Reviews

mark makes things fun but he also we work hard. he is willing to work with anyone and help them get the proper technique down. all in all i feel that mark is a great instructor.

Mark is my uncle but he doesn't treat me differently than other people. I love working out with him because I feel like I have accoplished something when i'm done. I also like it because he is always looking out for our saftey.

Great workout!

I have been enjoying my Kettlebell experience with Mark. Mark is a good instructor. He is motivating, pushes you, but is very kind. I look foward to continuing on this journey to become more physically fit with Mark's help. I like doing these workouts so much I am going to get up at 5:00 A.M. to do it. Mark is very accomodating and wants to help us all achieve.

After a year plus of hearing from several friends about how great the KB workouts were, I finally took the intro course with Mark on July 4th this year (he didn't even charge holiday pay). What a difference it's made for me!

I've always lacked motivation, interest and commitment for "conventional" cardio & weight training - that has taken a complete 360 since starting KB workouts with Mark. His dedication to driving each client to reach their full potential is apparent at every workout. I've benefited first hand from Mark's attention to detail and proper technique, which he's always demonstrating and reminding us about. You will not get "bored" with these workouts - I've attended 4-5 workouts weekly since starting 3+ months ago, and have never had the same workout twice. The results have been awesome, I'm in the best shape I've been in 15 years..

Thanks Mark for your loyalty in helping me, and all your clients, work toward our fitness goals.

Mark is a great instructor! He has a geniune desire to create the best kettlebell workouts for each and every member in the classes. Mark keeps the workouts different and challenging each time. He is encouraging and works to ensure that all participants are doing each move correctly to gain the maximum benefits of a Kettlebell workout. Kettlebells was the push I needed to focus on strenght training and a well rounded fitness program.

I was feeling lost after my personal trainer of several years left for greener pastures. I needed a change but wasn't ready to resign myself to yoga or aerobics classes.

Online research led me to contact Kettlebell Advantage. Right from the start, Mark was encouraging and enthusiastic. After taking the required introductory class I was hooked and signed up for a few one-on-one training sessions with Mark. He is incredibly patient, has the ability to explain and break down moves and always emphasizes technique and good form. Also, I really can't say enough about how nice and accepting Mark is. At 56 I may be Mark's most senior female trainee to date, but I never felt that he "went easy" on me because of my age.

I'm practicing kettlebells on my own now and plan to take periodic refresher sessions with Mark to make sure I don't develop any bad KB habits. I can unreservedly recommend that if you want to learn kettlebells right, go see Mark at Kettlebell Advantage!

This is exactly what I've looking for! I just started taking the KB class about 2 weeks ago and have already started to see results in my energy level and confidence level! Like so many others I've tried other exercise routines and found myself bored, frustrated, and with little to show for it. With having Mark as an instructor he always keeps the days regime interesting, fun, and fast paced. Time flys during class. Being a mom of 4 kids and 1 with special needs, my energy and alertness needs to be at it's peak, and KB's have given me what I've been searching for.

MARK IS JUST WHAT I NEEDED TO HELP IN MY JOURNEY IN MY WEIGHT LOSS...I LOVE HIS DRIVE..HIS PASSION FOR WHAT HE DOES..IT SHOWS AND MAKES ME WANT IT...

As a former college athlete that had been away from a regimented strength and conditioning program for ten years - it was time to find what worked for me in taking care of my physical being. I had tried it all in working to find a workout plan that met my needs. Upon moving to Vinton in 2008, I learned of Mark and Kettlebell training. For about a year I listened to people talk about Mark and the opportunities he was affording people in the Vinton area. In speaking with Mark about the Kettlebell Advantage, I quickly felt like I might have found the right workout plan for me. I took the Introduction Class and have been a regular attendee since the beginning of August 2009.

Mark has made a difference in my life and in the lives of so many others. His positive demeanor and consistent approach works for me. His encouragement only makes me want to work harder and do more in the "gym". Mark is a positive role model for the community of Vinton and is an excellent motivator of people. I feel more accountable to myself and others because of Mark and the Kettlebell Advantage.

He made the difference for me.

