Back to Upcoming Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop

February 2008 Russian Kettlebell Challenge Instructor Certification Workshop — Participant Praise

Dan John, Instructor of Religion and Strength, Murray, UT

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Multiple State Champion in Utah and California. American Record Holder in the Weight Pentathlon, Masters Champion at Pleasanton Highland Games, National Champion in the discus, Wt. Pent, and Olympic Lifting. Multiple State Record Holder in Olympic lifting. Fulbright Scholar.

I've been to the Olympic Training Center three times, dozens of clinics and probably hundreds of workshops, but I have never had my eyes opened as clearly as this weekend. Safety, performance, tension relaxation…..everything seemed to swirl around until I had those "aha" moments and the whole days work made perfect sense.

I think that the ability of the faculty to be open and honest about learning…. The need to keep learning…. was/is brilliant. John summed it up well in his talk with the story of Picasso…. The RKCs know a ton of stuff but teach the details very well. The details are the key, I think.

The manual is the best I have ever seen be far! Great resource, great stuff.

Keira Newton, Feldenkrais Practitioner, Santa Fe, NM

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner, Aikido

The hardest and most rewarding training ever! The knowledge provided by the instructors and Pavel was unbelievable, I felt confident with the information provided and will leave feeling confident providing info to my clients.

Thank you, one of the best experiences of my life.

Juan Bacca, Gym Owner/Personal Trainer, Dania, FL

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Wrestling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu background, blue belt, 2 time Naga Champion, Specialized in Functional Training, NCCPT certified, Own a fully equipped gym and MMA center.

I have experienced many great things in my life, from sports related to personal achievements. But I can honestly say that the RKC weekend was one of the best things that I could have done for myself. It was an experience with so many great aspects. I will take what I have learned and apply it in my profession and my life. Thank you RKC staff!

Overall I believe I am walking away with knowledge that cannot be replaced.

I cannot put it any simpler "professional" from the beginning to the end. The structure of the course is incredible. Curriculum is by far the best I have experience in any level of training workshop.

John-Logan Coots, Fitness Trainer, Petaluma, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

NASM CPT, Played football, baseball, Olympic weightlifting

A powerful in-depth experience that any one in the health and fitness industry should attend. It really open up my mind and had me looking at training in a whole new way. Thank you. Great job! Well done!

Top notch, class act all the way around. Pavel was a great instructor as well was very polite and knew how to take control of the entire event.

Very practical, fun, hands on and physically demanding. A good mix of academics with demonstrations and practice.

Susan Watkins Mutschler, General Mgr-Gold's Gym, Pasadena, MD

An almost endless supply of techniques to improve our own form and to assist improving the form and experience for clients.

An all around physical, mental, and spiritual experience that at times breaks you down to assist in giving the tools to build you back much better and the motivation to continue that on a constant basis.

I found all of the instructors to be very knowledgeable and helpful and eager to answer questions and help with technique. I found Pavel to be an inspiration and a great teacher and communicator of his knowledge. I felt very fortunate to be on Team Jones. Brett takes a lot of time and effort to make sure questions are answered and everything is clear. His utmost concern is safety and well being of the students. The assistant RKCs helped Brett very well to make sure we pushed ourselves hard, but stayed within ourselves to learn proper technique and avoid injury. It was a pleasure to be able to learn from Brett and his incredible knowledge and very understandable communication of it.

Light years ahead of any other workshop as far as physical testing, learning information and having to apply the learned information as part of the certification requirements.

William Drew, Massage Therapist and Instructor, Chico, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Some Karate, Bikram Yoga and basic weight lifting

As a rank beginner I learned an incredible amount of technique, principles, and respect for the kettlebells and the human body.

An intense and pleasurable learning experience with great instructors and assistants, very sincere with good humor and therapeutically sadistic workouts mixed in. I feel like I can really begin on the path to mastering using kettlebells now.

Pavel had a great presence, nice mix of authority plus friendly. Good listener, I appreciated him repeating questions and having other instructors do the same. Brett, Dr. Mike, Andrea were all great. Adrian on team DuCane was like a personal coach for me. Really helped.

Asha Wagner, Firefighter, Oakland, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

competed with Cal Poly SLO women's volleyball team

Absolutely mind blowing the sheer amount and wealth of information they were able to cram into 3 days. All of the instructor's knowledge, dedication and hard work show through.

Much more extensive, comprehensive and easily applicable than any other workshop, was like a light bulb going off, the stuff just plain made sense.

Jeffrey Zarling, Wine Merchandiser, Santa Maria, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

high school basketball/cross-country, ballet, various martial arts, weight lifting

Very satisfying. The philosophy involved in the RKC training and literature has, for myself, always been its most vibrant, liberating aspect. That philosophy was alive and well here in San Jose.

