July 2005 Unlock Workshop — Participant Praise

Cain Carroll, Writer, Yoga Instructor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Yoga Instructor; 10 years yoga/meditation training in India, Nepal, Thailand, S. America, and USA; Have led yoga trainings and certification programs in over 10 countries; author of the internationally acclaimed book “Partner Yoga”; 6 years training in judo and wrestling, 5 years training in Qi Gong, with masters from Thailand, China & Tibet.

“The Unlock course is a must for anyone wanting to significantly increase their functional range of motion and flexibility. Drives home the universal laws of human movement. I leave inspired and full of new ideas to explore.

The blend of different approaches (of the 3 instructors) which stem from the same foundational principles gave the course a diverse depth which was easy to understand and apply.

It is a joy and an honor to train with you three extraordinary men. Hats off! I am often let down and unimpressed by instructors’ knowledge of the universal principles of alignment and understanding of functional whole body movement. This was not the case with Unlock! The course was straight to the point and dead on with correct alignment and application of movements and positions. Refreshing!”

Luc Readinger, Physician

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

RKC, Martial Arts

“It was two days of learning and integrating disciplines taught by three excellent instructors that made me stronger, more flexible, more mobile, and more energized.

Top notch as always. Broad scope of material – more was offered than I’ll be able to take home. In terms of practicality I’ll be integrating some of the stuff I learned immediately into my training.”

Mark Bennett, teacher (ESL) was Personal Fitness Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

U.S. Marine Corps, played baseball in college, studied Hsing-I, Kung Fu and Splashing Hands

“I have never had a course like this. I really enjoyed the instructors, the camaraderie – simply put, it was worth it.”

Steve Freides, College Music Professor, Computer Consultant

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

AAU Powerflifting: 2004 (Current) World Champion, Deadlift, M45-59, 67.5kg, Drug-free division. RKC, 2003. NSCA Certified Personal Trainer. YMCA Lifeguard and Lifeguard Training Instructor. 2 years study WTF Tae kwon do.

“It was excellent, caring, detailed, easy to follow instruction from 3 different people using 3 different styles but with the common goal of helping the participants unlock their bodies. All 3 are clearly master teachers of their respective disciplines.”

Doc Kelly, Chiropractic Physician

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Black Belt (1st degree) Tae Kwon Do, Ji Do Kwan. Trainer for elite, amateur and professional athletes (all sports)

“Having worked with the best as a trainer, it was a terrific experience to find the depth of anatomical knowledge and the accuracy of the proven methods of these three masters. They totally support and complement each other with their knowledge expertise, and professionalism.

Intense, Covered everything, every joint, useful immediately personally and professionally with patients.”

Lance Allen, Licensed Acupuncturist

“Wow! I finally found the missing pieces to unrestricted movement and the ability to achieve pain free range of motion. The quality of training and knowledge provided by Pavel, Steve and John is the highest caliber I have ever experienced from any instructors in any field I have studied. I have and will continue to recommend all three to family, friends and patients.

If I only use 30% of what I learned it will increase my physical performance 200%.”

Jay Armstrong, Manager – KB Instructor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

WTF Master Tae Kwon Do Instructor, RKC Instructor

“After more than 20 years studying flexibility with Tae Kwon Do I learned new techniques that quickly and safely improved my range of motion. The Unlock seminar is jam packed with flexibility and mobility jewels that will improve physical performance in any activity.

Several of the Qigong routine will be implemented as strength and flexibility drills in my classes. Steve Maxwell’s drills are pure genius. Pavel is the master of communicating the essence of the principles of flexibility.

These are three of the most amazing instructors and fitness professionals that ANYONE is likely to ever meet.

This course was physically demanding. It was almost as difficult as RKC but in a different way. Leaning new drills forces the body/mind linkage to exert itself maximally.”

Jennifer Boyd, Dance Instructor (Ballet/Jazz)

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Ballet Training since age 5 – dancing my entire life. Performed w/ St. Paul City Ballet and completed professionally with a partner in Cabaret dancing.

“It was great! I really liked how each part of the seminar was intertwined – you could see the relationship with the 3 techniques – focused on all aspects – flexibility, strength, movement.