I met Mark about around April at a kettlebell workshop, which was a humbling experience for me being a personal trainer out of cedar rapids. This 90 min workshop/butt kicking opened my eyes to new opportunities for my clients and myself as a person/trainer. After much thought and advice from mark i decided to go for my kettlebell certification in september of this year. Mark and his tips/advice along with the VO2 max workout 1 to 2 a week i have reached new levels of strength endurance. I have nothing but respect for mark and his lifestyle of changing peoples lives as soon as they walk into his gym. The workouts alone are amazing and the comrodery is amazing as well. if you havent taken a class you are missing out on the one thing that could be missing in your workouts. As mark would always say "Lead One"

At 60, I am one of the older people in Mark's class and I am impressed with how supportive and concerned he is with all the students, regardless of age, gender or ability. This class is not just for jocks. It is for everyone and he encourages each of us in a positive and helpful manner. Everyone gets personal attention, no matter how many are in class that day.

Mark is committed to teaching anyone who comes through the door how far they can take their bodies. He does this with a great balance of intensity and rest. He addresses proper technique and insures everyone is having fun. I am impressed with Mark's ability to work with all age levels from youth to retirees. This is a testimony to the respect people in our community have for Mark. My career has taken me to many gyms throughout the Midwest where I have experienced personal trainers working with individuals. It cannot be emphasized enough what Mark is providing in knowledge, expertise and professionalism in a fitness environment to our community. We are blessed to have a guy of Mark's talent willing to start classes at 5:00AM to accommodate all schedules. I have been and avid runner and lifter for years. Nothing compares to the Kettlebell workout. I seem to feel an immediate response to the workout which is unlike anything I have experienced. I attribute this to the workouts designed by Mark. I enjoy every minute of it. Keep up the great work.

Mark is a highly dedicated instructor with a passion for fitness and improving the overall well being of members in our community. His enthusiasm for Kettlebells and his encouragement to push ourselves during class keeps us motivated. Mark recognizes that a strong foundation can be built within our youth. He has been instrumental in developing a variety of Kettlebell classes for for all ages to participate. He has definitely been a positive influence and role model making a difference in the lives of others around him.

Mark's workouts are great. Everyday is different and challenging. It is obvious that he understands the variety of exercises that RKC offers and he balances it with body weight trainings. He does a great job describing technique and observing members during the workouts. I've been training for 3 months now and have become drastically stronger and have a greater endurance compared to when I trained on my own.

Kettlebell Advantage is an environment that is welcoming and comfortable, which are two elements that are very important when trying something new and/or trying to push past current comfort zones, both physically or mentally.

I was never a fan of exercise classes or getting up early, but I now got to class every morning at either 5:45 am or 6:00 a.m.... its that much fun and that great of a work out.

I am 49 years old. Prior to joining Mark's KB classes on Jan 1st 2008, (that's right New Year's Day), I had run two half marathons and several other lesser runs, but never saw the results. Mark had me breathless, heart pumping, and sore like I have never been before. I worked up to going 4 - 5 days per week and within 120 days saw results which amazed me and my family. Focused, disciplined, and motivatinig are only three of Mark's qualities that make him such a great RKC instructor. I regularly receive text messages from him telling me what a great effort was put out that day. He makes me want to come back for more. Recently started the Viking Warrior workout in the evenings as well. The changes are coming even faster. Nothing else has kept me this motivated for this long and I see no end in sight. I can't believe this kind of physical conditioning coaching is available in our small town! Thanks Mark, I'm convinced of the many benefits to be gained by KB's. If it is to be, it's up to me!

I am 35 year old male, always felt that I was in pretty good condition. I had othroscopic knee surgery in late Decemeber, started Kettlebells on February 1. I imediately started to see the results, Mark took the time to explain everything in such great detail and how it helped certain muscles to reduce injury. 3 months later, 25 lbs and 3 inches off my waist I continue to grow more confident. Mark, not only is a great motivator, but has the genuine interest of his clients in mind.

I have done the usual weight-lifting routine for years now. When I saw that there was a place to participate in a kettlebell class here in Iowa I jumped at the chance. It is well worth the hour drive each way to participate in Mark's class. He is personable and encouraging not to mention an excellent instructor. For anyone who feels like they have "hit the wall" with traditional training call Mark and do this. It is worth any commute. You will not be disappointed.