As I've read and studied Pavel's work over the last three years he has achieved near mythic status in my universe for all the wonderful discoveries his work has brought my way. It was a delight and a relief to find that he and his team were top caliber, caring people first and foremost.

Eric L Redd Jr, Trainer, El Segundo, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

former college track runner

It is very demanding yet extremely rewarding. It's not for everyone but for those who accept the challenge their knowledge and ability to help and work with others jumps incredibly. I feel much smarter and more confident after three days and at the same time thirsty for more knowledge. Recharged and ready to go.

The staff of instructors is top notch. My group leaders Sara Cheatham, Logan Christopher and Chuck Halbakken went above and beyond. Zar Horton provided constant feedback and suggestions also. The speakers and staff were impressive with their knowledge and ability to convey it.

Top notch workshop, right at the top- one of the best ever.

George Gomola, Asst. Fire Chief, Fairfield, CT

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Assistant Chief, Shift Commander Fairfield Fire Department; IAAI Firefighter Peer Fitness Trainer; SAQS Strength and Conditioning Coach; Sacred Heart University Men's Soccer Fairfield CT; Fitness Director, RNUNES Soccer Academy Bridgeport CT; Professional Soccer Coach Rnunes Soccer Academy; CJSA/USSA Lic.; Program Coordinator, Form and Function Strength Training, Fairfield Rec. Dept. Fairfield CT; CEO/Master Trainer Lakeside_FC Functional Conditioning Fairfield CT

This seminar caused a paradigm shift in my approach to life and fitness training. Be it sport specific or general fitness training, the concepts and basic tenants of KB training may be universally applies. Conventional wisdom teaches adaptation based on restrictions. KB teaches corrective strategies to remove restrictions.

Outstanding is inaccurate — it would not do justice to the depth of knowledge shared freely in this all too long, all too short certification challenge. Each door we open leads to many more, each filled to capacity with tools and knowledge. As one of our instructors put it: KB training is like a martial art. Our learning never stops it has always just begun.

It takes apart KB training to the core — literally down to the bone, and builds from there. Most weekend certification programs scratch the surface — this one cut to the bone.

Karen Ruby Brown, Midwife, San Diego, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Have been training with kbs at home on my own x 2 years, now training at Iron Core in San Diego. Teaching prenatal and postpartum kb classes there starting in March. I have an MFA from U of Illinois Chicago and an MSN from Yale in Midwifery. I am in the National Health Service Corps.

After learning correct linkage into the lats on day #1, my chronic neck pain resolved. It was a definite epiphany.

Difficult, challenging and quite outside my comfort zone. It stretched me in every direction physically, mentally, and intellectually.

Phenomenal - almost without exception the instructors were smart, skilled, articulate, personable, excellent role models and supportive. I had complete trust in their abilities.

Great group of participants. Very positive energy. Just a fabulous experience, which will stay with me. Can't wait for recert.

Name Withheld

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Navy Special Warfare Support

Definitely a worthwhile experience. While most of the presentation of the course was a matter of "preaching to the pastor" (non-ordained, granted), if this doesn't convince the skeptics of what this methodology can do for people in real-time, I'm at a loss for a better way. And since most, if not all attendees are already believers, best thing for them to do is get the tools and go out to spread the good word as faithfully as they can.

Rocks with all due hardness. Absolutely no comparison as far as other workshops. While most courses I've seen honestly mean well, the instructors are usually just guessing.

Danielle Atherton, Personal Fitness Trainer, San Jose, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

ACE Certification, spinning Certification

A very challenging and informational experience. I couldn't imagine learning all of this from a book; you have to do the workshop to get instant feedback.

There wasn't a lot of "fluff" like some of the other training certifications I have taken.

Mary Claudia Menifee, Admin, San Diego, CA

Excellent — it was hard to take it all in — in 3 days. I would have loved to spend more time with each instructor. They all came from different backgrounds and had so much to offer! Really enjoyed Dan John's lecture and marketing lecture.

Make longer — so many fabulous instructors and I only got to speak with a few of them.

Heidi Rothenberg, Massage Therapist/Personal Trainer, Co-Owner of Firebellz Kettlebell Studio, Albuquerque, NM

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Massage Therapist 1988 — Current; Certified (Baylor College of Sports Medicine, AFAA); Personal Fitness Trainer 1993 - Current

My experience with RKC was a pleasurable pain, it hurt so good. I am leaving with a full toolbox.

The quality of training I experienced would be likened to a movie that was really hyped and I went and ended up thinking it not only wasn't over hyped, but not hyped enough.

John Devitt, Personal Trainer, Castaic, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Personal Trainer since 1999, Performance Enhancement Specialist and Sports Fitness Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine

The most memorable training experience that I've eve encountered. The staff was amazing with their knowledge and expertise and willingness to share.

