Participant Praise for the RKC Certification Workshop September 2011, Chicago, IL
Matt Hoff, Columbus GA, US Army Ranger
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, West Point Class of 2007, Deployed to OIF 9, Scout Platoon Leader in the 82nd Airborne Division Ranger Instructor,, Ranger, Reconnaissance and Surveillance Leader's Course, Airborne, Air Assault, Combatives.
The hardest part of the weekend was changing my mind set from go-fast to do it perfectly. I am definitely used to muscling through everything as fast as I can with violence of action instead of technique. Oddly, this was the easiest the snatch test has ever been for me and I PR’d my press. I always know that technique is there for a reason, but it’s interesting to see performance happen as a happy aside to seeking technique perfection. It’s something I will bring back to both the gym and to Ranger School.
Unparalleled. I’ve done four other kettlebell certifications and numerous other fitness certifications. The RKC had an amazing teacher to student ration and all of the instructors were on the same sheet of music. I would go out of my way and pay to train with Mark, Kate and Gus again. There was never a point where a candidate had an issue with a movement or a technical question where the instructor or assistants struggle with the answer or had anything less than a complete mastery of the subject.
Easily the most rigorous in terms of testing and expectations. The quality and organization was top notch. It covered about the same scope of material, but in much more depth and much greater emphasis on movement and movement quality. Where as most courses focus on safe and effective movement completion, the RKC focuses on movement perfection.
Jen Sinkler, St. Paul MN, Senior Fitness Editor, Experience Life Magazine
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
USA Women's National Team Rugby Player 2002-2009, USA Weightlifting Senior Coach, LIFT Ultimate Sandbag Cert, CrossFit L1
I just got a whoooole lot better at learning the technique and nuances of kettlebell exercise.
- The attention to detail was spectacular – I appreciate the instructors’ willingness to break things down.
- I already adore the community
- The marketing presentation was a surprise and delight - I wasn’t sure how much take away I’d get from that considering my editorial background, but it was great.
Clearly all of the team leaders were experienced, passionate people who invest so much time and energy into teaching people what they know. Pavel was so charismatic that it was always a delight to watch him present.
I enjoyed myself immensely and learned so much.
Mira Kwon, Portland, OR, Training Network Manager, Nike
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
USAW certified, competitive Olympic style weightlifter.
I nervously signed up to take the RKC to prove to myself I was strong enough, mentally and physically to complete the certification. What I discovered is I had untapped courage and courage for my fellow teammates which has made me feel more empowered than ever.
Quality of training was excellent! What I appreciate the most is the consistency of instruction material. No matter who I had I, I would get a consistent answer.
RKC was by far the most thorough, the quality as on par with what I have experienced. Practical use was great and exactly was needed.
Hugh Davis, Fort Smith, AR, Instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
USMC Force Recon-4 years, Arkansas State Police-Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Training, Dept of Energy-Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kettlebell PT program.
The experience is life-changing and eye-opening to fitness and discipline. My strength was not to what it needs to be and this has taught me how to fix it as well as spread the knowledge to others.
Professionalism was phenomenal. The specificity of techniques and the ease of addressing it was amazing. A sense of accomplishment was established each hour and day! Absolutely amazed at how little I did know.
Kettlebell training is more conducive to training anywhere, anytime. The exercises, although technical, once mastered, are the best fitness tool in my experience. As a Recon Marine, State Police Officer and Instructor for Federal Agents there is a reason here why special forces trains with kettlebells.
Kim G Odykirk, Grand Rapids, MI, Personal Trainer, Body Worker, Musician (singer), Life Student
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Tai Chi practice 20+ years, Professional Certifications: (to name a few) NSCA, NASM, Licensed Massage Therapist, Neuromuscular Therapy, Orthopedic Massage, Myoskeletal Alignment
Took theory (books, DVDs) to the next level with specific coaching.
The RKC training is head and shoulders above any other training I have experienced. I have been in the industry for 20 years, have attended and acquired many other certifications, and the level and professionalism of this training program is the vehicle through which I will take myself to acquire the next level of education and professionalism.
This training program (RKC) is the most professional I have experienced in my years of attending training programs and at this time I do not have any additional comments of additional changes and additions.
What connected and reached out/resonated with me deeply is RKC’s value system and code of conduct. Also that the RKC is a school of strength, and I am a life-long student.
Thank you Pavel, Thank you John for being authentic, and great leaders in the field of Health, Professionalism, Education, Happiness and Prosperity.
Al Rymniak, Mercer PA, Sales
One of the best experience of my life. I learned more about myself than any other civilian training I have paid to attend!