I played sports in high school and college and never quite found my niche after school. I tried exercise classes, but was either bored or didn't see results. I thought running and lifting were my only options to staying fit. A friend told me about Mark's classes so I thought I would give it a try. It seemed more "guy-friendly" as well, so my husband even signed up. It is now a common interest we share and are both amazed at the results. Mark is an outstanding instructor and such a gem to have in our community. He is top notch. The workouts are always varied, never boring and most of all...fun! He creates a great environment for people of all abilities and ages. He is a fabulous motivator. Sometimes sleeping in sounds really nice when my baby keeps me up in the middle of the night! However, Mark reminds us that our body doesn't care what our excuse is. It was hard in the beginning to wake up so early but Mark pushed me and even offered a wake up call! My work outs are now routine and I feel so much better. Mark also offers tips to ensure I'm doing the exercises correctly.

I bought and read/viewed the "Enter the KEttlebell" book and DVD a few months prior to contacting Mr. Erickson. While I felt I had a grasp of the very basics of the techniques, I still had some lower back pain after trying the "RKC Program Minimum" from the Enter the Kettlebell book. During the class, Mr. Erickson mentioned that one should always clench the glutes when performing the pump stretch. As soon as I did this, my back pain went away. The personal instruction on the rest of the exercises was worth twice what I paid for the course. I highly recommend this instructor.

I have tried many different types of instucted classes, Tae Kwon Do, step aerobics, and weight lifting. None of them compare to Kettlebell. Mark is more concerned about you having the proper form and technique than he is about just getting through the class. Mark is a great motivator and somehow knows just when to say "Great Job" or "5 seconds" I would recommend his class to anyone no mater what their fitness level is. He is very motivated and truly leads by example. I look forward to every class.
Thanks Mark!!

I met Mark when my son started Kettle Bell Advantage. Immediately I found that I liked Mark's outlook on fitness. My wife and I decided to give Kettlebells a try. The classes are intense but the way Mark leads the class makes it fun and you don't realize how hard you have worked. I look forward to every class.

This has been a great re-introduction back to staying fit and working out for me. The workouts are constantly changing and keeping everyone interested. Mark is always very encouraging and yet exercising safely. I love the workouts!

Mark is very knowledgeable and has a fun personality. Two key ingredients in being a great instructor. . . and leading great workouts. The variety of exercises that he builds into each class keeps the workouts fresh. I never thought that I would be willing to pay someone to help me workout, but Mark has turned out to be a very good investment.

I believe these are great workouts that deal with high intensity training. they also help athletes focus on training thier core, hips, and mid section, which are very important for athletes and their fitness goals.

Mark came to campus to give instruction on proper use of kettlebells. Now our college baseball team incorporates Mark's workouts into our everyday strenght and conditioning schedule. After only a few weeks of his workout I can feel the difference in my core. I feel more powerful and more explosive, I would recommend Mark to anyone looking for good instruction and maximum results.

Provides real examples on how kettle bells will help you exceed in your sport

Mark demonstrates how to do each exercise very well and also provides a very intense workout that will make you feel good about yourself.

very good instructor cut no corners in teaching tecniques

Mark Helped out a lot on my technique making it able to immediatly lift heavier weight. With just the few days working with him, you can tell how much he knows about the kettlebell.

Great workout, he helped out with our form on all kettlebell lifts, and he was very motivated in his work.

I have only been doing the Kettlebell workout for a few weeks now and I can already see results. He is willing to work with each individual to perfect the Kettlebells. He has been alot of help for me and my baseball team and I look forward to keep working out with kettlebells in the future!

I have tried several different workout plans over the years, but nothing has given me the results I've seen over the last few months. The kettlebell workouts with Mark have exceeded my expectations in the way they have made me look and feel about myself. Mark is an excellent instructor and motivator and his varity of workouts helps bring you back. He keeps raising the bar to help you acheive levels you didn't think you could reach.

I drove 2 hours to work with Mark and it was very worth it. Mentally I prepared by going over the Enter The Kettlebell material, but Mark really helped me iron some important things out. When the time comes I will set up another meeting. Train with Mark!