Instructor's knowledge: didn't matter which instructor was talking — I learned something from all of them. You guys are great! The marketing talk by John Du Cane: from his 2 hours talk I'm sure to double my income from the ideas he presented.

The quality of training and knowledge was OUTSTANDING! I learned something from every instructor whether it was in a lecture or just talking on the breaks. These people are top notch and it was well worth every penny I spent for the course!

Hands down the best training I've ever received in 10 years of training.

Keep up the GREAT work!

Daniel Peven, President, The Pension & Benefits Co, Berkeley, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Jock, tryout with Pittsburgh Pirates at age 17; trained and studied Aikido for 10 years, black belt

Generous, compassionate, open, tough, knowledgeable, sharing, diverse, expertise, exhausting, fun, illuminating, challenging and valuable are a few of the words I use to describe the RKC.

It's a perfect compliment to Ki Aikido which is basically like Tai Chi with throws and pins. This training is more immediately practical for me. It took me around 7 years to take the concepts taught in Aikido into a useful daily life form. Proper mechanics, flexibility, strength and endurance, all almost immediately available, increase quality of life.

Demetrius Jones, Athlete/Student, San Jose, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

San Jose State University Spartans football team

It gave me a chance to network with a lot of people with similar interest as me and it also gave me the knowledge that I need to advance my skills as well as help other with their needs.

These instructors were not only great at what they do; they were great people and know that they cared enough to get to know people personally, made all the difference.

All of the other training that I have done has been specific to the sport and can only be used for that sport with few exceptions. But it seems that no matter the need, kettlebells can be used universally, no matter what the need.

Colleen McClintock, Web Architect, Pacifica, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Iyengar Yoga Instructor

Outstanding certification course! The instruction was excellent. Great balance of instructing/doing.

The instructors were extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

Doug Dienelt, Owner-Personal Training Studios, El Macero, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

World Masters Powelifting Champ (IPF); American College of Sports Medicine; National Strength Conditioning Association

Excellent! Very comprehensive. Definitely one of the best certifications because of comprehensive nature and is not given easily. You know you are in a select group of people.

James Christopher, Student, Suquamish, WA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Babe Ruth State Champs '00; Big League State Champs '02, '03, '04; Two Years Olympic College soccer team

Amazing leaders, assistants. Very helpful. Great atmosphere — intelligent, common sense approach — approachable.

Great instruction, always willing to help asses problem, private instruction, big inspiration from the instructors — in the snatch test and work outs. Simple, fun, done right.

It blows the doors off almost everything else for what you get in a 3-day certification.

Everything has been amazing; the level of common sense and intelligent design to the instruction over three days is just unbelievable. People say its expensive long weekend. 2500 bucks and 3 days of pain or 250,000 bucks and 30 years of pain I'll take the 3 days!

Osvaldo Aponte, Personal Trainer, San Diego, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Practiced martial arts since 1989.
7 years in the US Army--Physical training instructor in every unit I served in.

Nothing short of perfection and simplicity.

Annette Dong, Mechanical Engineer, Seattle, WA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

I have a background in martial arts, rock climbing, skiing and kayaking and have instructed to various degrees in each of these activities. My current passion is acrobatics and weight training to gain specific strength for hand-balancing. Taking the RKC course is the natural progression as I usually end up sharing my passions through teaching.

This was one of the most strenuous weekends I have spent since climbing Rainier

It was all top notch. All instructors are articulate, credible and delivered their information in understandable language. Very low jargon factor.

I have taken several multiple day training seminars in skiing and kayaking. The RKC ranks amongst the best because there was a low student/teacher ratio and a high words/action ratio. That is lots of time to learn the skill, less time listening to someone tell you about how to do or teach something.

Diane Lee-Swanson, Personal Trainer/Massage Therapist, Campbell, CA

This was a great experience for me. I absolutely loved my team leaders and assistants and, of course, we had the best team! I thank my team leaders Mark Reifkind & "Doc" Cheng! Wouldn't have survived this without them.

Pavel is amazing — a little intimidating, but I did see him smile a couple times. I can only speak for my two instructors Rif and Doc, who made my experience extraordinary. Another instructor, Vincent Mays who was not part of our team but was extremely supportive and helpful and encouraging.

Cecilia Tom, Movement Instructor, San Francisco, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Designs and teaches courses in Pilates, Yoga & Tai Chi

It was an incredible experience being exposed to the best minds in the field. The workshop was a perfect blend of intellectual and experiential learning. Now the real training begins!

The instructors were very demanding which draws out the best in us. The training not only covers the 'hows' but also the 'whys', and it is inspiring to see instructors who are leaders in their fields bring their respective perspective to enhance our learning.

