Back to Upcoming Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop

April 2007 Russian Kettlebell Challenge Instructor Certification Workshop — Participant Praise

A. Sean Armstead, Personal Trainer, Gym Owner, Chicago, IL

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Captain USMA Infantry (Persian Gulf Vet) Degerberg Academy of Martial Arts: 1991-1993, awarded Student of the Year Most Fit Male, Warrior Spirit of the Year, Muai Thai Student of the Year, All state life Healthy American Leader Award 1991. NASM-CPT, NSCA CSCS, NSCA-CPT, CHEK NLCII

Effective simplicity driven by high level intelligence and humility coupled with enormous intention and organization. All of which delivered by world class staff with marvelous attitudes.

I feel empowered to teach and develop strength concepts with kettlebells and general strength and conditioning.

Due to their depth of knowledge, passion for excellence in a “no none sense” fashion, the integrity and commitment, Pavel and his team rank 2nd to none in my book for excellence in a training system.

None of the other clinics I have experienced had the leader (Pavel) and team and assistants be such “walk it and talk it types” They truly LEAD BY Example, like no other group and I have been around.

I am going to sign up for RKC Level 2. I had no intention a day so. I am not making the decision out of emotion either. I know quality when I see it. I love how I feel and I want to help others feel similar.

Warrick Hanby, Human Resource Manager, Melbourne, Australia

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Ex-Policeman, Victoria Police (8 years), Defensive Tactics instructor course 1993. Background of various martial arts, BJJ, etc.

Was this course worth flying 18 hours/half way around the world for? — Absolutely!

Anthony D'Agostino, Fitness Studios Owner/Trainer, Ventnor City, NJ

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified by National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), Corrective exercise specialist, 2 yrs kettlebell experience, Mixed martial arts

RKC is the best fitness training available on the planet. All other systems seem obsolete now. To see the changes in myself and the others in only 3 days, was amazing!

So simple, so intelligent, well organized, no BS. Real, usable, highly effective, information. Great bang for the buck.

Christopher Wells, Trainer; US Navy-retired, Decatur, AL

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

BS Workforce Education and Development, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, On-going training in the Gayle Hatch Weightlifting System
- Personal Trainer Cert from Scirion Institute of Exercise Physiology
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider
- US Navy Master Training Specialist, Former US Navy Fitness Leader
- Over 20 years experience with weight training and high intensity calisthenics, Study in Yoga, Jeet Kune Do Concepts, Kali, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

The greatest “technical improvement density” I’ve ever experienced.

Outstanding! In particular I would like to acknowledge Geoff Neupert, Tracy Reifkind and Mark Toomey, who all put-in a great deal of time and effort for my benefit.

Teresa Hoffmann, Trainer, Port Townsend, WA.

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

ACE Certified Personal Trainer.

I would say it was one of the most educational and physically demanding seminars I have ever attended. The RKC is the most professional and well organized operation I have personally experienced. I would recommend to any serous trainer with high personal standards attend.

The quality and high standards of the instructors was extremely helpful, my head is swimming with new ideas and tools to apply to my practice. I am impressed by the level of integrity of the people attracted to this sport. I think that of course starts with Pavel and his amazing ability to teach, explain, trouble shoot, etc. Pavel has reinvented the standard and raised the bar so high. I am also thankful for his down to earth practical approach, with no BS, and willingness to spend time and answer questions when approached. He has a wonderful ability to first give you pain and then make you laugh!

No contest. I have never in 15 years, attend a more well organized, thorough, demanding and satisfying workshop/training/certification etc.

Daniel Merrick Kane, MD, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Devon, PA

Amazed at the amount of intuitive knowledge about whole body movement and making me aware (feeling) some of it. Overall, rate course as an A.

Theresa Nesbitt, Physician, St. Charles, IL

A very balanced approach that combines screening for adequate ability in the trouble shooting basics and teaching how to teach. This is accomplished by the very low teacher student ratio with EXCELLENT instructors

I can’t tell you how fantastic each and every instructor was — they have incredible motivation and information. As a scientist I have to admit I LOVED the STATS from Kenneth Jay.

Honestly this was simply the highest caliber instruction I have ever been exposed to. I went to one of the top medical schools in the country and maybe 2 of my professors were even in the same league. As a surgeon I was taught how to so something (operate) so it isn’t all books. These people are phenomenal and really an inspiration — especially PAVEL because his skill and continuing desire to improve himself and us. Just keep bringing in more great people.