Very knowledgable,with a great personality. He will make you work hard,but will keep your form correct. He set up a program to my personal needs. I will work with him every chance i get.

I started working out with Kettlebells six weeks after having my fifth baby. Knowing that Mark is very committed to making sure everyone gets a great workout, know matter what their fitness level is, I look forward to every session as I continue on my fitness journey.

Kettlebells has become a family experience for us. Mark is a personable, positive, ultra-fit yet humble instructor and creates an environment that is perfect for middle-aged beginners (me) and focused athletes (my son) alike. Mark takes the time to encourage each person with personal training even with a full room. At the moment one begins to question finishing a particular exercise, Mark senses it and yells out, "Good job, almost there!" I highly recommend Mark as an excellent role model for fitness for the whole family!

I have never been one to do any type of exercise class, as I work out on my own--running, lifting weights. I decided to try Kettlebell for something new and different. Mark takes the time to instruct us on proper techniques and he monitors us to make sure we are doing them correctly. He also mixes up the workouts so we are able to work different muscle groups and don't get bored. I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in Kettlebell classes! Even though I have only been at it for a month, I can see some difference in my muscle definition.

Mark is an outstanding instructor who really cares about us as individuals. I had let my workout routine slide to a hault and had lost motivation. A friend got me to walk through the KB door and Mark has been helping me ever since. Mark knows that I struggle and he encourages me during class as well as through emails. His workouts are challenging yet fun and he continues to help me work on my technique. Not only do I get a great workout, I am motivated by his passion for fitness. He really does lead by example. Thanks Mark!

I had heard lots of people talking about Kettlebells and I just wasn't interested because I do not like to lift weights. This summer I was looking for something extra to tone up and Mark kept saying it isn't like lifting weights so I finally gave it a try. I absolutely love it! I love that I can go 3 times a week and still get my runs in. I have had chronic back problems and my back is great. Both of my kids(12 and 15) are doing different classes with Mark and both are loving it. Mark is a great motivational instructor. He cares about all of us getting a good workout.Thanks, Mark!

I took my personal training staff from The University of Iowa to Vinton, Iowa in order to get a few basics of KB training and learn KB technique from Mark. Not only does his passion for fitness and KB training shine, he was an excellent instructor, knowledgeable trainer, caring professional, and overall, a smart, dedicated, real individual. I would, without a doubt, visit his facility again and ask Mark to help educate future professionals in an instant. He is a very personable and educated KB leader. Just visiting his facility and being around his spirit of KB training makes one want to adopt a healthier lifestyle and explore the greatness he shares of KB training. Mark's leadership makes me wish I lived closer to Vinton, Iowa so that I could train with him on a weekly basis.

At the most recent RKC weekend in St.Paul April 2008, I had the good fortune to meet Mark and was even more fortunate to have him assigned to my team as one of my Assistant Instructors. Our task that weekend was to teach,perfect, and evaluate a group of students who were attending the course to certify as RKB instructors. The first thing I noticed about Mark was his precision when he was demonstrating kettlebell techniques. He has excellent form. He has the ability to transfer his knowledge (as I watched him confer with the students). He offered good insight, a thorough knowledge of the RKC system, and confidence in his teaching. He is extremely personable and friendly. What I saw and experienced of Mark, through discussion, observing his demonstrations, his evaluations of our students, and his ability to teach left me fully confident to recommend Mark at the top of my list! I know I will see Mark again at future RKC events and look forward to friendship with this
quality individual. Thanks for your assistance, Mark. It was my pleasure!

I normally consider myself a pretty fit person, that is until I started the Kettlebell Advantage group. I now have muscles in my legs and butt that I never have seen before. I have done several other workout routines and nothing gave me the confidence and results that this does. Mark is a great instructor, he knows how to push you just to that breaking point and just a little further. Thanks Mark for some great workouts.

