness to the next level. Power to you! Nelson Alvarado, RKC - Waterbury, CT

Outstanding Instructor

Rated 10 out of 10

Zar's one of the best fitness trainers I've seen in almost 20 years of fitness training. Besides his obvious expertise as a self-professed "gym rat", his ability to instruct is top-notch. I had the good fortune to attend a recent session at Firebellz with Zar and his partners Heidi and Charles that consisted of kettlebells, mobility, strength training and all around "kick your butt" stamina work. Without a doubt, that was two of the hardest hours of my life. The intensity was perfect, and their skill in keeping the training safe, in control and in perfect form was impressive for a class that size (about 20). If you're looking for a challenge, if you want to learn kettlebells, and if you want to get better, Zar, Heidi, and Charles should be your first choice in Albuquerque. Mark O'Reilly - Albuquerque, NM

My first introduction to kettlebells...

Rated 10 out of 10

Wow... It's hard to explain my first experience with kettlebells with an instructor like Zar. It wasnt what i expected at all but definitely in a good way! This mans knowledge on not only kettlebells but of the human body, and every in depth detail as to why any stretch, body movement, or workout material works is amazing. The man is an awesome trainer and i am extremely fortunate to have met him and get training from him.. It was definitely a life changer!! Thanks Zar! Travis Jacobs - Fort Worth, Tx USA

THE THEZARUS

Rated 10 out of 10

Zar Horton is one word, "amazing"! I had the pleasure of having him as one of my Team Leaders at April RKC, and to have him do seminars with my company Platinum Performance RKC, at my gym One On One Training in Fort Worth, TX. What I learned from him that weekend, was not only priceless information in kettlebell knowledge, but platinum knowledge about what it is to be a true man in life! Top notch Team Leader Instructor with a few others no doubt. I am still trying to digest all the knowledge from last weekend that my head hurts, as well as my whole body. Some of his tweaks, even being a RKC myself, improved my power dramatically. If you want one of the best RKC trainers in the world, then you have found him with Zar Horton. My nickname for him is the THEZARUS from all his Kettlebell knowledge as well as his proficiency with Z-Health! Bryan Boyd RKC Cooper Elite Bryan Boyd RKC - Fort Worth, Texas USA

Got me hooked on kettlebells

Rated 10 out of 10

This year I got myself in shape with P90X and through others doing it got interested in kettlebells. Not wanting to hurt myself (especially my back) I found Zar and Firebellz through the Dragon Door instructor reviews. On May 29 2009 I had my first private class with Zar on the basics of kettlebells. I thought I was in pretty good shape but found the swings and get-ups really worked me hard. Zar was patient and explained each movement, showed me how to do it right, and corrected my form (still need to sometimes). He explained things in several ways to find a method that "clicked" for me. When I explained my old back injuries and some mild discomfort he ran me through some Z-Health drills to work out the kinks. I've gone back for several more private training sessions and started taking a basic kettlebell bootcamp at his studio (the bootcamp are the variety days for my ETK Rite of Passage now). The bootcamp workouts are awesome and burn through 700+ calories in an hour according to my heart rate monitor. All the while my back has been getting stronger and not causing me trouble. I'm now totally hooked and will attend the HKC in September and plan to go for the RKC next year. With Zar's training I'm sure I'll pass. Robert Stehwien - Albuquerque, NM USA

Here to stay!

Rated 10 out of 10

I first met Zar and Heidi during the ignition class in 2008. After attending that class, life got in the way and I did not continue with kettlebell. After many life changes I e-mailed Zar and Heidi to schedule a 1-on-1 training session. They are both very supportive of my goals; weight loss and increased fitess. Following the 1-on-1 training, they reccomnded the beginners bootcamp, which I am currently attending. The attention to detail, form, non-judgemental, positive "kick your butt" attitude of firebellz is amazing. I have a long way to go and am battling old ankle injuries, and they are there everystep of the way! I will remain with firebellz for a long time to come. Its no longer a matter of if I will reach my goals, but when! B.M. - Albuquerque, NM