ALL of Pavel’s principles are extremely useful for myself and will be fore all of my students!

I felt each Instructor did an outstanding job on getting the information to us! John was very thorough in his descriptions and visuals of movements – along with the written analysis. Everyone was very interactive with all of us – very “hands on” which I feel is very important to learn all of the different movements. All of the instructors were extremely knowledgeable and know how to get that information across in an understandable manner – in other words not all “experts/masters” make great teachers, and I felt all 3 instructors were great teachers.

I haven’t been to a great deal of physical exercise courses – mostly I’ve been to dance seminars for teachers. I felt this weekend was very well organized – there was a great deal of material. But not too much – not overwhelming – the amount of practical use 100% - everything I’ve learned here I feel has some sort of practical use in my life!

Thank you for a great experience! I’ve learned a tremendous amount from each of you – that I will definitely continue to use.”

Nisha Manek, Physician, Mayo Clinic

“Excellent, empowering seminar. Fun, educational, and jump-started my fitness. Quality: good and exceptional = all 3. Knowledge: Excellent all three.”

Brian King, Dentist

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Dental Surgeon in the Air National Gaud, 128th ARQ; 6 marathons; and weightlifter for >25 years; general interests include Martial Arts, basketball, Increasing Knowledge in KB training.

“One of the best experiences I have had individually and with my daughter. Far beyond what I expected.”

Pamela MacElree, Systems Analyst/Photographer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

RKC

“I always know that just because you were flexible didn’t mean you were strong but I learned the major differences between mobility and flexibility, as well as importance of having them both to support strength.

Unlock was very eye opening. Prior to the seminar I felt I was fairly flexible and had decent mobility, Unlock helped me realize that some parts of me were more or less flexible/mobile. Now I know where I need to focus and where I need to maintain.

I found the more advanced mobility movements to be very beneficial, seeing Steve Maxwell twist himself around was amazing, as well as a very strong motivator. The principles applied by Pavel with stretching related strongly back to the RKC but in some aspects was applied differently showing that one theory can improve multiple actions/drills.

The knowledge from Pavel, Steve, and John that was received this weekend was outstanding/ beyond their practical knowledge their physical attributes and skill are enough to motivate any individual of any age from any background who is willing to improve themselves.

The practical use was great. I think that some of the principles applied here would help some individuals with their RKC certification.

I will be able to apply much of what I learned here toward my current training which will in turn enhance my performance, thank you.”

David Matthews, MD Craniofacial Surgeon

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

MD Recon. USMC, College Hockey, Rugby – team rugby. Level 3 power program trainer, instructor in power program camp.

“An excellent mix of old and new tried and proven techniques, with good physiologic explanation and demonstration of stretch reflex, relaxation techniques. Instructors all are excellent master teachers — this enables true excellent progress made.”

Joshua Hillis, Personal Trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

In high school ran a 4:16 mile and 9:22 two mile. RKC, RKC CAS, Crossfit Level 2, NASM CPT, APEX CPT, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu White Belt, Krav Maga Level 2

“For me Unlock! was an introduction to Qigong, the most advanced joint mobility routine I have ever seen. And finally understanding and applying the flexibility tools I’d read about in Relax into Stretch plus learning a few more flexibility tools.

The level of training and material presented at this course is the best I have ever seen. Near as I can tell you there is nothing else like this anywhere. Absolutely amazing. And this is coming from someone who’s already read and watched all of Steve Maxwell and Pavel Tsatsouline’s books and DVDs – this course gave me so many more tools and so much better understanding of how the tools work.

Outside of the RKC, there is nothing else that is this hands-on, has this much application and is this amazing in terms of new information.”

Yannis Pantzalis, University Professor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Played soccer in high school and college; active sports: Tennis, Swimming, Martial Arts (systema, kendo, aikido)

“A great learning experience. It is a very empowering workshop because it explains why something works, plus the teaching skills of all 3 instructors were awesome (I think I am qualified to judge them since I am in the teaching profession.)

I liked that everything was based on learning principles first and techniques second – this way you can improvise and explore new ways to train.