One of the best! I am particularly impressed with the quality of my fellow students. People came prepared and we started learning at a high level right away, and the tool kit we've been given is definitely immediately applicable even for working with my non-kb clients.

Very grateful for the experience.

Jeff McCombs, Doctor of Chiropractic, Santa Monica, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

3rd generation graduate Palmer College of Chiropractic; Author of "LifeForce" a Dynamic Plan for Health, Vitality, and Transformation.

A phenomenal challenge that inspired, motivated, and taught me to become the best I can be. The instructors and staff created the foundation for a life changing experience.

In spite of all the modesty that abounds in this group of professionals, there was never a lack of knowledge, or in-depth awareness surrounding kettlebells, exercise, physiology, or any other area for all the questions that came forward from the group. Pavel knows his stuff.

Alison Kenyon, Clown, Oakland, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

gymnastics, Chinese acrobatics and contortion, some hand balancing, 2 yrs "pro" wrestling training performance

My explosiveness feels like it has increased by a factor of at least 10.

One of the most challenging, enlightening, and humbling experiences of my life.

I was impressed by every instructor and assistant's eagerness to answer any and all questions, usually with some simple and earth—shattering epiphany. I tried to take every opportunity to eavesdrop on instructors answering other people questions, lest I miss out on another gem.

The only other training I've had, besides high school weight training, has been from RKCs or followers of Pavel's writing/DVDs. Still, this weekend was filled with way more detail an attention to perfection than I had gotten before. (My high school weight coach is not even from the same planet in comparison.)

I really enjoy and appreciate having lectures from several different RKCs with diverse backgrounds and areas of focus. Hearing from each new person put more "fuel on the fire" of my enthusiasm and got me excited about a new aspect of strength training.

Blair Ferguson, Personal Trainer, Northridge, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology, several National Certifications.

I got my butt kicked…. It by far surpassed my expectations and walked away with numerous tools to implement in my business and myself. It was good blend of information and exercise. I will be able to instantly apply everything I learned here to my program. I think the most important concept I will walk away with is that "strength is a skill".

Andrea and Mark where amazing instructors They were right on top of you when your technique was off. They took the time to explain things in more detail. They and all the other staff seemed very professional and very friendly. Everybody showed that they were there to help. Everybody seemed very open to answer any questions we may have had.

Hands down blew all other certs. out of the water. I was looking to get my ass kicked…. And I did. I was looking forward to getting tons of useful information… and I did. Some very complicated concepts broken down very simply. I will be able to instantly apply everything I learned here into my program.

I hope that the quality of the teachings continues at a high level. I hope RKC will continue to relay cutting edge and useful information to us. Continue to gather a team that will constantly be willing to look and see where changes and improvements would need to be made. I hope that RKC will always be able to take a progressive approach and stay on the forefront of the industry.

Adam Chiplinksy, 3D Animator, Los Angeles, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu - 15 years; Yang Mian Qi Gong - 5 years

An awesome weekend. While not for everyone, it was a test of forms and function, but more so a test of commitment in the forms of the physical, but mostly mental endurance.

Aside from training 9 hour days, six days a week in China (Kung Fu) for months on end, this was the most well balanced mental/physical testing and wealth of knowledge that I have experienced in such a short time (3 days).

Lisa Lesnikoski, Personal Trainer, San Jose, CA

Amazing, from a physical aspect being able to "compete" with people half my age. Knowing I can always push myself farther. Remembering to step out of my box as much as possible. And learning to become/strive to be more mentally tough disciplined.
Pavel: very good. His team of instructors were very fair and balanced. "Rif" was an excellent leader giving good instruction and insights. All my instructors were sensitive and gave good instruction and listened to us/me as well.

Gerard Rush, Sales, San Jose, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Body building

The RKC Certification was a very positive experience and I felt that I was part of a family.

Vincent Toomey, Student, Reno, NV

The RKC was physically and mentally demanding in ways I didn't think were possible. That's a good thing. The RKC has been on of the greatest learning experiences I've been through.

All of the instructors were knowledgeable and willing to help. If you weren't in their team and had a question, they would help you find the answer. They provided a safe environment and looked out for us.

Grace Chiplinsky, Medical Administrator, Los Angeles, CA

A very intense, educational experience. The course progress at a fast pace, the teachers keep you on your toes. If you thought you knew the basics… you realize that you can always improve.

I thought each of the instructors was very knowledgeable on the topics they spoke about. I liked the way you were made to focus on each correction session, on the chance you would be called up to answer and fix problems. Really made you focus on the topic at hand.

No other programs have worked so well in such a short amount of time, with really much less effort.