I improved all kettlebell skills 1,000%. I am convinced RKC is a way of life! I am 53 years old!
This is my first civilian physical training course. Compared to the USMC (Marines) I would put this on par as far as physical training and method.
John Koeshall, Lindale, TX, Consultant
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Kempo Black Belt, JKD/Kali Full Instructor
Coming into this weekend injured, I had a bit of trepidation as to how I would be received. From the moment I met my TL and Asst. to the end I felt comfortable, challenged, and apart of the group. This was an exceptional training opportunity as well as a fantastically fun and challenging event.
I was very impressed with each instructor I had the privilege of interacting with. To say this is a “Harvard of Physical Instruction” is not an exaggeration. It is an honor and a privilege to be trained by them.
I have been actively training as a participant and trainer in various subjects for the past 25 years. While there have been great courses, NONE of them surpassed this course. I was very impressed with each evolution and aspect of the material, implementation, design and logistics of the program. Bravo.
Cory Felderman, Rochester, MN, Civil Engineer Technician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
2010 Ironman – Wisconsin Finisher, 7 time marathoner with a 3:04 PR.
1 year ago today I competed in the Ironman Triathlon in Madison, WI. This weekend was more challenging than that event which covered 140.6 miles. The best part is that I have more tools and desire to compete and strive for greatness after this weekend than after Ironman.
The quality of training received was absolutely excellent. Everyone was very knowledgeable and great at explaining this knowledge so that it makes sense.
It was by far the toughest, most challenging experience of my life. The material is something I can use forever in all aspects of competitive triathlon racing and working as a surveyor.
David Shallcross, Greenville, SC, Medical Doctor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Multiple high school sports. US Army Special Forces 1972-75, Full time practicing MD in field of rehabilitation-musculoskeletal/neuromuscular injury- interested in fitness in mature athletes.
Comprehensive introduction to basics of mobility, flexibility, strengthening and endurance skills and the people who have studied these basics and know how to teach them.
Excellent staff, friendly, available, knowledgeable humble. Very professional.
James Richmond, Pinehurst, NC, Registered Nurse
Greatly exceeded my expectations. The RKC system is the Gold Standard! In a short period of time, you as a student, learn an easy, yet complex system on how to teach kettlebells training! I cannot say enough about the high quality of instruction. If you can only take one physical exercise training class, you should attend the RKC.
The quality was excellent. Every one of the leaders was knowledgeable and eager to help. They broke down the content to a “micro” scale, which in turn, made it easier to understand and practice. As a student, it was easy to see that each RKC training staff knew their content and did show you/educate you without ego.
Rachel Held, New York, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Certified through the National Council on Strength and Fitness, In-House Equinox Kettlebell Level 1 & 2 Certified Pre and Post-Natal Certified
Attending the RKC is both grueling and very rewarding. The three days are long and brutal, but you are completing everything with the guidance and experience of amazing Sr. RKCs and assistants. Preparing for the RKC is a must and it is the ultimate reward to pass the course through personal preparation and the aide o the RKCs leaders and staff.
Pavel was very patient with every potential RKC that came up to the stage. He gave the most effect cues that enables the individual to execute the movement efficiently with I a short period of time.
My leaders Dr. Mark Cheng was extremely helpful. He has a perfect eye to pick out even the smallest imperfections, correct it and make the movement better. He is very patient, concise and clear. He also never hesitated to compliment or congratulate us on things we were doing well.
The RKC was the most challenging physically and mentally compared to other types of training I’ve done.
Lauren Perreault, Boston, MA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NASM CPT, FMS, Precision Nutrition Level 1
I came to the RKC confident in my skills. I am leaving the RKC humbled by the amount of information. it is 100% unique that after hours of rigorous exercise while learning and make corrections, my form and technique on day 3 (while sore, tired and bruised) was incredibly improved!
Every time Pavel spoke he commanded my attention without even trying. His presence alone made me want to listen and absorb information like never before. When he would trouble shoot the skills and take someone with very sloppy technique and make them perfect the movement it was immediate proof that his methods work. My group leader was Karen Smith and she was fantastic. She exhibited great knowledge and skill and really made me wan to work hard, improve and impress her. My assistants Scott and Gary were also great.
There is no comparison. I have never learned this much and more importantly retained this much information in one course. I feel that I’m leaving with so much confidence not only in my own physical skills but also in my ability to safely and effectively teach someone how to train with kettlebells.