When I tell people about Kettlebells, most have never heard of them before. I simply explain to them, you need to try them because you are missing out. It is a whole new experience. Like all, I am busy with work, family and all the extra curricular activities that life brings. Finding time to work out is tough. I don't know of anywhere else you can get the benefits of a 45-minute workout than with Mark and Kettlebells. He will make time for you. He is knowledgeable, patient and teaches great technique so you get optimum benefit from a workout. I have increased energy, strength, tone and have lost weight. From what Mark has introduced to this community, all should be in envy of. He truly cares about all of his clients and will go the extra mile to help them succeed. If you are not allowing Mark to assist you with your workout, then you are simply missing out. Keep up the great work Mark and I invite you to experience the Kettlebell Advantage

Mark deserves recognition in his ability to motivate students irregardless of their ability. He continuously is pushing us to a higher level of performance. I never have felt like my workouts have hit a "plateau". There is always that something extra I feel the need to strive for. Considering I have been at this for 8 months I feel that is a tribute to his ability as an instructor. When people are having a "rough day" during workout time - Mark is always there to provide encouragement - not tear you down. These are the traits of a true champion in my opinion. This is also the first time since high school wrestling that my body has felt as "tight" as at present - turning 50 this year makes me feel good I can make this statement.

My workouts at the local gym were getting stale. I needed something to add some spark and wake up my muscles again. Found it! The Kettlebell workout is a fabulous combination of cardio and strength training. Mark is a great instructor in that he provides positive feedback to keep you going, he's also not afraid to give you a challenge and make it fun. I always leave with a smile even though I'm drenched in sweat. I've been attending for less than a month and I'm already noticing the difference. Thanks Mark!

I joined Mark's kettlebell class 6 1/2 months ago and have noticed a huge difference in how I look and feel. I am noticing that I have more energy, muscle definition and strength during my workouts. What I enjoy most about kettlebells is the combination of cardio and strength training. Mark is a wonderful coach and trainer. He is always encouraging and motivating me. Mark Erickson and kettlebells are all I need to help reach my goals and as a champion instructor he is determined to get me there!

I'm 20 years old and I've been a CNA (certified nurse assistant) for a couple of years now. I had already started to develop a tight and sore lower back from all the work and moving we do in a bent over position. After doing kettlebells for only a week I could really notice that my lower back wasn't near as sore. I love kettlebells, they are so much fun, and I plan on doing them for a long time to come.

Great balance of stretching, cardio, and strength training. I really enjoy participating in the classes because the support and encouragement available in this environment are real motivators.

Since starting Russian Kettlebell training with Mark Erickson at Kettlebell Advantage a couple of months ago, I feel stronger, healthier and have more energy. Mark is a superb instructor, a 10 out of 10. The workouts are at convenient, flexible times and Mark provides a wide variety of different routines which keeps the workouts varied and improve the entire body, not just the core. Thanks Mark!!!

Mark is a great instructor! He is very patient and encouraging and always has new workouts for us to do. Participating in the Kettlebells classes has been a great experience for me and I plan to continue to do so.

I have been an avid runner for many years. Realizing the benefits of strength training I have started numerous weight lifting programs. I was never successful due to lack of guidance and just plain boredom. I started Kettlebell training with Mark three months ago and I'm a believer! The strength and cardio workout I achieve from each session is awesome. Mark is a positive and motivational instructor. He does a great job of varying the exercises to make each workout different. I now look forward to strength training thanks to Mark!

Before having surgery almost 3 years ago, I was somewhat in shape. I worked out and could run almost 2 miles a day. After having to take off more than 8 weeks I found myself unable to get back into a routine and definitely unable to run 2 miles. As a result I gained more than 35lbs. My husband started Kettlebells before me and loved it. I saw how he was loosing inches and feeling better about himself. So, I started! Even though it was slow going, hard for me to get out of bed so early in the morning and only making it 2 days a week. I am happy to say that since August of 2007 I have lost 14lbs, 23inches; going now 3 days a week and I just ran my first mile in almost 3 years. The best feeling however, was watching a movie one night and noticing that I had muscle definition in my arms!

I'm telling you now, I have never had so much fun working out in my life. I saw Mark's sign for kettlebell class one night while I was weight training, read about it and signed up as soon as possible. Since I signed up, I have been going 6 days a week, bought my own set of kettlebells, and working on getting some money saved up so I, myself, can get certified. I have found myself making a complete lifestyle change due to kettlebells. Mark is a fantastic, motivational instructor that I find a privledge to be taught by.