Jeffrey Larson, Personal Trainer/Business Owner

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Personal Trainer; Certified Massage Therapist
Trained in Kenpo Karate and Judo. Former Youth Football Coach, Former Football and Track Athlete

My expectation of the RKC certification was very high! What I realized during the weekend was that I was getting the best possible instruction from Pavel and very skilled RKC practitioners. I aspire and I am honored to be in the program and will follow those who walk before me. My expectations were surpassed. Thank you.

Excellent! What more needs to be said? Depth, scope, breaking down technique, remedial drills understanding the system as a whole. Love it!!

Excellent the depth and scope of material was unmatched! I have been to many certs this program rocks and by the way I like the fact that I can take what I learned and apply the knowledge immediately.

Louis Gorman, Sailor, Imperial Beach, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Boarding team member for the Navy's first full time HVBSS team. Combat Focus Instructor, S.P.E.A.R Instructor

30 hours of high quality well thought out training. I have never met so many different kinds of people so passionate about being fit. The integrity of which pales in comparison to most training.

Very direct and to the point, no room for lots of questions, because every angle I could come up with was covered. I have had many experiences with the physical. I was around people that wanted to be there. This course set that precedent.

Very nice and extensive facility, and I was treated like I belonged.

Chuck Mutschler, Physical Therapist, Glen Burnie, MD

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

College Wrestler, CSCS, wrestling coach, etc…

It is a physical, mental and spiritual experience that will change the way I will train and RX my patients in the future.

The RKC system is the most complete fitness system I have experience as a PT/CSCS. I attended numerous educations seminars. The RKC system is a very thought out system, how to best develop a clients fitness level in an effective manner.

Very complete in how to mobilize strength and FMC…. I can apply the technique I learned today to my clients on Monday (practical).

Michael Kootsouradis, Applications Engineer, San Jose, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Apex Nutrition certification, working toward NASM certification, many years living as a gym rat, many years playing football, high to collegiate level.

A wealth of technical knowledge applied practiced throughout the class. An eye opener the instructors were brilliant knowledge and the course was demanding both physical and on technique.

Absolutely wonderful, inspiring motivating. A very well thought out instructional course. Brilliant.

Far above and beyond any training I've received in every aspect of material, practice and instruction. Every page is a treasure chest of wealth.

Thank you Pavel, John and everyone associated, you guys and ladies Rock.

Michael Contreras, Fire Captain, Orange County, CA

Long, strenuous, very fulfilling, sense of accomplishment. Everyone was an expert — quality of instructors was excellent.

Kenneth Reiter, Fitness Trainer, Chico, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

I was a multi sport athlete in High School and still have some records standing in track and field. I competed in Decathlon in college, am a former Recon. Marine and have been a security contractor in Iraq. I won the Elite division in the Sept. 2007 TSC with a 455 dead, 16 10kg pull-ups and 107 32kg KB snatches. I have been a fitness trainer for over 10 years and am currently an RKC and have my CFT and SPN certificates from ISSA.

This course greatly improved my bag of corrective tools to choose from. This will certainly improve my ability to train more people more effectively. This course teaches one to focus on developing the basic movements of the body well by showing the most effective ways to use kbs for improved function.

The RKC is on par with the best in quality. The scope o the material is superior, especially when viewed from the purpose of practical application.

Thank you for pursuing excellence. In a world gone mediocre this is an antidote to weakness!

Michael Arseneau, Personal Trainer, Winnetka, CA

It was one of the most physically exhausting weekends of my life. The instructors pushed me passed my threshold without hurting me. I feel a major sense of accomplishment and I feel like I'm part of a family. I have the utmost respect to all the RKCs.

Pavel presence and knowledge were like no other. I've been to many other certifications and did not have the opportunity to learn from the person hosting the certification. Dr. Cheng was excellent his knowledge helped me a lot. I will definitely attend his classes. Brett Jones — great sense of humor. The blend with Pavel was great.

Hands on applicable tools in which I can implement tomorrow. It's a shame or it's sad how other certs lack quality info.

I thought the whole experience was excellent.

Kathy Martinez, Personal Trainer, Mesa, AZ

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

NPTI-CPT, NPTI-Nutrition; Z Health Level II Trainer

Great experience to learn more from the trainers (RKC) and especially Pavel, when he speaks you just want to listen.

I enjoyed all the trainers, because they have a great many things to share. My passion for the bell comes from my experience of Pavel's teaching style. He is very intense and makes training enjoyable. I find him to be a skillful instructor and you can tell he is also a passionate student!

Dan Joos, Personal Trainer, Los Altos, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Strength and Conditioning Coach, Men's Water Polo Program, Foothill College, Los Altos CA, 1993-1994
Strength and Conditioning Coach, Men's Water Polo Program, Santa Clara University,
Santa Clara CA 1994-1997
Personal Trainer 1994-present
ISSA, ACSM

Put me in contact to the best in the world. Reinforced my ability to succeed.

