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See information on the next Russian Kettlebell Challenge
Certification Workshop in Denmark

September 2005 Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop — Participant Praise

Doug Nepodal: Trainer/Gym Owner, Medina, OH

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Graduate in Child Development. ASP certification.

“I have been to five nationally recognized personal training seminars and learned nothing in comparison to three days at the RKC. No other certification comes even close.”

Jon Hinds: Owner of Monkey Bar Gymnasium and VP of Lifeline USA-Fitness Equipment, Madison, WI

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Gold Medalist Pan Am Games – Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Over ten years of training in BJJ. NBA strength and conditioning coach LA Clippers. MLB strength and conditioning coach – Darryl Strawberry, Eric Davis And lots more. Honors & Instructor (7yrs) for NASM, certified by NSCA.

“Excellent course, with great instruction and I highly recommend it to anyone who is serious about gaining a strong & powerful body. Best complete course I’ve ever taken w/ really useful knowledge and materials.”

Todd Baden, Strength & Conditioning Coach/Gym Owner, Toledo, Oh

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

USA Weightlifting SR coach. NSCA- CSCS, ACSM

“This is one of the best training programs for practical application I have ever attended. Too much of my previous course was focused on theory. Overall, this course was outstanding, and I am excited to get back and apply the techniques to my athletes and clients.”

Prentiss Rhodes: Chiropractor/Personal Trainer, Chicago, IL

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

1994 Silver Medalist, Collogiate Taekwondo Championships.
3^rd degee Blackbelt Taekwondo, other styles: Jiu Jitsu/Int
NSCA-CCSP
ACBSP – Certified Chiropractor Sports Physician
Specialty in Injury Rehab.

“This certification training is the most informative and comprehensive program I’ve taken on physical culture. The instructors were elite as they have mastered theory and practice. Pavel and all the instructors “left no stone unturned” with the constant attention to detail.”

Mark Bennett: Teacher, Entrepreneur, Personal Fitness Trainer, Gaithersburg, MD

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Baseball in college, former US Marine Corps. Hsing-i, Kung Fu

“Pavel Tsatsouline and the other instructors were superb, always willing to answer questions, very professional, and very, very proficient at what they teach. I was very proud to attend.

This was certainly one of the top three in my life’s experience. I would not hesitate to recommend this training to anyone who seriously wants to be trained the right way.”

Wil Boyce: Student, Certified Personal Trainer, Bartlesville, OK

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Competitive athlete in football & track at the high school and collegiate levels. Certified as a Physical Training Specialist through the Cooper Aerobics Institute in Dallas, TX.

“Unlike other certifications I’ve been through, I believe the RKC has furnished and equipped me w/solid principles and practical know-how that I can take back and share with my clients with confidence. The focus and simplicity of the RKC teaching is 1st rate.”

James Rosamilia: Doctor Of Chiropractic, Stillwater, MN

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

MN record holder (unofficial) in javelin throw in several age groups.

“It was the most impeccably organized, information dense, yet seamlessly well presented fitness experience I have ever attended. Instruction at all levels was tough yet clearly aimed at sharing knowledge verbally, visually, and through corrective “tough love” I’m glad I did it. I’m glad it’s over.

All the teaching was shared in wonderful open-hearted attempt to truly impact knowledge and wisdom. Lot of time for questions. Thoughtful attempts to take every question seriously and answer thoroughly.“

Lauren Brooks: Personal Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

B.S. in Kinesiology, emphasis in fitness, nutrition & health
Certified by American Council on Exercise.

“The most valuable and memorable course I have ever been put through. An amazing amount of quality information that has completely changed myself as a person.”

Perry Brown: Loss Prevention Manager, Howard, OH

“I love pain and this is as good as it gets. Once could not ask for better training then this. It will desissify you and make you a better person. Top notch! The best around!”

Carolyn Brumfield: Owner Sorrento Valley Racquetball and Fitness Center. Muscle Balance and Function Development Trainer. San Diego, CA.

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified in Fitness Instruction and Exercise Science UCSD. Muscle Balance & Function Development. Practitioner/Certified in 1999/current licensed affiliate. Fitness director and teacher for mat Pilates Step with wgts. Hip Hop and Basic Step.

“I feel the certification training was thorough, challenging, and enjoyable. I will be sending some of my trainers to complete this awesome course.

