Back to Upcoming Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop

June 2005 Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop — Participant Praise

Melanie Simon, Navy Physical Therapy Technician

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Master Fitness Specialist – Cooper Inst.

“This has been the most fabulous workshop I have ever attended. Kettlebells will be my new workout of choice.

RKC will be a very good thing for me to use with some of our SEALs that want to return to duty following injury especially those ready for more advanced training.”

R. J., Recon Marine

“The Senior Instructors were very attentive, approachable, and professional! The amount of personal attention was outstanding, as was the instruction. It was awesome going through the workouts with the senior instructors, and seeing that they could truly walk the walk, rather than just verbally instructing.

Top notch training. Really, really fantastic instruction. On all levels, it was the best training I have personally received for physical conditioning.”

Richard Brebant, Fitness Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Retired Professional Hockey Player, Level II Coaching Qualifications, Certified Trainer

“By far it has been the best certification program I have attended thus far.

It has been a great experience to see and hear great instructors talk and perform with KB. The insights and training tips passed on to myself will be beneficial in teaching others.”

Christian Lombardo, Personal Performance Coach

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

USAW East Coast Gold Cup Challenge Nov. 2002 2nd Place 85kg Novice Division; Five years tiers 3 persona; trainer Equinox Fitness Clubs; Six Months Eskrima; Specialty: strength, weight loss, athletic performance, Olympic weight lifting, nutrition guidance

“The best certification I have ever taken! And the most AWESOME and PRACTICAL training I have ever received! All the instructors were critical on every DETAIL of our exercise performance! Most of ALL, instructors were very intellectual and very considerate in learning ALL techniques perfectly.”

James Wissing II, Student/Security Officer

“An enlightening demonstration of professionalism, skill, and above all, flawless instruction. Everyone was charged and enthusiastic, creating a most enjoyable and memorable experience. The RKC is essential for anyone interested in kettlebells. The RKC is truly in a league of its own, the apex of training. The instructors and assistant were absolutely superb.

This seminar has changed the way I view the kettlebell in how narrow my view really was. The workouts, drills, and teaching skills have opened new ideas and possibilities I would have never gained on my own. Great experience.”

Jeremiah M. Perez, Muay Thai Ins./Close quarter combat instr./ protection spec

“High caliber and sure to set new standards in the fitness industry. I think one word says it all, ok maybe two “unwavering consistency”. Across the board it was consistent, the standard expected by all instructors, the information presented by all Instructors. If an instructor told me something it was factually correct.”

Scott Storey, Fitness Instructor/Life Guard

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Training background in kettlebells and the deadlift. Certified through Premier Training and the ISSA.

“An outstanding learning curve for me by the best instructors I have ever come across. Excellent personal attention by the trainers. I learned so much about what I wasn’t doing correctly. The seniors were very clear, concise and helpful and I will definitely leave here as an improved trainer to my clients. I felt I didn’t have to say much because I had so much quality to listen to and I’m very grateful for the opportunity given to train here.

This course was far superior to any other I have done in the past. Everything in the course will be of use to me for my future career.”

James Bower, Personal Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Previous National leaguer basketball and competitive boxing and Thai Boxing; BSC Sports science degree; experience in strength training and power lifting.

“Excellent training and instruction in a positive and motivating environment. All the instructors were on point and friendly which created a positive environment for all participants. This has been my most memorable training experience and well worth the trip from London.

The quality of training and knowledge on the RKC exceeds anything that I have previously undertaken. The information is kept simple and practical so that time and effort is not wasted.”

Eric Johnson, Athletic Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

20 years of Martial art experience; full combat weapon matches/stick fighting; Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Tae Kwon do, train Clients for semi-pro football, Pan American games in karate, general fitness ages 6-84

“The training received has opened my eyes even more. I came to the cert 2 years ago and it has changed immensely for the better. It is a lot tougher than before but I have learned so much more of what it takes to become a better instructor.

The knowledge passed on by these instructors will help me in all aspects of my business, from the exercises to marketing to motivation, and looking at all the different ways they train can help me work on my training methods. I couldn’t ask for better instruction. If you asked a question someone had the answer.

Other certs I have taken, AFAA, ISSA, are great bookwork but they lack application and applied knowledge. I feel almost like I wasted money on the others because I missed all the useful stuff. Thank you for the opportunity to work with everyone, it is the best training course I’ve ever taken and I will be back again and again.”

Kevin Perrone, Instructor/Personal Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

ACSM HFI, Rock Climbing

“I felt I got so much info the day it would have been worth the price for one day, let alone 3. Seeing the technique of the instructors was elegant. I got more out of it then I could have hoped for. Instructors were extremely approachable and willing to answer any kind of question. You can clearly see the passion they have toward what they do.

It was clear to see why they are experts. I was impressed with the body of knowledge and level of help presented in books, dvd, and forum before I came here after being here I was blown away. I wish I had the cash to take more workshops.

Depth of material and practical applications exceeded applications presented. Focus on ability to teach was more practical then anything else I’ve come into contact with. Scope was perfect any more broad the depth would have suffered. Excellent balance.