Like the headline says you can't beat a kettlebell workout! With everyone's schedule these days a workout seems to be the first to be dropped. Well mine anyway. With KB's you can get a tail draggin', clothes drenched in sweat and a huge sense of accomplishment done in forty five minutes. Warm up and everything! (Fits in great before work.) Mark is awesome at keeping it interesting by not doing the same exercise day to day. With one rockin' studio. Kettlebell Advantage Rocks!

Great workout. Mark does a great job instructing on the kettlebell technique. The 45 minute workout will leave you soaked, sore and satisfied. Thanks Mark!

As a college wrestler, strength and conditioning is a major part of my training. Mark has shown me and continues to push me to get the most out of the kettlebell workouts. Since using the kettlebells, I have seen a huge improvement in my core and hip strength, along with full body conditioning. I would suggest Mark to any athlete as he knows how to push people to a high level getting the most out of them. Mark wants his clients to become CHAMPIONS and shatter their goals!

Mark is a great instructor, he makes every workout different, and motivates you to work harder. He always shows you what he wants you to do, and works out with his classes. Mark is a highly energetic person and his enthusiasm for kettlebells shows with every class. He goes out of his way to accommodate as many work schedules as he can so that everyone that wants to work out can find a class time that will work.
I honestly look forward to coming to class and always feel better afterwards. I would highly recommend anyone interested in starting an exercise program to come to a kettlebell class with Mark.

I have known Mark since 1999. He is a class person all the way. He is one of the best kept secrets in the kettlebell world and exemplifies quiet professionalism. I recommend Mark without hesitation. If you live in or around the state of Iowa, do yourself a favor and invest in some training sessions with Mark!

Mark's classes are unlike anything else I have ever gone to. I have worked out in many different ways at the gym and other classes. What I would normally do in the gym in 1 1/2 hours takes only 45 minutes with kettlebells. I feel I achieve more and sweat more during these workouts than I ever have before. Mark's knowledge about fitness and nutrition are second to none.

Thanks Mark for bringing introducing Andy and I to kettlebells.

Wendi Neal
Former Professional Softball Player
Durham Dragons

My wife and I have known Mark for several years, and were excited to give Kettlebells a try when we heard the Mark had become an instructor. We have been through 2 workouts now with Mark, and what great workouts they were! I am amazed at the quality of workout that can be achieved in just 30-45 minutes. Mark really takes the time to thoroughly explain all maneuvers, and is patient with us when our technique needs correction. Through his solid instruction, he has motivated me to continue kettlebell workouts on my own and I am excited about the results that I will achieve.

You heard it here - quickly grab a spot in one of Mark's kettlebell classes before they are gone!

Mark is very caring and excited to see a new person learn with kettlebells. He is very patient and takes the time to see you through the workout. It is challenging, but with his encouragement you can do it.

As a former world-ranked swimmer and Division I head swim coach I thought I had seen all the possible strength training possibilities out there. It seems crazy to me that I discovered Kettlebells at age 36, after having 3 children, living in small town Vinton, Iowa! At a time in my life when I really wanted to get in shape fast I couldn't be more pleased with the results of training with Kettlebells. I am now seeing muscle definition in places I haven't seen since my collegiate swimming days. In addition I have lived with chronic back pain due to a fairly severe curve in my spine (likely why I selected swimming as my sport). After routinely doing Kettlebell training for a month I have seen a HUGE improvement in this area. I believe it has helped balance out the muscles in my back and gotten them stronger and therefore relieving much back pain and discomfort.

Thanks Mark to introducing me to this type of training... I'm sold!

Garland O'Keeffe Wilson
former University of Iowa Head Women's Swim Coach
Indiana University collegiate swimmer / record holder

First of all I have to Congratulate Mark on passing the RKC Certification with flying colors. I had the privilege of instructing Mark at the June RKC in 2007 and I must say that among my entire group Mark stood out as one of the top overall students in terms of technique, ability to learn and take instruction as well as his ability to communicate his message to others. Mark is a genuine, honest and personable trainer that cares about people. Mark has my highest recommendation and anyone who works with him should count themselves extremely fortunate.