All 3 instructors are top experts. The scope and depth of their knowledge is amazing. Although each instructor has his personal teaching style, all 3 were very effective because they showed respect and concern for all participants”

Jon Engum, Tae Kwon Do Instructor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

6th degree black belt in tae kwon do - silver medalist nationals – sparring – currently national level coach; RKC

“I have never experienced qigong before it helped to loosen and relax my muscles I have been doing mobility drills regularly but now I have a whole new set of tools to play with.

It was super. A very dynamic experience. The tag team between Pavel, John, and Steve left no tightness in my body whatsoever. Great job. The quality and knowledge was superb. You guys are very professional and I will use your example in my own profession.

Hands down Dragon Door Seminars are the best – great explanations coupled with hands on experience.”

Ammon Barron, Truck Driver

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

RKC, shorin ryu karate do

“Excellent complement to RKC training. Best stretching experience of my life! Best of its kind, master instructors. They will help you find your own path to self-mastery. It is a great honor and privilege to be able to attend and be trained by such world-class professionals. Workshop was far above and beyond my expectations.”

Dave Kelley, Aircraft Mechanic

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

US Army Reserve

“Best course for anyone who wants to make their own fitness routine more enjoyable and very productive.

Instructors were very dedicated with knowledge unknown to most. Willing to take the time to get the most important facts and training methods taught to you, no matter what your level of expertise is. As a group of instructors… the best you will find anywhere.

Far above anything I’ve ever experienced. Removed 20 years of BAD examples you will see in your local gym.

Many gym and locker room myths and mistakes exposed and dealt with. After many years of terrible examples by U.S. Active Duty Physical and Reserve Programs… this course was incredible!”

Harvey Berman, Martial Arts Instructor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – Muay Thai – A.F.S. Karate

“The course reintroduces yourself to your own body. The techniques enable you to get beyond your plateaus and sticking points.

The instructors were obvious Masters of their trade. Their different approaches made the experience interesting and challenging. I was very impressed by the willingness of each instructor in dealing with questions during and after the seminar.

All past seminars I have attended have been sport specific i.e. BJJ, Muay Thai… This is the first I have seen one which has a universal application to all sports, health and general well being.”

Michelle Kilikauskas, Mathematician

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

1999 and 2000 APFUS Masters National Powerlifting Championships, 2000 WPC Masters World Powerlfiting Championship, RKC

The course encouraged me that it is entirely within my grasp to increase my mobility and flexibility as I get older rather than lose it (I’m 47) it also convinced me that the real barriers are self imposed.

Pavel, Steve, and John are all extremely gifted teachers. They have a vast treasure of knowledge and experience, and they are exceptionally skilled at transmitting that knowledge to others.

Extremely practical – a great complement to RKC training.”

Paul Wen Jones, Medical Equipment Sales Rep

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Wrestling – Jr. High, High School, College Rugby – 10 years USMC – 5 years, USMC Martial Arts Program, Kung-Fu – 1 years Some boxing, RKC certified

“Outstanding course on conditioning your body, increasing the mobility of your muscles and joints and how to incorporate that into you r everyday training.

The highest level of training and knowledge was demonstrated by all 3 instructors. They are also able to transfer this knowledge to the students.”

Tom Murphy, Software Developer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Former Golf Pro; Yang Style Forms Practice 1 year

“I am excited about the possibility of using the body in the way it was designed to be used.”

Brandon Fisher, Fisherman

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Black Belt (1st degree) Tae Kwon Do, trainer for elite, amateur and professional athletes (all sports)

“Finally a great deal of the whole package! Explained simply! I just have to unwrap and open the package! A great enormous experience I will never forget. Results! Instantly.”

Brent Johnson, Software Developer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Dance classes, mostly ballet and modern

“While the principles and techniques presented were demonstrably effective, the most important ‘unlocking’ I experience had to do with my own sense of limitation. The limits are clearly further than I had believed possible.”

Deb Brooks, Computer Consultant

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Some Strength training

“This course was jam-packed full of information and examples and hands-on experience. It was unlike any other course taken.”