I take Ritalin for ADHA and it knocked my BP up to 150 over 100 and resting HR in the low 80s. To fix it they wanted to add Beta Blockers, I took up running and got it down to 120/80 and low 70s, but KBs have me down to 90/60 and low 40s HR.”

Pamela MacElree, Systems Analyst/Photographer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Trained with kettlebells for about 12 months

“This was once of the best weekends I have experienced, the talent of all the instructors combined with the backgrounds and personality of al the “victims” thing made for a well diversified environment. Everyone was great. Quality was outstanding. Very nice how each Sr. instructor could bring a different aspect or technique to the group. No one dominated anyone, every instructor was willing to help.

Practical use is probably the top quality aspect of this program. Haven’t done other physical training programs but I was an athlete and it far surpassed any training that I had in sports.”

Randy Hauer, Gyms Manager, strength coach, trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Eclectic sports background that includes power lifting, distance running, cycling and triathlon. The past 8 years I have devoted my interest and time principally to Olympic weightlifting as a master athlete, coach, and referee. Kettlebells entered the mix about 4 years ago and I train not only myself but others with them as well.

“A weekend of personal growth and development beyond a mere athletic training. I was at turns in despair then exhilarated, confused then enlightened, near complete exhaustion then rejuvenated. I learned as much about my capacities as I did about KBs.

Excellent organization – not bogged down in details; hands on participating training. For its particular niche – physically more demanding than USAW trainings with comparable materials.”

Doug Dienelt, Personal Training Studio (Fitness Together)

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Member of 1966 NCAA Indoor Track Championship team (Kansas University). World Master Champ. Twice (IPF) and National Champ. Many times – Power lifting. World record holder )IPF) – Masters. Squat 601, bench 402. RL 633= Age 57. Drug Free

“Kick butt! Very sore! Not too much theory and lots of application. The best training program I’ve ever attended. Humbling!!”

Bill McPherson, Correctional Officer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Prior Marine Corps Infantry/security forces. Marine Corps MOUT instructor (urban combat). Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. 13 years martial arts experience, currently teach and train martial arts.

“I learned more about swings on my first day of training than in the past two years I’ve been using KBs. Pavel and the instructors were friendly, yet brutal. This has been one of the finest instructional courses I have ever attended.”

Chris W. Brown, Software Engineer/Part time personal trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

NSCA- CPT, high school baseball, skiing, hiking, and fitness for office workers

“About mid way through the first day I realized I was no longer concerned with the certification. Not that I expected to automatically pass by any means but I was happy and satisfied just being here with so many professionals soaking up knowledge. By far three of my best days in 26 years on this planet.

It blew everything else out of the water. I learned more in 3 days than I thought was possible.”

Mathew McNamara, Pilot

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

General fitness/conditioning, ACE personal trainer cert.

“In any industry, it is difficult to collect a group of highly knowledgeable experienced, talented individuals who can not only teach their trade but do so without egotistical bickering and backstabbing “one-up-manship”. My hat is off to Pavel for collecting an excellent group of instructors.

Unbelievable! The whole staff provided literally decades worth of knowledge and experiences into a very understandable and useful three day course. Far above the average “fitness” courses in terms of both scope and detail. The amount of useful “Hands on” info provided is astounding.”

Chris Mays, Deputy Jailor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Use of force Instructor, FTO Field training officer, Instructor of European combative certs., Muay Thai, Tea Kwon do, wrestling etc.

“The level of knowledge that I was exposed to was immeasurable. It improved me one everything from posture, joint stability and strength.

As a use of force instructor for the Hennepin Cnty Sherrif’s Office and a training professional with 12 years of experience I was impressed. Although this was a kettlebell cert I learned more about how to conduct myself as a professional trainer. Pavel and the senior RKCs are the best I have seen. I was impressed.

This is the best training I have had. As a law enforcement professional the tools I learned here will make my job easier and allow me to go home safely.”

Jessica Brock, Wine Consultant/Horse Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Professional Equestrian, CHA Certified Instructor, specializing in upper level dressage, competitive rock climber until the age of 17.

“One of the best weekends of my athletics life! It was hard work but I learned a lot from Tough Love! I would recommend the RKC for anyone wanting to perfect their technique for teaching or just for personal gain.

The instructors this weekend were incredible. Some of the most knowledgeable and capable athletes… not to mention instructors. And the training led by these instructors was above par! They may made us hurt – but I’d do it again next weekend!

It compares well, respectively, to the CHA (Certified Horsemans Association) Certification training. Safety was the focal point of the weekend. But the in-depth step by step drills were icing on the cake! Better than I expected!”

John Kaupp, Strength & Conditioning Coach

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Division 1A Football –Cal Poly, Olympic Lifting

“The RKC course expanded my knowledge of strength training not only as it applies to kettlebells, but other types of training as well. The course teaches you about the principles (not just the exercises) of KB training and how to apply them to your training and most importantly the training of others.

The depth and breadth of knowledge of the guys and ladies is hard to match. They walk the walk. The simplicity with which everything is explained is great. The movements are broken down into their simplest form and easy to understand why they work. Their insistence on mastering the basics is one thing that I will take with me.