Ben Schneider, Framing Carpenter, Traverse City, MI

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Traverse City Trojan Baseball, Varsity letterman — 1999-2000
2nd Team All Conference — 2000, Workhorse award — 1999-2000
Muskegon Community College Baseball, Charlie Hustle award — 2001-2002

I was humbled by their expertise. I was impressed by how well they not only know their stuff but can convey the information to anyone. It improved my form and my understanding 10 fold.

Catie Mooney, Personal Trainer, Calabasas, CA

One of the most amazing experiences in my life. I have learned so much about myself as a trainer and KB practitioner than I could have predicted. The people (participants and teachers) were some of the most opened minded and welcoming individuals.

I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by so many amazing KB professionals. The constant participation (both individual and in a large setting) by Pavel has completely exceeded my expectation. My Team Leader, Will Williams, and the assistants Aaron and Michelle have been tremendously helpful in their own way. They have each made me feel 100% more confident in myself as a trainer and in my strength as a KB participant. Team Williams Rules!

Beau Bentley, Student, Bixby, OK

This is the greatest experience I have ever had. It’s amazing to find people this strong and smart and humble that really want you to succeed.

Robert Blaschke, Teacher, Santa Cruz, CA

This has been the most physical, humbling and exhilarating weekend of exercise I have ever had. Pavel offered and encouraged criticism, pointers and punishment with equal enthusiasm. Team Leaders were excellent! Sound teaching methodology easy to understand instruction.

The RKC course is far superior in every aspect to any course I have taken.

Matt Johnson, Personal Training, Shoreview, MN

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Small college (div III) football, United States Coast Guard, Enlisted
NSCA, CSCS

It was a great experience. It was a very difficult and rewarding experience and I am taking a great deal away from it.

TOP NOTCH. I have always been a good athlete and could hold my own in the weight room. But this RKC experience has taught me how improperly I have been using my glutes and hams to generate power. I learned things this weekend that I never learned in over 25 years of athletic and weight training experience. Thank you to Pavel, Geoff, Mark and the rest of the instructors and organization.

The best I have ever experienced, hands down.

Kevin Burns, Professional MMA Fighter, Ankeny, IA

The instruction for refining my technique and learning to trouble shoot other’s technique was worth the physical challenges presented. I was very impressed with the wealth of knowledge received throughout the weekend.

Chris David, Jiu-Jitsu Instructor, Des Moines, IA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

7.5 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The techniques gained during this weekend will help me to be stronger and less prone to injury.

Kori Bliffert, Fitness Coach, Respiratory Therapist, Waukesha, WI

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

NASM -CPT

The best weekend of my life! I learned more in 1 weekend than I thought possible. The RKC is far and above the best. I truly enjoyed this weekend. Kenneth, Mark and Jeff were outstanding and taught me a lot about my weaknesses and technique.

Kenyon W. Sprankle Jr., D.O., Emergency Medicine Physician/Director, Marlton, NJ

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Aikido Black Belt, Certified Mistral Windsurfing Instructor

It was a tremendous opportunity for me to meet the experts in RKC and have them help me. Also, it allowed me to see how I could push my own conditioning as well as challenge any clients no matter what level of athlete they are.

The quality was tremendous and the instruction superlative

Tim Ruffner, Personal Trainer, Hamilton, NJ

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

I am a former US Amy airborne qualified 11B (infantry). I have some experience with Krav Maga and am working on my Personal Training cert.
The training is tough, if not brutal at times. However, it is also very educational and ultimately fun, in a twisted kind of way.

Excellent, Excellent, Excellent. Pavel lived up to his reputation. The team leaders were simply superb. The instructors are in a class by themselves in terms of quality and approachability.

The quality, scope and practical use of this course is far superior to anything I have ever done. It reminds me of the military in its precision and attention to detail.

Justin Garfield, General Manager, CA Label Products, Van Nuys, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Hapkido green belt, Brazilian jiu-jitsu blue belt, Certified Crossfit instructor, Background in Security and Close protection, Former U.S.M.C. Infantry 1998-2002, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary 2003-present

The training is by far the most intensive I have ever experienced. This was a real gut-check for me. I am reborn hard style. The quality and knowledge presented this weekend was outstanding. Every one of the instructors possess a wealth of skill and knowledge to draw from.

Lucas Wagner, Software Engineer, Cedar Rapids, IA

Brutally effective, brutally taxing. Only for those who really want it.

Pavel is a wealth of knowledge. I felt I could ask him anything and get a good answer. Kenneth Jay is a cyborg (not really, but he his very inspiring). Mark Reifkind was a fabulous leader who seemed very focused on safety and proper, flawless techniques.