Top Notch Instructor

Rated 10 out of 10

I have known Zar throughout his time with AFD and have seen his ongoing commitment to health and fitness, not only in the fire department, but also with others in the community who seek strength and fitness. The kettlebell workout has taken his ability to a whole new level and his enthusiasm for the training has inspired others in very positive ways. I have been training using kettlebells for over two years and began training with Zar even before he had an "official location" in which to train clients. This means we improvised and trained in some interesting places - experiencing the four New Mexico season in parks that ranged from snowy to intense sunny weather and everything in between. The results I experienced made the effort worthwhile and I have been hooked ever since the first workout, despite the sore muscles in the first few weeks! The strength and flexibility I have developed using this training method helped me rehabilitate a shoulder injury from which surgeons thought I might not recover full strength. I exceeded expectations of the surgeon and the physical therapists who worked with me on the injury and recovery. I have also increased core body strength to prevent future injuries and experienced positive changes in my overall health. I've not looked back and have been pleased with the creative training sessions. Rarely are they exactly the same and that variety allows attention on different muscle groups for a overall great workout. Zar continues to attend sessions and certifications so that he stays at the forefront of knowledge and skill level. He addresses his client's needs and helps them achieve new levels of endurance and strength while keeping their safety, skill level and desired outcome in mind. He is extremely knowledgeable and intuitive about the needs of his clients and is focused on results always keeping safety in mind. He emphasizes proper form and builds from the basics to increase a person's training level and does so in a positive, encouraging manner. He addresses specific issues and limitations individually, at the appropriate time, allowing each person to keep their dignity as they learn new, challenging moves! He enables clients to continually improve. Zar has worked with me, and others in my family, to rehabilitate injuries, improve overall health and to participate in an activity that all of us can excel, even being a different levels. He the perfect choice for everyone who wants real results - from the novice to the accomplished athlete. I recommend him with confidence to colleagues, friends and family. Proven effectiveness! Lora Lee Ortiz - Alb., NM

Hooked on Bells	Rated 10 out of 10
Spent three weeks in NM and was told to check out Zar's gym. Had awesome workouts, burning close to a 1,000 calories in one hour. Did about 8 classes and had awesome workouts. If you are living in the area your wrong if your not checking out his gym. You will not be disappointed. Awesome!!!! Will Irwin - TN

Eye Opener	Rated 10 out of 10
Zar and his staff at Fire-bellz were awsome. This was a total eye opener for me and i would like to thank Zar for the oppertunity to train with him. He made the class fun and enjoyable (even though i am sore as hell) jason m - grants nm

Fantastic Teacher and Team Leader

Rated 10 out of 10

I am a newly minted HKC living in a market that does not have a local RKC to train under. I was looking to develop a beginning skills class at my local YMCA but was unsure how to really approach it. My HKC manual says how to teach the moves, but not how to really impart the info in a timely manner without killing prospective clients with a 3+ hour bootcamp. It has been nearly 4 years since I have my own level 1 class and I can't really remember what I did in those early days of kettlebelling. So I contacted Zar and asked him if I could sit in on his basic class and he readily agreed, no questions asked and at no charge. I found his class to be highly innovative in terms of teaching the swing. I'm sure all new instructors struggle with teaching folks the mechanics of this seemingly 'easy' move. I know I have with the few friends/victims that I have been working with. After a little verbal cueing, he had them transitioning from the deadlift to the swing in less than a minute! I found his style to be very efficient and am grateful for the opportunity to see it in action. It will absolutely become part of my program. During the brief periods of rest that the students were given, Zar and his staff would come over to me and the other HKC sitting in on the class to talk with us and answer our questions. Very professional! I even mentioned to him that as a new instructor I felt it was my job to hound people till they got the move right, but after watching him and his RKC's teach, I realized that you need to let them feel the basics of a move (even if it's not perfect) before you start tweaking their form. From what I saw, this made the class very enjoyable for the students; It made them feel competent even though they were not quite there yet. In short, Zar and his fellow RKC's at Fire-Bellz.com embody what I think an RKC and an Team Leader should be. They are there to help promote the sport, foster a kind learning environment for both students and teachers and ultimately make this fun! Sean Leffler - Los Alamos, NM

He's a FREAK!

Rated 10 out of 10

I've had the privilege of working with Zar for about 7 years and the more time I get to spend with him the more time I get to hurt. I love it, what takes others days to teach Zar can do in a few minutes. When you hit up one of Zar's workouts you better be ready to step it up. The way he understands people is amazing with a class full of people from completely different walks he puts together a challenging routine for all. Thanks you freak! Cullen McDonald - Abq, NM

Humility and a passion for learning and teaching!

Rated 10 out of 10

I am an RKC and like Zar Horton, a brother Firefighter. Last weekend I attended the first ever Brett Jones Indian Club workshop, assisted with an HKC Certification and attended Brett Jones' "Kettlebells from the Center" workshop at Andrea Chang's Kettlebility Studio in Seattle, WA. Over these three days, I was reassured that my journey in learning about the body and training techniques is in its infancy stages. Newly minted as a Senior RKC, Zar took me under his wing during the HKC cert. In Zar's group, there was a member who was odd-man out during drills. I was helping Zar by serving as this candidate's partner. He was having a tough time mechanically doing what I needed him to do with his body. As Brett said, if you find yourself repeating instructions with the same result, time to try something different. I called on Zar. He was able to provide an advanced outside-the-box technique that has now become part of my toolbox. Everyone at the cert benefited from his insight and enthusiasm. Zar is truly a "student of the game" and his eagerness to soak up every moment of training is an example that I will try to emulate. Zar...if you are willing to share your notes, I'd love to copy them. Zar has the humility and drive needed to represent the highest levels of the RKC. If Zar Horton ever needs an eager-to-learn assistant RKC at one of his workshops, he can give me a call. Alan Heddings, RKC - Seatte, WA

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