Annice King, Student

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Swimmer – High School Swim Team; Minor interests in weightlifting and Martial Arts

“I was amazed on how much you guys helped these people including myself to bend these ways and move the way we couldn’t before. You guys did a great job and inspire a lot of people.”

Peter Nasset, Residential Remodeling Contractor

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

I have been training with kettlebell the past 18 months

“The workshop, while quite intense physically, is actually an exercise in what is possible with the human body.

The quality of training by all here is excellent. Each showed great breadth of knowledge. Steve’s demonstration of forced mobility techniques was a definite plus.

Far greater in scope than anything I have encountered. For a 57 year old strength athlete the practical uses of joint mobility/flexibility are extremely important.”

Mark Creel, Sales – Maritime Safety Equipment

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

7 years Marine Corp reserves – Gulf War Veteran. Had to take 12 years off (any exercise) because of constant shoulder and back pain. 14 weeks ago I tried kettlebell training and swings cured most of the pain. I can bent press too. It’s amazing.

“Crammed with useful info for joint health (flexibility, mobility, energy work). I recommend it without reserve.”

Lawrence Birzer, Retired

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

HS football, basketball, baseball, track and field; US Navy – football, basketball, baseball; Master in Sports Science – U.S. Sports Acadmey, Daphne, AL ’89; U.S. Navy – 30 years and retired HS Guidance Counselor

“The understanding followed by the actual doing gave me confidence to perform the various techniques without any lingering fear of doing harm.

We are often told to do certain techniques to do this, that and the other; but without much explanation of the process. Unlock! provided the rationale.

The instructors all seem to practice what they preach as a “lifestyle” which lends credibility to the concepts they teach.

The material and concepts are well researched and studied as indicated by what they site as reference points during their presentation. This also keeps things from getting too dry or redundant. I was particularly impressed with Mr. Maxwell’s “down to earth” approach and attitude. John DuCane has done the research and study to distill the essence of a somewhat vague practice, so I don’t have to go out and read a hundred books on the subject. Pavel, among all his talents and achievements never the less finds time and attitude to encourage the lesser of us in the fitness field.”

Erich Bumgardner, Consultant

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Warrior Diet CFT Training Level 1; Business professional looking for personal improvement

“It is always such a pleasure to work with very talented and motivated instructors. Their motivation and enthusiasm is contagious.

Thanks to Steve for so many practical joint mobility exercises for me to take back home. Not only did the movement in these drills help the joints, which were a little stiff, but they were also a lot of fun for the mind. When it’s fun, I am more likely to do it consistently! The combination of the coordinated movement and the joint stretching is an incredibly synergistic.

What I liked about Pavel is his focus on the fundamentals. He is able to explain he same principle multiple different ways. So I am able to perform and to improve on many of the techniques quickly. And the ones I don’t get, he is very open to questions.

I will be thankful to John every time I can get that calm feeling as a result of the Qigong techniques. Especially I like the warm vibrating energy feeling.”

Perry Brown II, Loss Prevention Manager

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Chinese Martial Arts; (a little) Filipino Martial Arts

“Mobility and flexibility at its best, these is nothing out there that could compare to the “Unlock Course”. For balanced, unrestricted movement, take this course or remain “locked-up” forever! It could not get any better.”

Barbara McDuffie, Corporate trainer

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

Certified Mat Pilates Instructor.

“These guys are top notch. It was an amazing experience to work with such dedicated and knowledgeable people – Steve, John, Pavel – you are an inspiration. Outstanding – highly recommend taking any training offered by any of you. Thanks!

I loved this training and it is unlike most training. It is great to really focus on stretching and apply it to strengthening.”

Derek Rush, Carpenter by day, Musician by night

Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:

I am just really starting to get into fitness training. I took 2 kettlebell classes with Dave Randolph which gave me more than I could of ever imagined with the kettlebells.

“After taking the Unlock Course I am now more assured of myself that when I workout I will not injure myself. This course taught me how to do things safely.

All these guys I consider the most knowledgeable in their field. They all know what they’re talking about. The best thing is that they explain everything in a way that you can actually understand.

It was the best. I plan on attending many more of these to come.”