I have been lucky enough to train under great strength coaches such as Chris Holder, Mike Burgener, Jon Francis and even the great Steve Cotter himself. This was still as evil as advertised and some of the best instruction around.”

Greg Killian. Fitness Instructor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

2004 NAGA blue belt BJJ Champ, golden gloves boxer, undefeated in mixed martial arts, IFPA certified instructor

“One of the bets experiences of my life. Extremely thorough. Breaking the basics down. Ass kicking workouts. Pavel and the senior Instructors were awesome and the training and knowledge of the instructors far surpassed any expectations.

The RKC training blows any other certification out of the water – in terms if quality, scope of material and practical use. This is one of the best experiences of my life. I’ve learned more in 3 days then I have since I’ve been personal training (5 years) I am honored to be a part of the RKC.”

Jared Savik, Owner of Savik Asphalt Sealing & Fitness you can use!

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

2004 GS National Champion, extensive L.E. background and special operations, state high school wrestling champion

“Better than any other LE or military training where it’s “just do it” at the RKC it’s here’s how to do it and do it exceptionally.”

Alan Baker, Martial Arts Instructor & School Owner, Personal Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

24 years in the martial arts, multiple black belts, 99/04 Hall of Fame S

“Outstanding course, I would hugely recommend it to anyone in the combat sport or self-defense field. Pavel is very good at relaying information, he breaks the drills down very well. I was also very impressed with Steve Maxwell, he is an outstanding Instructor.”

Patrick Workman, Teacher

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

State/National Drug Free – gear free power lifting champion, also state/national record holder 242 division

“The best/ most beneficial training I have ever been exposed to. What can possibly be said about Pavel that hasn’t already been said? He is without question the most informative yet approachable expert I have ever met! Both Steve Cotter/Steve Maxwell were very helpful and supportive. Both are excellent and patient instructors. Although I only spoke with Rob Lawerence briefly he too was extremely approachable and helpful.”

Steve Brown, Pharmacist

“These are world class trainers here. I’ve had trainers who were way too easy. Not here. The quality was superb, the scope was extensive (covered all the basics) and very practical – I have a lot of great info to take home.”

Tom Bennet, Executive

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Surfer, Kiteboarder, Competitive Paddle Boarder

“The RKC is a first class, very well run program. Professional and thorough.”

Marisa DeMaio, Personal Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Ballet, English Riding, Weight training, dance, 1 yr KB, Galaxy/freestyle training

“This course was the best and most comprehensive means of assessing my skills both as an RK lifter and as an instructor. I have a better understanding of my strengths and weaknesses. In addition – most fun I have had in years!

Unbelievable. I have a much better understanding of basics, how to teach and apply. The training was priceless, the value inestimable.

No comparisons. No parallels. I feel as though I am coming away with info/techniques that are applicable to numerous/various populations. I also know that this was just a sample of all that RKC has to offer, so I am also planning to attend additional seminars.

Absolutely the best ever seminar. I could do this every day. Even if I pass today, I want to be back in September just to “check up” on my skill level. I felt like I was pushed and tested in a “good” way. Until you come to this seminar, you just cant be sure of your skill level, mastery of the basic moves, nor performance ability. It’s really a must for lifters of all levels, from novice to instructor.”

Steve McNamara, Physical Therapist

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Physical Therapist, Personal trainer, Clinic Attendiship in a nationally acclaimed physical therapy student intern program at the Salt Lake VA medical Center

“Pavel has a wellspring of knowledge that extends far beyond strength and conditioning. He even has a keen understanding of the rehabilitation side of things. His concepts apply nicely to the physical therapists toolbox.

I would not have come to recertify if I had not found the quality and practicality of the info to be superior to any other physical training or didactic course I’ve ever taken.”

Geoff Neupert, Fitness Professional

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

1999 105 kg NJ State Weightlifting champion, 2000 USAW National Qualifier, For Div. I Big East Strength & Conditioning Coach, co-owner/professional trainer director – trainee personal trainer, NSCA-CSCS, USAW , NASM-CPT

“Very comprehensive – great emphasis on efficiency of movement and economy of effort (finding the “best” way to perform an exercise). Very high quality individuals. My overall impression was that they were true leaders in the exercise field – that is to say, they were genuine servants. They were adamant that we should not only know but feel comfortable teaching these techniques to others.

The most practical training course I have ever taken. Real, hands-on, no nonsense information to get clients using KBs ASAP. This is an absolute must in getting clients the results they demand quickly and safely.”

Sara Cheatham, Student

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Community Health Promotion, Racecar driver, go-cart racer

“The ultimate comprehensive, hands on training for learning and instructing RKC.”

Ryan Willaims, Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

16 years of wrestling: folkstyle, freestyle, Greco Roman; MMA and submission grappler, physical culturist

“An unparalleled course in physical culture. A great place to interact with passionate and knowledgeable athletes, coaches and people. It is unmatched. Clarity, attention to detail, and friendliness was great. Pavel wasted no words in his presentations. All principles were taught in clear, efficient terms. It was deeper in quality and had more practicality than any training I have done. The instructor-lead workouts rivaled that of any of my sports training I have done in terms of endurance, strength, and mental toughness.”