Daniel Villela Runkel de Sousa, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Environmental Engineer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
2nd Degree Lakan Guro(Teacher) in Kali Silat Sinatirsiawalli and Instructor of Kombato (Brazillian system of defensive tactics).
A humbling weekend that reset my personal limits and stretched the boundaries of my goals. One of my top moments in life, so for.
Top quality training, equaled by none. Tips and lessons were straight to the point and backed by good, hardcore implementation.
Mike Apple, Stigler, OK, D.O.E. Instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Dept. of Energy Tactics, P.T. instructor, IUF instructor, Firearms and CQB instructor. Train in BJJ
Great experience. I had a general knowledge of kettlebell training before arriving, but this training was exceptional. Learned a lot about the small things about the tech. also awesome progression points. Def be able to use everything in my line of work. Also being able to set a new PR in the 5 min snatch test on the last of training. Show the small subtle things that you learn, especially after two days of learning and workouts.
The expertise and knowledge was awesome.
Mark Toomey as an excellent team leader. He provided helpful tips, kept it fun, and pushed us at the same time.
Gus Peterson as awesome. He helped keep us motivated gave great instruction and told the some tech and tips as Mark Toomey.
Kate was very helpful. She helped clean up a lot of problems with tech. kept us motivated and also told the same material as Mark and Gus.
I thought it was very helpful and professional that the TL and the assistants all taught the same material.
MINERVA WOLFE, Urbana, IL, Fitness trainer, private investor, supervisor/home health care agency.
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HCK kettlebell certification (2010). 2 years of intense traditional West African dance. 20 years training in: running, swimming, yoga, & dance. President of Nutrition & Health Research, Inc. As President, I developed nutrition programs concentrating in preventive medicine: vitamins, minerals, foods, diet, & exercise.
In my personal opinion and experience it is the best physical training system to achieve overall strength, cardiovascular, endurance and flexibility all at the same time. The RKC Instructors delivered on every promise and more! I found it to be honest. The integrity of the RKC system is clear.
I love it. Class A training, good organization.
Josh Brunner, Indianapolis, IN, General Contractor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
10 years of Powerlifting experience specializing in dead lifting. 12 years traditional Korean Tae Kwon Do experience.
This course provided me with the fundamentals and understanding of what kettlebell training is. It also provided me with the knowledge of what it can “Really” do for you, if you let it.
The instruction was the most in depth I’ve ever had. The instructors were all wonderful and extremely educational. The interaction between the instructors and students was outstanding.
Hands down, the RKC was the most educational instruction that I’ve ever been given.
Angela Wigginton-Lyngso, Burr Ridge, IL, Pre School Teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
High School Soccer
This experience was beyond my imagination in many ways. Being given the opportunity to learn and work with the masters and seniors of this art was so gratifying, valuable, and worth every penny
Pavel truly is an individual who strives to master his craft and it is apparent through his unbelievable knowledge of kbs. He takes care of his students, leaders, and assistants and wants everyone to succeed and be proud of the work they did. He not only stresses the importance of knowing kbs on an individuals level, but how the knowledge will play a vital role when working with a client. He is a great motivator and inspiration to take this school further.
All the team leaders, seniors, masters, etc. really were here to teach us to the best of their ability and assisted us in being the best we could be.
Jeff Ehrike, Oshkosh WI, Gym Owner/Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Multi All-Conference Highschool (Football, Baseball, Basketball), All-American Collegiate Athlete DIII (Track & Field), Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS - NSCA), Power Plate Certified
The RKC training is incredibly beneficial however very difficult. However, the difficulty is what makes it rewarding once you’ve completed it. Nothing great ever comes easy. The tools and unmatched direction are given to us as applications, however it’s up to us as to what we do with it. The progression we were taken through was very well thought out and strategic. Everything I expected.
I could not have been happier with the group I was in. Geoff, Joe, and Rob were a great combination. They were very clear on their high expectations, however verbalized it in a very likeable manner that kept everything enjoyable. HARD Yes!
The only other thing I can compare physically to this was when I completed in college football two-a-days and “hell week” of Track and Field were very grueling also. However, the knowledge learned in the past few days can’t be compared to any of those things.
Ian Holmes, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Performance Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
5 years aerial acrobat, 8 years national gymnastics training, Worlds ice/mixed climbing competitor, 3 years power lifting, 10 years training clients, YMCA FIT cert., Crossfit level 1 cert, (Precision Nutrition Coach
I felt that this was one of the best taught courses I have attended. Pavel and Geoff Neupert have been able to diagnose and help me solve issues that have limited me for close to five years.