Prior to the workshop I had ready many books and looked at the videos from Pavel and other instructors. I knew that the information was of high quality and would be invaluable. After participating this has deepened and I was thoroughly impressed with each instructor. They all communicate clearly and confidently and their mastery of the material comes through.”

Marlise Cairns: Director, Edenglen, South Africa

“Superb. There was a positive, immediate feedback with every task set. This workshop is great for people who want to learn how to instruct others in kettlebells. I like the way it gave practical application for every aspect of what we learned. Thanks for a very professionally ran workshop.”

Tim Clavette: Electrical Engineer/Fitness Instructor, Madison, WI

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Natural Trainer: Monkey Bar Gym

“The seminar is a fine-tuned machine; every session is succinct and efficient. Every instructor extremely knowledgeable and confident in responding to students.”

Dennis Desjardins, Chiropractor, Calgary Alberta, Canada

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Boxing/Kickboxing/Weightlifting

“Awesome. Very impressed with attention to detail, purpose and intent behind drills demonstrates thoughtful, intelligent organization. Ruthlessly effective. Excellent – consummate professionals, a pleasure to meet and to be train by.”

John Disimone III, Judo BJJ Competative Athlete, Philadelphia, PA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

5th Degree Blackbelt Aikido, 3rd Degree Blackbelt Judo, Purple Belt/Assist. Instructor Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, National/International competitor in both Judo And Jiu Jitsu.

“Everyone – was very gracious with their time and knowledge. There was no holding back of information, in the idea of saving something to sell later. Everything was made available. No secrets. Thanks everyone.”

Joe Droual: Martial Arts Teacher, Huntington, NY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

35 Years Martial Arts Teacher.
10th Dan Soke Chowa-Ryu Karate/ju Jutsu
7th Level Sash Kang-Neichin Gung Fu.

“I really enjoyed the personalized attention and core mixed with the discipline. The camaraderie itself was most enjoyable. Quality of training was quite good in that everything was explained in good detail. I can comfortably say this being a martial arts teacher for 30 years. It has been a pleasure being in and being taught by a group of true professionals. Honestly, sincerity and old-care values of discipline shined throughout the course.”

Moses Dungca: Gymnastics Instructor, Caddie at Wynn Golf Course, Las Vegas, NV

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Floor Exercise Silver Medalist 1986 USA National Gymnastics Championships
Arizonia State Universtiy Gymnastics team member 1986 NCAA National Champions
10 years experience in entertainment shows in amusement parks and Las Vegas casinos

“This is the most brutal, yet enjoyable type of certification I’ve ever experienced. I really appreciate the fact that Pavel and all of the senior instructors all “walk the walk” and not just “talk the talk”. My goal is to emulate them and pass on the knowledge to tall who would like to know it. You cannot compare this certification to anything. The quality, scope, and material are second to none.”

Benjamin Eaton: Police Officer, Elkhart, IN

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

3rd Degree Purple Belt in Brailian Jiu-jitsu under Carlson Gracie, Avid competitor in Sport BJJ, Submission Wrestling, And MMA, 2nd Degree Black Belt in traditional Jiu-jitsu

“The RKC instructors were extremely knowledgeable. Pavel was particularly forthcoming and enthusiastic on giving advice and encouragement. The RKC has been the most brutal and effective strength and conditioning training course I have been involved in.”

Amy Weisberger: Massage Therapist, Columbus, OH

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Competetive powerlifter. 2 all time totals 123 lb and 132 lb.

“I learned tons of new skills. I feel much more grounded and my kinesthetic awareness and balance have increase in just a few days. Everyone was knowledgeable and direct to the point. They really stretched themselves to work with each individual’s learning style.

This course had about 5 times more information packed into 3 days. The instructor pushed us about 5 times harder. I have a lot more confidence in my ability to retain and apply these skills.”

Kelly Ellzey: Co-Owner Of Animation/UFX Studio, Glendale, CA

“I was at the 2003 certification and the training has improved immensely – and I thought it was good before. Much better, simpler tool to teach your clients proper from and safety. I think the added emphasis on marketing yourself and retaining clients is filled with absolute gems of information. The quality of training is superb. All of the RKC senior instructors are very knowledgeable and generous with their information.”