Jesse Smallwood, Truck Driver, Woodstock, IL

It was fun, brutal and rewarding. I’d love to do it every 6 months or so, income permitting.

John Slattery IV, Firefighter, Atlantic City NJ

Hardest thing I’ve ever done, the rewards are immeasurable, you’ll leave a different person.

Second to none — these instructors are all over you correcting your every fault. They are easy to talk to and they know what they are talking about.

Carolyn Hakes, Personal Trainer, Naperville, IL

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Personal Trainer (ACE NESTA)

Very thorough. I appreciated the fine tuning and breakdown of each exercise. Lots of hard work! I thought it was excellent. The quality of information was excellent. Teachers were knowledgeable.

Brian Thompson, State Trooper, Des Moines IA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Served as a Law Enforcement officer for 23 years. ÊDefensive Tactics Instructor, Expandable Baton Instructor, Firearms Instructor.

One of the most difficult things I have done but more rewarding than I could ever have imagined. Truly a life rewarding experience.

All of the instructors were highly qualified and brought the level of professionalism to a very high standard. Hands down the best training class I have attended in years. Very tough but well worth the adventure.

Rick Carranza, Personal Trainer, Queens, NY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

NSCA Certified Personal Trainer, MMA Training, Muay Thai Kettlebell training Wrestling H.S. County Place Winner, Equinox Tier 3 Personal Trainer

RKC training has expanded my awareness of myself, myself business, and how I can go out and impact others with this training system.

I feel the level of knowledge is at the highest level anywhere in the field right now. Seeing Pavel and the SR Instructors around with their level of confidence and competence is reassuring and gives something to aspire to.

The quality of equipment, attention to details, (ie sunscreen, water, chalk.) was exceptional. The course is well organized and I felt I have received VALUE.

Martin Loo, Police Officer, Concord, CA

Extremely valuable getting info from the elite trainers in their field.

Leonard Wu, English Subtitle Editor, Los Angeles, CA

Pavel was out standing, his knowledge of not just KBs, but kinesthetics and physiology is awe inspiring. SR Instructors were great.

Chris Powers, Personal Trainer, St Paul, MN

An extremely thorough, hands on workshop. All the fine points of each movement are covered and experienced 1st hand.

I thought Pavel was excellent. All the SR Instructors and Team Leaders were great too!

The RKC is hands down the most extensive training I have ever received.

Tom Healy, Retailer, Houston, TX

I learned and incorporated more about kettlebells in 3 days, than I had in 2 years.

I thought the level of expertise was excellent. They had knowledge, experience and could walk the walk and more importantly for me talk the talk.

Justin Heer, Construction, Sedona, AZ

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Martial arts enthusiast, standard barbell and dumb bell prior to kettlebell training, kettlebell training for the past 2-3 years.

A definite experience that I would recommend anyone at any level of fitness to do. It is a challenge that promised to leave you a better man or lady. I’ll walk away proud to have worked along side a wonderful group!

Stewart Carroll, Personal Trainer / Acupuncturist, Brooklyn, NY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

NCAA College Basketball Player, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Incomparable. Unlike anything else I have done. A strength school that provides an education for Iife and the practical use of a vocational school.

Karen Denning, Director of Corporate Communications, Aurora, IL

I come from the corporate world and have attended many seminars and workshops throughout my career. The passion, dedication and commitment that Pavel and the Srs and Team Leaders demonstrated here was beyond impressive. I cannot imagine anyone not leaving here inspired to spread the word about kettlebells and the RKC way.

Joe Williams, Casino Dealer, Somers Point, NJ

Great course. Definitely learned more than I thought I would learn.

Ross Allen, Real Estate Developer, Healdsburg, CA

Most difficult sustained physical effort since high school. Yet still well paced and thoroughly instructive.

Good to great communication and teaching skills. All seem to exemplify the system and movements they are teaching.

William Lusk, Sr. Systems Engineer, Snohomish, WA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

I'm into Kettlebells, Crossfit, and O-Lifting. In 2005 I competed in two O-Lifting competitions.

A challenging and rewarding, physically demanding, educational experience.

David Werschay, Custom Home Builder, St. Cloud, MN

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Hockey for 9 years, Racquetball-Olympic training camps, Collegiate scholarship, Nationally ranked in the early 90's, Body for life 2 times,
Discovered Kettlebells 2006....END OF STORY!