Pam Dolby, Chicago IL, advertising sales
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
randomly passionate athlete. In the past I have completed an Ironman (Germany 1996), done numerous running races, biked regularly-completed centuries, golf, kayak, horse back riding, but the one consistent throughout all of my passions has been weight training. I started in the gym at the age of 28 and 28 years later...I'm still there. I have trained in weight lifting, including power lifting and olympic lifts, but nothing has worked as well or consistently as kettle bells which I have done for the past 2 years with RKC certified trainers.
Like drinking water out of a firehouse. So much great instruction and training in a short period of time.
Outstanding – great balance of humility, accessibility and deadly hard ass. You really feel a significant goal has been preached with (hopefully) graduation from this course.
Great job. I alternately hated and loved the experience (in a good way) the sense of accomplishment is overwhelming. Thank you.
Ryan Atkins, Berrien Springs, MI, Student
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Martial Arts, currently studying Krav Maga, HKC, studying for ACE CPT
A really overwhelming flood of principles and consistent correctives that even you are learning them allows you to accomplish more than you ever thought possible. I have never been so exhausted yet completely happy and constantly energized. Being surrounded by people who have learned and accomplished so much and having them teach you… incredible.
Amazing. To meet, train with, and learn from the experts in the field, the authors of all the books is one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Even if I fail, I still walk away with the most amazing knowledge.
Mike Allard, Colorado Springs, CO, Instructor at Intellitec Medical Institute / Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
National Academy of Sports Medicine: Certified Personal Trainer and Sharecare Certified National Council on Strength and Fitness: Certified Personal Trainer USA Olympic Weightlifting: Level 1 Sport Performance Coach I am an instructor for the Personal Fitness Training program at Intellitec Medical Institute. I teach a multitude of classes from muscle physiology to sports nutrition. I am responsible for curriculum and course development, competency implementation and application of learned knowledge. I am versed in numerous martial arts. Most notably I am a first degree black belt in TaeKwonDo. I was recognized by BusinessWeek as one of the Top 25 Entrepreneurs Under the Age of 25 within the United States in 2008.
It was an absolutely amazing certification course in which I learned and applied knowledge in a tactful and respectable manner. I also am fortunate to have built lifelong relationships through the camaraderie of kettlebell training.
I sincerely believe that I received the best possible kettlebell instruction I could have. All of the instructors and leaders were sincerely interested in helping us improve our abilities and learn. I respect all of them to the utmost degree and hope to be one someday.
Tess Hunt, Yokine, Western Australia, Fitness Centre Manager and Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Black Belt Zen Do Kai 7 years, Black Singlet Muay Thai 7 years, Boxing 7 years, Currently training in Brazilain Jiu Jitsu 3 years.
Hard, challenging, emotional but best of all fun!!!
Amazing, amazing, amazing their knowledge, their way of communicating their knowledge is awe-inspiring. If I became half as good as them I will be thrilled.
Glenn McCracken, Fayetteville, AR, Graduate Student/Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I have been ACSM and AFAA certified. I am most proud of doing 9 straight minutes of 2h and h2h swings with the 24kg
Makes other programs pointless. The technique testing is more valuable and credible then written nuances.
I appreciate the punctually to the clock.
I will be a much better trainer after having taken this course. I was a pretty damn good one coming in but now I’m thinking that ignorance was bliss. The quality of information in such a short amount of time parallels the efficiency of the kettlebell. I cannot say enough about the quality of knowledge; thank you.
Malcolm “Shane” Rosario, Baton Rouge LA, Student/Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
10 years Military, NASM, CrossFit, TRX
Thankful for the opportunity to gain knowledge from real people, very real experts in the art of strength.
Blows other certs out of the water. It’s on its own playing field!
Debbie DeLuca, Columbus OH, Registered Nurse, Certified Personal Trainer, Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Registered Nurse, Certified Personal Trainer, Senior Fitness Instructor
The course is taught by the elite of the elite in the industry. The wealth of knowledge and the humility each instructor exhibited exemplifies the values and integrity Pavel holds each and every individual to.
Indescribable. Pavel, Andrea, Mark and Gus are four of the most humble people I have ever met. Their willingness to help in a very positive way was so helpful for me. After training for a few hours, changes in my form amazed me. Thank you for changing the lives of so very many comrades.
RKC genuinely is devoted to stand behind their code of conduct. This is the most comprehensive training course I have ever taken. I put it right up there with taking my nursing boards in terms of knowledge and body awareness.