Jeffrey Ferguson: Police Detective, SWAT Team Member, Las Cruces, NM

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Eleven yrs law enforcement. Five yrs on SWAT team
Physical Fitness Specialist – The Cooper Institue Dallas TX.
Physical Training Instructor – Las Cruces Police Academy, LCPD.
New Mexico Dept of Public Safety – Physical Training Instructor. Certified SWAT Fitness Specialist.

“The most enjoyable pain I’ve ever had. Enjoyed meeting many professional people with same views and ideas. The quality of training was excellent. The knowledge was beyond belief. Really enjoyed the different takes on the same ideas from senior instructors, due to their different backgrounds.”

Andy Frigo: Graphic Designer, Platteville, WI

“I never enjoyed pain as much as I have here at the RKC training. I learned more about the physical body here than in the 27 years I’ve been alive on earth.”

Barbara Fritz: Child Services Provider, St Paul, MN

“It was challenging and rewarding. I was pushed to work to perfect my skills and I learned a lot! I am so happy I attended the training, am thankful for the excellent teaching, and proud of what I accomplished over the 3 days.”

Travis Green: Certified Athletic Trainer, Cottage Grove, MN

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Athletic Trainer – MN Board Of Med. Practice
Certified Strength And Conditioning Specialist – NSCA.
Certified Massage Therapist

“I have been to hundreds of seminars and conferences and this one has been the most educational, entertaining, demanding, and inspirational of all. The pain is well worth it. I am a hands on learner and the supervised drills were just what I needed to understand what true kettlebell training is.”

James Hemmila: Personal Trainer, Schaumberg, IL

“Well worth the money. It is as good as advertised. This course far exceeded any other training course that I have attended. The practicality and material are well as the exercises displayed, ready to put into immediate practice.”

Donnie Howell, State Trooper, West Hamlin, WV

“It’s the hardest and most intense training I’ve done. In an evil way the most enjoyable as well. Probably some of the most knowledgeable people I’ve had opportunity to learn from, any question asked was quickly answered with no hesitation. It made me have more confidence in the whole experience. The quality is excellent, scope – it covered it all, I’ll use it everyday personally and the body movement will help in my job especially.”

Arturas Kolgovas: Personal Trainer, Chicago, IL

“Totally professional, very well organized seminar, which provides a maximal level of education. I have never experienced a more comprehensive, easy, understandable, useful training. Any other trainings I have attend weren’t even close in terms of education compare to RKC training.”

Nicholas Martin: Fitness Counselor, Niagara Falls, NY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

AFAA PTC, APEX Nutrition Coach
Casal’s School Of Fighting Arts/Instrucor

“The RKC Certification is the cutting edge in overall fitness areas.”

David Matthews: MD, Charlotte, NC

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

USMC – Recon
Colgan Power Program Trainer

“Be in shape, but be prepared for a unique training method that tests your endurance, flexibility and strength. You will find that you are not in as good shape as you thought. Excellent quality of instructors.”

Elise Matthews: Grad Student, Charlotte, NC

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

IA Soccer Goalie, ACSM
Colgan Power Program Trainee

“An intense, concentrated workshop on how to ensure safety above all with your clients. A demonstration on how well-rounded kettlebell training can be and the many platforms for which they can be applied to the general public.

Excellent knowledge and the thing I liked most was that every one of the instructors had a different style of teaching and each of those styles worked well for them. Same for quality of training each had little tricks of the trade that worked for them to share with the group.”

Joseph Meissner: Martial Arts Instructor, New Orleans, LA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Trained for 9 Years in Shaolin-do Kung and Tai Chi, 7 Years in Pa Kua Chang, and 3 Years in Hsing-I.

“I’m really impressed with the depth of talent and wisdom assembled in the RKC. Pavel has articulately and elegantly fused the knowledge from many athletic disciplines and created a coherent system for teaching strength in power. The quality was second to none. The scope was perfect for a 3 day seminar not too much to retain, but deep enough to mine for years. 100% practical.”

Jennifer Morey: Student, Longmont, CO

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

CSCS (NSCA), Current NAKF National Champion

“The RKC was one of the most physically demanding weekends I’ve ever had in my life. It was brutal yet rewarding. There’s no comparison and never will be. The quality was of the highest level possible. Pavel and the RKCs are the cream of the crop when it comes to training. Their broad areas of expertise gave the students a plethora of knowledge to draw from.

KB training basically replaces all if not supplements all other training possibilities. The quality, scope and practicality of all the exercises can relate to any other physical activity imagined. Especially the fact that most exercises are full body, this surpassed other training exercise done with free weights for example. Not all types of physical activity correlate with most others the way that KBs do.”