This experience gave me a better understanding of how powerful and versatile KB can be and how they can be applied to all people! Quality was great. The trainers are very friendly and respect all students.

Tom Stafford, Business owner/Personal Trainer, Durham, NC

For the main population I work with the combo of Z-health and RKC covers all my bases as far as movement combined with strength. Because one of much more less effective without the other.

Gayle Hunter, Training to Teach Kettlebells, Healdsburg, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

None since High school! Set the school high jump record (girls) and athlete of the year award. Have ACE Personal trainer course — studied it, but not tested. Planning to specialize in KB’s and teach

It’s a lifelong dream (that could be explained in a lot more detail). A culmination of the past year since I found KBs, which has been the happiest year of my life! (not counting my kids and mate)

Pavel’s always so right-on, sensible, no nonsense. And others were incredibly good considering its only been a few years for them. Extremely high quality.

Only studied ACE manual and materials and been to several high quality personal trainers, and this is the ultimate. Nothing can top it that I can imagine.

Kettlebells are just the most perfect thing that I can’t believe they exist any I’m excited to be able to help all my friends as they go into their 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Naina Bhasin, Research Scientist, Iowa City, IA

My experience has been tremendous. This is truly an instructor’s course. Each exercise was broken down into segments that made sense and then further dissected to reveal fine nuances to improve technique and safety. The RKC exemplifies the foundation of strong teaching methods: “I’ll show you, you practice and to prove your mastery, you teach another.”

It has been fantastic. Pavel is clear and straight to the point. Will Williams was an exceptional team leader and someone whom I would love to work with again in the future. Assistants Michelle and Aaron were also incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the process. Other instructors with whom I did not personally train with but learned a great deal from via conservations or lecture were the Reifkinds, Doug Nepodal, Kenneth- outstanding presentation, John Du Cane, David Whitley, Jeff from OK., and Goeff Neupert.

This has been my first experience with a fitness certification of any kind. All accounts shared with me by fellow participants and instructors who rely on coaching and training as their livelihood indicated that nothing else compares.

Jim Ryan, DC, Chiropractor & Health Coach, St. Paul, MN

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Aikido First Kyu and assistant instructor, Aikido Yoshokai, John Du Cane's Qigong student - many classes, Many holistic health/ energy medicine technique trainings

Highest quality instruction, instructors and participants.
Good people, good energy, and grueling work made for an unforgettable experience.
Very tough but fair expectations! You better be “in shape” when you get here or else.

All instructors are class people and uphold the high standards of the RKC system. Pavel always follows the rules too so there is no “do as I say, not as I do”. I was lucky enough to have excellent martial arts instruction (Takashi Kashida Sthdan-Tokyo-Aikido Yoshinkai- a’la Gozo Shioda) and there is a similar spirit here. Strong, tough but fair. Everyone very helpful, thoughtful, and realistic.

All instructors — esp. my team. I could feel it in my team, cared about us doing well, passing and having a good although brutal experience. No big egos and tough guy attitudes despite the fact that there are a lot of tough hombres and hombrettes here!

Michele Kelly, Interior Design, Olympia, WA

I changed. I passed a threshold of physical fitness that I have never passed before. I’m not going back!

At all times during the instruction at RKC I felt that I was in very capable, competent hands. I respect the instructors for their knowledge and experience. I believed that they were here to help me and also push me.

Russell Jodrey, Strength Coach, Miranda, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Martial Arts, Arm wrestler, fitness trainer.

Top of the food chain here! It can’t get any more quality than this! I really liked Kenneth Jay, Dave Whitley and John Du Cane’s presentation! More than helpful! Words to abide by!

This weekend put anything else I’ve ever done in the river dead.

Courtney Mizuhara-Cheng, Osteopathic Medical Doctor, Los Angeles

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Runner (marathon, 10K, etc.), former basketball player and coach, tai chi

The RKC training was a life-changing experience that recharged me to think ahead at my future goals while enhancing my present strength mentally and physically.

RKC certification training provided high quality information that was practical to use regardless of your physical level expectations (ie desire to instruct vs. not instruct)

Fawn Friday, Personal Trainer, Saint Paul, MN

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

NSCA Certified Personal Trainer

Grueling — extremely educational — a month’s worth of teaching packed into three days.

Garrett Higgins, Full Time Student, Arlington, VA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Completed Marine Corps boot camp and combat training -Certified by the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI)

The RKC seminar was an intense and well-rounded educational and physically challenging experience. I also felt it was conducted in a very thoughtful and professional manner, creating cohesion throughout for everyone, instructors and students both.