James Wright, Billings, MT, Functional trainer, HKC Kettlebell Instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
AAU, Sambo, Greco-Roman, Collegiate Wrestler Regional Sambo Champ, 2nd place Greco-Roman Montana State finisher, 2nd and 3rd place AAU Montana State finisher, Bodybuilder: 10th place Las Vegas World Championships, 2 time Montana State Lightweight Champ, 1st place in Denver, Wyoming, and Idaho tournaments, B.S. in Exercise Physiology/Minor in Health Promotion, ACSM-HFI Certification in 2002, HKC in 2010
I have better learned to be firm with my instruction, but have patience and have fun. I have learned how and why my RKC training is so valuable. Integrity and precision of movements!
They were extremely knowledgeable and great example to follow. They have helped my to understand why I would want to pursue my quest for further RKC certifications and move up in the levels. They were real people! Phenomenal weekend!
Monique Swirbalus, Braintree, MA, Registered Nurse
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
MA Army Natl Guard 1989-1998, Amateur Boxer 1999-2003, RKC Certification 2004
Pavel Tsatsouline was exceptional in all aspects of the workshop especially the way he could troubleshoot. The drills perfected a student’s technique in seconds. Andrea Du Cane was extremely knowledgeable and very attentive to detail, very encouraging. Karen Smith, who was my Team Leader was very inspiring and not only is she exceptionally physically strong, she is a very strong leader. Gary Music, RKC assistant was phenomenal in his attention to detail and correction of drills.
Erin Warwick, Urbana, IL, NSCA CPT, Exercise Physiology student
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NSCA CPT
I came here thinking I was very prepared and competent with kettlebells. The only thing I really had going for me was my excellent physical condition. I had to re-learn all my techniques. I was mentally and physically exhausted, but at the same time I am leaving here stronger, tougher and more confident than I could have imagined.
Pavel was excellent very thorough and informative. I can’t stress enough how Geoff, Joe and Rob brought me from being incompetent to being able to do things correctly. They gave it their all to make sure I passed this course. I am very thankful from everyone’s careful evaluations and honest advise. I found ways to utilize all their comments. They fought for me to get through this and come out much stronger.
This was physically and mentally the most demanding weekend of my life. But every night when I left here worn and tired, I also felt more alive and more confident. Each day I was ready for more and I discovered myself in so many ways. I came here thinking I was pretty hardcore, but I now know I’m even better than I thought. My training will forever be changed.
Adam Kantelas, Baltimore, MD, Personal Trainer
I was given a wealth of information and advice within a short period of time that was both comprehensive and cohesive. This event is put together and streamlined very well.
It was awesome, everyone is very helpful and resourceful.
It was more in-depth than any other instructive course I have taken.
Scott Gray, Lowell, IN, Strength Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
CSCS, All Conference D1 Running Back, College Football Championship, as well as a High School Football State Championship
Overall, it is a great experience. By far ahead of other competitors. It is very detailed and set up in a nice system.
Ryan Jennings, Lebanon, NH, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Certified personal trainer, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Movement Training Specialist. - I have competed in multiple Strongman events. -Specialize in "unconventional" lifting styles and techniques, Strongman training, and classic barbell
Something you have to experience to understand. A hard-hitting weekend that teaches you to push yourself. Challenging, educational, awesome! I thought I knew how to use kettlebells before I got here, but I was way off. Now I know.
Outstanding! The quality of instruction and the attention to detail far surpassed any expectations.
Much more thorough. In order to get through the weekend you need to be committed and passionate, so it weeds out the people who just want another credential.
Sean Levesque, Minneapolis, MN, Regional Director
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NASM – PT, NETA – PT, AFAA - GX ACE – GX, NETA – GX, YMCA - GX
This experience has been one of the most powerful reminders of what the human body is truly capable of doing. I will never again doubt my or my clients’ abilities to DO and achieve more than we ever dreamed possible. Thank you!
Almost all the trainers were great communicators. The ability to relay such detailed information in an understandable and intriguing way is an art form in itself.
At the top – the only other one would be Pilates reformer training because of the attention to details. The little things matter so much!
Scott Bradley, Centerville, VA, massage therapist/ personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Tri-athlete, Tough Mudder, HKC, CMT
An unbelievable experience that served up knowledge, based with experience, passion and fortitude.
I was amazed oat the level of one on one attention I received, even in a large group setting.
Jon Engum’s passion for kettlebells and implications of other techniques (martial arts) and over all teaching was amazing. I could work with the guy for decades and still have more to learn.
Also, Dr. Cheng’s teaching technique stood out amongst great instructors.