Mike Ottaway: Military/USAF, Cheyenne, WY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

CQB/SWAT-Style Tactics, Rappelling, Climbing. Army Special Reaction Team certified, currently serving in an air base defense/resource protection role.

“Far exceeds anything I have ever attended on physical fitness.”

Sage Petersen, Student (College), Durango, CO

“I experienced the martial art/Tai Chi of weight lifting. I learned to use my body better, in which it appeared that I’d gained strength or mobility in lighting time.”

Terry Plochocik House Cleaning Business, Birchwood Village, MN

“Most educational & inspiring experience I’ve been through. I felt very privileged and honored to be in this training course. Very educational and most inspiring experience to be able to perform and learn techniques from such super, intelligent and experienced instructors. Kettelbells and John DuCane’s qigong classes have changed my life in such a big way. I am much stronger and healthier, physically and spiritually.”

K C Reiter: Fitness Trainer, Chico, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Former Recon Marine, Security Contractor.
Currently: Track Coach, ISSA certified Fitness Trainer, ISSA certified Specialist Nutrition

“Quality instructors, useable information, good people. By far the most usable hands on instruction I have had.”

David Rice: Health Club Manager, Tonawanda, NY

“There was nothing in this course that did not prove itself to be of extreme value. It not only gives you a better understanding of the principle tool involved, but more importantly teaches you how to reach the body’s maximum potential in all forms of fitness.

The senior instructors were nothing short of amazing. No time was wasted. Everything had a purpose even if we didn’t notice at the time. I also found all the instructors to be a wealth of knowledge and never felt as if they were reluctant or bothered to share it.”

Juan Rolon, Personal Trainer, Long Beach, NY

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Spin Instructor, Nasm Personal Trainer Cert
IMX Pilates Certified

“The RKC cert has shown me my potential for strength and power. I will be able to take the skills I have learned and help my client get strong as well.”

Jessica Rucker: Personal Trainer/instructor For The Monkey Bar Gymnasium, Madison WI

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Jr. high school track star and CNT certified.

“It was a wonderful experience. One that I will always remember. All of the instructors were well experienced and open. The quality was superb, the information will be referenced to over and over and practical use, priceless.

I’ve never experienced a more organized and thought out course as this one. This course should be a template for all. The timing of everything was perfect. What was said to be done, was done. Excellent!”

BJ Rule: Trainer, London

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

BSC Exercise Science, CSCS. Played rugby league at club and state level during high school, semi pro after.

“The RKC is a thorough induction into the school of strength. It is tough and challenging yet always thought provoking and educational. I thought it was fantastic! It has left me with tools I can take to work tomorrow. Not only has my mind developed, my body has learnt a hell of a lot as well.

Pavel was brilliant! His knowledge and ability to identify and correct a person’s deficiencies was excellent. Brett Jones was informative and direct. Fantastic instructor as the point was always brought home. Steve Maxwell’s wealth of knowledge and “in the know” info was great. Jeff Martone delivered in a very relaxed and humble manner. Mike Mahler appears to be professionalism personified.”

Jonathan Schultheis: Teacher/Pastor/Coach, Keansburg, NJ

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

HS and college football, weight training since 8th grade.

“An intensive course, which will move you along toward KB mastery more quickly than any experience on earth! It is simultaneously humbling, exhilarating, challenging and rewarding. Quality was phenomenal! This was an amazing experience.”

Tim Schmidt: Manager for Personal Training at Gold’s Gym, Salt Lake City, UT

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

HS pushup record, state champion swimmer/water polo player, and trained with navy seals in summers between HS.

“Covering the basics very thoroughly, I improved my technique and knowledge of kettlebells immensely. The amount of knowledge possessed was very good and even surpassed my expectations. The training ran smoothly, and all my questions were answered. RKC has definitely surpassed any and all training I have taken or heard of.”

Amber Shada: Student, Madison, WI

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Employee at Monkey Bars

“It was an amazing weekend! The instructors were top-notch, the participants were excited to be here, and I learned a tremendous amount about strength and conditioning with KBs. Instructors were knowledgeable and helpful while staying positive. They were able to demonstrate their knowledge of KBs and were extremely proficient at helping us pick up proper technique. There was very little time wasted during the day, everyone kept us moving learning.