I came in on empty glass. I have over flown with informational knowledge. I will go away and use what I have retained. I will them "clean up" all that spilled over.

Outstanding well practiced instructors. I don't know how it could get any better for the time available.

I did not come to be the best; I hope to leave the most improved.

Charlie Fields, Entrepreneur/Tax Accountant, San Diego, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Competed in 2000 UCA Division I National Cheerleading Championships (Northwestern U)
Former competitive gymnast, dancer, and swimmer.

The RKC training transformed my kettlebell practice. Learning the ins and outs of the six primary lifts was very powerful, as were the accompanying teaching tips. I am very motivated to share what I have learned with my future clients.

Andrea Du Cane was great at delivering high-level information in manageable pieces. The training portions were very well presented.

Robin Sinclear, Paramedic, Durham, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

National Level NPC Figure Competitor
Tactical Strength Challenge-Sept '07-5th Place Women's Division
Women's Tri-Fitness Competitor

Pavel was amazing in how he could just watch someone for a few seconds, see what the issue was in their form, perform an appropriate correctional drill, and fix most of the issues immediately. Very cool.

Harris Brumer, Lawyer, San Diego, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

U.S. Military Academy at West Point (Class of 1997)
- 3 Time Letter winner in College Wrestling
- Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The RKC training not only met me expectations, it exceeded them! I consider it money and time well spent. The RKC has only inspired me to learn more and to train even harder.

Pavel is a very intimidating man. His knowledge is unsurpassed and he has amazing "presence". However, I was impressed that he's actually a very nice guy as well. Extremely approachable and friendly. But always professional. Mark Reifkind was my small group instructor. Simply awesome!

Far and away the best instruction/training weekend I have ever received. Amazing quality and great depth and scope.

Chris Holder is the man! The Koret Training Facility is amazing. He did a super job with the RKC training at SJSU. Dragon Door should definitely come back to Cali and give its RKC Level II here.

Michael Visscher, Personal Trainer, Fontana, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

BS, CSCS, 3 yrs division in track & field.

The RKC certification is an assembly of many highly qualified instructors who draw from varying bodies of knowledge to form a team that leaves no unanswered questions.

Physicality was great! All instructors must be able to practice what they preach, and that is exactly what the RKC certification requirements demand.

Biggest difference from other workshops, in my opinion, is practical use. The "what the hell effect," as explained by instructors, is an unbroken tool that needs no fixing. "Simple" exercises, performed with perfect technique, can produce excellent results.

Jason Burch, Bar/Restaurant Owner, Powell, OH

I feel this experience offered me a purposeful applicable challenge; as well it is educational and exciting.

I am very impressed at not only the extent of expertise but with the purposeful way that it (training and knowledge) is conveyed to the students.

Intensity, physical demand, thorough instruction was incredible. I felt as though the importance of conveying what is means to obtain RKC was held in high value and regard.

I feel as though in the coming days I may be able to analyze this experience more critically… but right now I have been given more mentally and physically than I had envisioned. This course/facility/experience exceeded my expectation. Thanks DD, Chris Holder and staff, and SJSU for the time and effort it took to give me (us) this opportunity.

Patrick Jernigan, Personal Trainer, San Francisco, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

CAAAAI/ISMI certified; Blue Belt, Ralph Gracie Jiu-jitsu

My mind and body got a great workout. The instructors inspired me to take my kettlebell training farther than I would have before.

Douglas Fioranelli, Trainer, San Bruno, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Strength Training, Martial Arts, BS, MA, CPT, CSCS, USAW CSN

The best and only way to learn is to do. Taking a written test after a few months of studying does not make you a trainer. Practicing the exercise, being coached, being critiqued and realizing how much there is to learn gives you the open mind to constantly work towards being a trainer. That is the RKC experience.

Great…. The best was organization. They were prompt, good at getting their students to pass (they seemed to care) with constant/careful corrective feedback.

No comparison, most of the others are not physical at all, they are philosophical. I like things that give me the confidence that I learned a skill that I can go home and teach the next day.

Best seminar ever.

Denena Ike, Environmental Coordinator, Elko, NV

Not as terrifying as imagined due to having a great instructor when being introduced to the kettlebells. Pavel was everywhere during the whole session and made everyone comfortable and shared so much of his knowledge that keeps folks coming back.

Pavel is awesome! He has a natural way with the people such that is someone needs to technique fixed — he can! His willingness to mingle with everyone is impressive..

Raul Lopez, Miner, Elko, NV

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

RKC — Recertifying at this workshop

Excellent. I came to get re-certified and I learned more valuable things. I learned a lot in the 1st certification and still more in this re-cert.