Jason Pak, Somerville, MA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NASM CPT-CES, FMS
Expert instruction of the foundational kettlebell movement. The ability to show personal competence and then proceeding to use the RKC system in order to strive for personal “mastery”. The RKC wasn’t just a series of physical aptitude tests – it was an entire methodology of strength that fostered the mentality of a martial arts form.
The best part is that my background with the FMS ties in so closely with the system of the RKC that I can seamlessly integrate the two into my training.
Kael Skaden, Omaha, NE, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
B.S. Exercise Science, NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer, HKC, NASM-Performance Enhancement Specialist, 2011 Heartland Classic Figure Champion, 4 time Lincoln Half Marathon Finisher
The RKC certification course was worth way more than the monetary investment I put into it. Not only did I sharpen my skills as an instructor, but I learned valuable lessons about strength, commitment, camaraderie, and even marketing myself. RKC training is the beginning to a wonderful journey!
It was very humbling to be among such knowledgeable instructors. To be able to meet Pavel and some of the Team Leaders as a great experience and quite awesome to see how humble they are themselves. Everyone in a leadership role is so knowledgeable which really built the value of the course for me.
The Best! Hands down. I really appreciated that this course is focused on improvement and not to work us to death.
Jacqueline Luciano, Tucson, AZ, HKC Trainer/LMT, LMT, HKC, FMS
Incredible experience offering a plethora of information. I feel privileged to be among some incredible people and masterminds. One of the best experiences of my life.
This weekend was remarkable. I’ve worked with Daniel Sawaya, RKC in Tucson, AZ. He physically prepared me for this event and always said the experience is one I will find for myself. I’m overwhelmed by the knowledge and charisma of all the RKC’s I’ve learned from possess. The assistants were incredibly helpful and the instructors incredibly knowledge. I’m so grateful to Danny, Pavel, masters, Seniors, Team leaders, and comrades alike. Next stop… RKC II!
I’ve attended both RKC and HKC, as well as FMS. All three have provided more in depth discussion and I have left more confident each time.
David Johnson, Summit, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ATC, PTA, PES
No Comparison! I have been to literally more than 100 professional courses. Bar none this is the most legitimate, most difficult course I have ever taken.
Bradley Hartman, Danville, VA, Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
B.Sc. FMS, FMS II, TPI
The Russian Kettlebell Certification met all of my expectations. It offered would class instruction backed by would class service.
I have only done FMS and the two go hand in hand. More emphasis on the “hand” in RKC than FMS. It is redneck meets Russian, deadly combination.
Matt Malatzky; Boston, MA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Worked out for 10 years. Trained with KBs for 4 years. Have NSCA CSCS and HKC.
It was a very educational and extremely informative experience. I came in confident in my KB knowledge and the amount I learned blew me away. I will be able to get more of the benefit out of my and my client training from now on.
The quality of training and knowledge by everyone was extremely helpful this weekend. All questions I had were answered thoroughly. It seemed like everyone had a different expertise or specialty which was nice so you don’t just have one biased opinion.
It was definitely the most educational and most hands on training I have ever done.
Matt Mitchell, Rockwall, TX, High School Teacher, Professional Actor, HKC
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC--Edmond, OK--2010
I learned more in three days about kettlebells than I’ve learned about similar subjects in the same amount of time. The mental, intellectual, and physical intertwining of types of information made this experience the most holistic I’ve ever had.
I found John Du Cane’s marketing session enlightening. As a high school theatre teacher, professional actor, writer and HKC, I see extensive shared connections with what John had to say. Hearing such philosophy as that which I already use in teaching and performing resonates with me in a strong, surprising way.
I told my wife after the Saturday session ended that Pavel is (to quote Rage Against the Machine) “Calm like a Bomb”. Pavel delivered instruction with such patience, integrity, and thorough knowledge. I was happy to have multiple opportunities to learn from him -- each session was profound.
Dino Correa, Oroville, CA, Owner/Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
B.S. Nutrition and Food Science, DragonDoor HKC, TRX Group Suspension Training Certified, AFAA Personal Fitness Training Certified, AFAA Group Fitness Certified, AFAA Kickboxing Certified
As hard as the course is, you learn more about form and techniques by living all the movements.
I felt confident from day 1 that I was in the best hands with the top instructors in the world.
No comparison, top notch training. I would say, almost better than the instructions I’ve receiving at the university.
Craig Hirokawa, Fredericksburg, VA, Physical Therapist, Massage Therapist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Collegiate squash, FMS, SFMA, DPT, VA Certified Massage Therapist
An incredible learning experience. The instructors were extremely dedicated to our learning and our success, and were great examples of what the RKC stands for. And the kind of professional that I aspire to be.