Quality was excellent, material was well-organized. I enjoyed the troubleshooting work. The depth of material as excellent.. It has been a great, memorable learning experience, and has really gotten me excited about KB work.”

Brandi Sharpe: Personal Trainer, La Jolla, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

PG Triathlon, Wildflower Triathlon, 2001. MASM, AFPA, NAHF, APEX Fit Pro, APEX Nutrition Counselor, Bosu Certified.

“Very challenging; mental and physical, certification. I learned and performed much more than I expected. Pavel is amazing! Andrea is very tough – I really appreciated her strictness with me. She taught me so much. All of the instructors were awesome. Great balance between them all and their individual styles. The quality was better than ever expected. From the lectures to the work-outs, nothing I have ever taken before has even been close.”

Yoana Snideman: Business Owner, Revolution Fitness, La Jolla, CA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Karate, Gymnastics, Triathlon, Physical Therapist

“RKC training is a “serious”, powerful, amazing, professional fitness certification.”

TR Smart: Police Officer, 2003, Dayton, OH

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Cooper Institute Physical Fitness Instructor,
Certified Firearms Instructor, certified Defensive Tactics Instructor, certified Simulation Instructor, IPMBA certified Police Mountain Bike Patrol Instructor
Tactical Team Leader on Special Response Team.

“The most satisfying, detailed, and effectively grueling, training I‘ve ever had. When finished, you feel like you earned it whether you were here as a participant or to become an RKC or get your re-certification. A tremendous experience. The quality of the training is the highest level. The knowledge provided was immense and merely a reflection of the instructors’ vast knowledge and experience.

There is nothing better. In 2002 I went to the Cooper Institute of Aerobics (yuk!) and became a “certified fitness specialist”. That training was a week long – mostly classroom, and did not even scratch the surface of what this program provides.”

Joe Sparks: Massage Theapist, Perrysburg. OH

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Yoga Teacher – 7 Years, Pose Method running coach – 4 years, Age Group Triathlete rank 5th Midwest 45-49, 2004.

“It was a great way to challenge myself on all levels. I am a better man for taking the training. Everyone was very knowledgeable. Easy to understand and follow. Lot’s of new information. Easy access to the teachers and assistants.”

Kim Springer: Personal Trainer, Las Vegas, NV

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

BS Health Education, ACE, NASM, ACSM, Certified Personal Trainer.

“Awesome. As are kettlebells, the RKC program is well worth the money. I have been to IDEA, ACSM, NASM (original 3 day course) and numerous other workshops. RKC surpasses all of them.”

Gary Todd: VP, Cellxion, And LLC – Manufacturing Company, PT Martial Arts Instructor – Eagle Claw Kung Fu, Bossier City, LA

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

1975, began training in martial arts in chinese style of My Jong Horn with Johnnie-Kwong Ming Lee. Trained in this style for 13 years. 1983, attained rating in the top 50 form competitors in the U.S. under the old Inside Karate magazine Fabag system. 1995, sought out and found Eagle Claw Kung Fu master – Gini Lau. Have trained in Eagle Claw since then and hold an instructor’s rank in both styes. Last year, I accompanied my sifu (teacher) to Zhengshou, China for the 1st traditional Would Wushu festival. I competed in the seniors division in forms and earned 2 silver medals with nearly 40 competitors.

“This is a truly first rate experience in which the individual, his instruction, his retention of material and his technique are the number 1 priority. Cannot say enough, Pavel’s instruction is clear, concise and right on the mark. All senior instructor and assistants that I experienced were well versed personable and helpful. Excellent. I have done many martial arts seminars. This information was presented with enthusiasm, tough love and in a clear progressive manner Top class first-rate event. Attention given to the individuals. All instructors are sincere and genuinely want to help. A+”

Robert White: Mechanical Designer, Washington, DC

“This has been a very rewarding and challenging experience. The quality of the training was exceptional all the instructors were very professional.”

Jason Wilterdink: Police Officer- Tactics Instructor, Manitowc, WI

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Performed in International UN Police Mission/ Firearms Instructor/Tactics and Defense Instructor, SPEAR, PDR Instructor

“There is no substitute for face-to-face instruction. I as working out 5-6 months from videos. Face to face instruction refined, corrected, and saved many minor techniques issues, which make a big difference. This is the most demanding physical course I have ever been in.”