Eric Kenyon, Trainer, Oakland, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Combat veteran, paratrooper and sniper. College level Judo. Since 1994 weight trainer, theatre actor, dancer and director. From 1999 training dancers, actors and circus performers. Using Pavel's PTP and RIS since 2002, and Russian kettlebells since 2005.

The RKC made me a much better kettlebell trainer and teacher. I got to meet some excellent coaches and great people.

The quality of the RKC weekend was surpassingly excellent. The students as well as the instructors were very inspiring. An incredible amount of learning was packed into a very short time. I feel I have taken a quantum leap as an athlete and as a coach. The presence of world-class coaches like Dan John and Doc Fahey as students speaks volumes about the nature of this course. I very much enjoyed meeting two of my favorite training authors, my team leader, Mark Reifkind, and Coach Dan John.

The only thing that compares with the RKC course is training I have taken with other RKCs. There is some similarity to the very best of military instruction I have received such as US Army Pathfinder school, US Army Sniper School, 5th SFG Sniper School. Absolute professionalism is the similarity.

AJ Lee, Personal Trainer, Redwood City, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

1993-1996 competed in Mountain Bike Races
1993-1996 volunteer Urban Search and Rescue Menlo Park, Ca.
Certifications: ACSM,NASM

The workshop was a great learning experience all the instructors were knowledgeable and very thorough in their teaching, a wonderful experience.

Nicholas Sacoulas, Martial Arts Instructor, Fresh Meadows, NY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Owner and Director of Progressive Martial Arts est.1995
Full Instructor in Jun Fan/Jeet Kune Do the Filipino Martial Arts under Dan Inosanto
Instructor in Muay Thai under Surachai Sirisute
Associate Instructor in Combat Submission Wrestling under Erik Paulson
Senior Assoc Instructor in Sayoc Kali under Chris Sayoc
"Raw Dog" Member of the Dog Bros. Full Contact Stick Fighting Group

The team leaders/assistant instructors were always helpful and encouraging. My overall understanding and execution of the kettlebell exercises were dramatically improved over the 3 days.

Pavel's charismatic approach and in-depth knowledge of kettlebell training as well as sports science is world class. He has changed my perception of sports athletics and strength training. It was truly an honor to have finally met him. The RKC Sr instructors are in my opinion some of the most knowledgeable in the field.

The high standards give the program integrity. It took what I have been practicing, stripped it down and rebuilt it.

Marcus Martinez, Client Account Manager, Fullerton, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Tennis coach, Certified Personal Trainer through NCEP

The experience changed the way I view my business, kbs and strength and conditioning training all together. It has taught me so much and has given me so many tools that I feel supremely confident to take what I learned and not only teach it to others, but excel in my own quest for physical conditioning as well as my goals to become very wealthy. So many tools from training, to business, to marketing. Not to mention the pride I have for putting RKC next to my name.

I was impressed with Brett Jones, the way he taught was so easy to understand and his patience really came through. Pavel made things clear just like in his books which made it so easy to apply everything immediately. I really enjoyed Chris Holder's talks about being in RKC because it really drove the point home about how important it is and how it really changes the way you think.

Great quality. Great lectures. Dan John gave a great lecture which I found to be very useful. Focus on a few things: very smart everything I've been given will help tremendously in my training.

Brett Nichols, Gavilan College Strength Coach, King City, CA

Large amounts of knowledge and information by excellent instructors.

It's amazing that the kettlebell gives you a total body workout in such a minimal amount of time.

Eugene Sablan, Fitness Instructor, Vallejo, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

B.S. Kinesiology, NSCA CSCS, ACSM Health/Fitness Instructor

It was a wonderful learning experience. For any instructor it would be a great tool/model for learning how to assess, correct and test.

Great team. Great attitude. It was a great physical and mental course.

Keri Williams, Accountant, Spring Creek, NV

The hardest weekend I have ever enjoyed.

Kristen McLaughlin, Attorney, Denver, CO

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Just kettlebells. It helped me lose 60 pounds - and still losing. I am looking to change careers and want my new career to be in the sport and fitness industry.

I've been taught by the best. I only hope I can live up to the standards.

Awesome! This course is not for the faint of heart but it is worth it. Even if I don't get the certification it will have been worth every penny. I am very impressed with everyone.

Chris Jantz, Fitness Professional

RKC delivers on outstanding team of instructors and teachers that bring decades of knowledge to those dedicated individuals that attend. The wealth of knowledge is invaluable and recommends all serious fitness professionals to attend a RKC.

5 Star!

This training cert. was equal to 3 Only past courses I've taken all in one.

Jeff Passamani, Personal Trainer, San Jose, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Hartnell College record holder in discus, CHEK Institute - Golf Biomechanics, NASM - CPT, USA Weightlifting Association - Club Coach, NSCA - CPT, ISSA - CPT,

The best money I have ever spent on a certification, and the only one that makes sure you practice what you preach.