The quality of instructors was fantastic and what makes them so effective is their diverse backgrounds. I had the opportunity to pick the brain of an HS strength and conditioning coach, an entrepreneur and man who wrote the book on the get up every day!
Way ahead in all aspects. Every day was intense both mentally and physically. And because those two were combined. The breadth of material covered was huge. It also enabled people with different learning styles to assimilate what was presented.
Randy Harding, Burbank, IL, Firefighter
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC
It was by far the most physically demanding challenge I have ever done. I started the class with a few injuries. By the time I was done, I had better flexibility, more strength and less pain.
The quality of training was priceless. With all the knowledge I have gained this weekend, I am leaving with improved form in every exercise. I am also leaving feeling physically better than when I started.
Gregory Milsk, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer, Real Estate
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NESTA, PTA Global Bridging, HKC
It is priceless to learn from the best RKC’s in the world face-to-face, and to feel my form improve drastically in the most important exercise – the “foundation” and the “framework” in only 3 days. Leaving here will inspire anyone to always work towards perfection, but realize it is a life-long goal.
Doesn’t get better than this! I was pleased with my HKC led by Engum in Chicago. This was even more impressive. It’s nice to also feel respected by those “ranked” above you in the RKC world. I always felt comfortable when getting critiqued.
David Kliewer, Yukon, OK, NONE GIVEN
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC
This is the only certification I would recommend to learn kettlebells and movement technique. The instructors truly care that you come away with a wealth of knowledge. They are interested in seeing you represent the community in a respectful and professional manner.
Pavel – Amazing teacher. I enjoyed his work on fine tuning different lifts. He was able to convey things very plainly for everyone to understand.
Other Instructors – Everyone was willing to help anytime some asked. They were all passionate about the RKC and wanted to see us succeed.
Aaron Klestinec
Enlightening in ways I never imagined, while also humbling to know that there is never a point where you can stop learning.
Excellent, efficient, tough but understanding. Very encouraging and humble.
The application of performance and actually going through what you will further educate people on. You’re not just reading a book and memorizing material to pass a test.
Michelle Ross Woodstock, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer HKC
I was very happy to have as much instructor as possible the first day. It made the weekend as a whole a great experience for me and I was able to take what I learned and apply it through the rest of the weekend.
In one word incredible. The team leaders and assistants were great! Just one idea or demonstration can make ever part of a movement come together. Loved the pointers. Thanks Team Newton!
Not comparable. This is the best training I have ever had.
Mark Hesse-Withbroe, Lake Elmo, MN, Stock Analyst/Investor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Trailing running – Warrior Dash, Tough Mudder, Urbanathalon
I very much appreciated the “School University of Strength” analogy. This proved to be a big step for me on my ongoing journey to improve myself every day. My Team leader, assistants and team mates all proved great coaching, technical improvements, encouragement and support.
Pavel was great and his personal corrections as he mingled were terrific.
Shaun Cairns – beast tamer and also extremely humble and knowledgeable – a fantastic trainer who I could also relate to as a person (father of 4, 41 yrs old. etc.)
Keith and Brad – many great pointers provided to help me improve. Very good combo of tough love and encouragement.
Great to see that instructors come in all shapes and sizes, from Rugby beast Shaun to dynamo Keith and everything in between!
Although he was not on my team – Steve Freides led a team next to mine. Steve’s attitude support and kindness made me feel like I had a second leader for a good portion of the weekend. Steve, Thank you!
Patrick DiFronzo, Highland Park, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Fitness Institute CPTS
I was the most physically challenging experience I have ever experienced. I was an emotional roller coaster, could not sleep for two nights. I am not ashamed to say I was practically in tears upon completing my testing, especially on the 10 year anniversary of 9/11. I am leaving this weekend with nothing but respect for the RKC community.
Pavel has a presence unlike very few people I have ever met.
Above and beyond any workshop I have attended.
Chris Warren, Champaign, IL, Kinesiology & Personal Training Program Director
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Former college basketball player, multiple certs (FMS, USAW, NSCA-CPT,etc..)
Toughest thing I’ve ever done.
Coaches were vastly knowledgeable. Unbelievably so.
Quality of instruction excellent. Amount of knowledge presented vast. Physical requirements brutal!
Josh Bond, Durham, NC, Fundraiser
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Open water swimming
Refinement of skills, unlocking power, building confidence through knowledge and practice.
Inspiring to be instructed by this team of instructors. To have a variety of personalities, body types, etc. reminded me that anyone can make kettlebells apart of their life – for life.