The quality of training was the best I have ever been around. Brett Jones helped me the most since he was my team leader.

More excited about fitness than I ever have before!

Ben Cobian, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach, San Jose, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

College Football Player, 4 Year Letter Winner, 2 Time all-conference, Schooled in Kettlebells, Olympic Lifts (Snatch, Clean)and all ground based Free Weight Exercises (Barbell Squats, Deadlifts, RDL's, Good Morning etc.)

Pavel is a genius.

Gary Toppins, Martial Arts Instructor, Riverside, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Military 2 years, Martial Arts Instructor for 35 years.

The quality of personal and instruction surpassed my expectations. The course was intense but fair and well worth the time.

I was very impressed with the depth of their background; they pulled their information from so many different perspectives.

This was by far the most informative training weekend I ever took. I feel I am walking away with a bag load of knowledge that I can slowly pass on.

Steve Pavlet, Physical Therapist, Monterey, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Physical Therapist, Athletic trainer, Orthopedic Clinical Specialist

This is the top of the mountain. Kettlebells are not just exercise, but a technique, with a tremendous amount of detail involved. This course is about the detail of the technique, and can benefit anyone.

You provided (Pavel) me with an epiphany — "strength as skill". This is much more than just exercise and involves the mastery of a skill. Thank you, as I will now apply this to all that my patients do.

Pretty clearly, I hold Pavel, Mark Cheng, Mark Reifkind, Brett, Andrea, etc in the highest regard. All are extremely bright/knowledgeable, and have an excellent way of communicating their goals for your performance. Additionally, all seem to truly invest in your performance while at the course.

I believe you guys are on to something very powerful and important, with a very broad application. You provide outstanding instruction, feedback and support and provide a wealth of information. Thank you.

I commend Chris Holder and SJSU on their wonderful facilities and hospitality. I felt the facilities were top of the line.

Scott Matsuura, Physical Therapist, San Jose, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

I have been a physical therapist for 10 years in outpatient orthopedics. I have worked with patient rehabilitation for all orthopedic injuries and some neurological injuries. I have treated patients with sports injuries, post-surgical rehab, and worker's compensation.

One of the best experiences in regards to my own physical conditioning and knowledge of training others. I will use what I learned this weekend for the rest of my life and career.

By far the most knowledgeable group of instructors I have seen on posture, body mechanics, movement, exercise, corrective exercise, and training. These instructors would be/already are great as physical therapists.

The material at the RKC can be applied immediately to anything currently being performed. It is in most ways superior to what I am currently doing with patients.

I want to give Chris Holder and his staff a big Thank you! If it wasn't for the RKC in San Jose I might not have signed up.

I want to Thank Dragon Door for bringing Pavel and kettlebells to the people like myself. It has made a big difference in my life and those around me.

Zachary Michalski, Personal Trainer, Fremont, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Division 1A College Football. Chek Exercise Coach/NASM.

First rate. Well informed and up to date scientifically and practically.

Much more physically demanding. It offered much more of a balance of physical and mental challenge.

Rich Kocher, Personal Trainer, Poughkeepsie, NY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

nasm personal trainer cert, ace personal trainer cert, 4th level jkd kung fu, a few years goju ru and soo bok do karate

It's great for any serious kettlebell enthusiast.

Pavel is the man. All the instructors were informative, knowledgeable and helpful.

The training is outstanding. Some of the info I've learned from your guys DVDs and books, so some was review. But as far as the info in the books and this seminar, it is all great. Very useful and you can apply it almost immediately and feel results or know that with a little practice it will go a long way. I feel I will leave the course better then when I came. Thank you.

Brett Joerger, Business Owner, Yuba City, Ca

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

High School sports, various martial arts

The RKC course gave such comprehensive detail to all the kettlebell exercises. Coming into the course I thought I knew the basic drills very well. I had no idea how much I did not know.

Pavel was fantastic. I learned quite a bit from all instructors.

Kettlebells themselves in my opinion are superior to other training equipment, that alone made any knowledge gained in the course superior.

Great course. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks to all involved.

John Dimitriadis, Casino Dealer, Elsmere, KY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, AKC Coach (American Kettlebell Club)

The certification was nothing but a positive supportive atmosphere. Met a lot of great people from all over the US and beyond. Made some friends also.

Pavel and team are well knowledgeable. Would love to pick Pavels knowledge of kettlebells and strength and conditioning. The other RKCs were very friendly and kept things fun.

I don't think anything else compares! This is hands on. We are put through workouts and showed all techniques. Showed plenty of corrective measures. This isn't your home study course where you read a book and your certified. We had to earn it, which is great. I'm more of a "hands on" "show me" type. I learn much better when actually showed how to do something as opposed to read, read, and "just" read.