I’m a swimmer and have completed multiple workshops for that sport, including total immersion. This is the most comprehensive, well constructed training I have received. Pavel and the team deconstruct the techniques and build a sound foundation for training with kettlebells.
Jon Wahlberg, Hudson, WI, Project Manager
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Kettlebell Training since early 2009. HKC Certification June 2010
Top notch, could not have asked for anything more.
Provide more time for technique testing. Being rushed through this critical point is not ideal for the candidate.
Marvin Rodas, Dyer IN, Owner/Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
United States Marine Corps (Sgt), ISSA CPT Battling Ropes Certified, TRX Certified Instructor, HKC, WKC/AKC, Twist Conditioning Certified, National "D" Licensed soccer coach
A great workshop that has honed and finetuned my kettlebell knowledge and a great experience and camaradarie that has elevated my kb knowledge to a whole new level.
By far one of the best training certs I have attended. Tough and worth the price of admission!
Robert Clark, Omaha, NE, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
College football/track. Bachelors of Arts-Exercise Science. NASM PES, HKC.
The example is humbling, gratifying, and knowledgeable. You also start to think of it as an art rather than just a workout. Always strive towards perfection which may take years to come to get one perfect exercise.
Everyone did a great job! I was working with a partner on day 2 and we were working on his get up! Pavel’s was walking by watching the exercise so I asked him if he could help me. We altered the windmill and half kneeling hand position and the way down of the get up to help with transition to the elbow and through to the floor. Pavel, Then asked Dr. Mark Cheng over to help with the tweaking cause it was his drill assignment! Later I told Pavel, thanks! He said “he referred me to an expert”! So those words of being humble go a long way!
Randy Calle, Jackson Hts, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
R.O.T.C, NSAM
This certification training was really hard, even with my training. I now know that you can always push yourself even when you practice. By far the hardest and most rewarding experience I have put myself through. Thank you!!!
Really organized and taught well!! All the Master, Senior and Team Leaders were great. Shout out to Master RKC Geoff Neupert for all his help and breaking the movement down.
The quality is by far solid. The scope of material is complex, but with the help of all the team leaders it made it easier to learn the technique.
Ari Foote, New York, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NSCA Personal Trainer certification Kettlebell Certification 1 and 2 thru Kettlebell Athletics, Pre and Post-natal Certification. 2 years Wado-Ryu Karate
Overall a very positive and information experience. I was physically and mentally challenged like I never have been before and I have learned to appreciate and respect the kettlebell in a whole new light.
Every Master RKC, Team Leader and Pavel displayed great knowledge and professionalism. My team leader, Jon Engum, was intelligent, respectful and fair, and I will take with me his philosophy of kettlebells as a martial art. Without the professional instruction and encouragement I would not have made it through this course!
This course was not only for more physically challenging than any other training I have experienced, but required far more mental activity and attention to detail. It was above and beyond anything I have experienced.
Danny Dlubala, Nashville, IL, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ATC, HKC
Difficult and no joke! It was a great experience and helped expose the weak parts of my training that I over looked. Worth the pain!
Everyone was amazing. No question went unanswered and the instruction was great.
The quality and everything was perfect. It was a much more physical course but that’s to be expected.
Scott Hanson, Bronx, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
8 years experience as a Trainer. NPTI Graduate - Master Trainer, NSCA CPT, FMS, HKC.
It was highly beneficial for me to go through and really experience proper technique in order to educate and instruct my clients and anyone interested in working with KBs.
There is a wealth of knowledge in this system that commands respect. Quality: I appreciate the strictness in technique that allows for a better industry of strength. The instructors and tem leaders pounded that well and I was grateful for it.
Quality: I believe this is the edge of kb fitness training. (Bar none)
Scope: honing in on the benefits of the basics is key and will always be. That is the key to RKC. The fundamentals. Drill=exercise practice.
Material: is exceptional, very practical dependent upon environment.
Jeremy Gritton, Peachtree City, GA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Ironman Triathlon and College Basketball Player
Grueling, demanding, enlightening and worth every penny we pay for the price of admission.
Absolutely amazing! I felt humbled to be around coaches with so much knowledge to be able to take home and help others.
Absolutely amazing weekend and learning experience.
Jeff Armstrong, Wheaton, IL, Strength Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Highland Athlete, Weightlifter, Strength Coach. Studied at the Murray Institute for Higher Lifting, 2001
I asked Dan John what the value of an RKC was. He gave me a two word answer: life changing. It truly gave me a new perspective on life.
The team Pavel, Geoff and all assistants were everywhere they needed to be. Extensive knowledge and physical examples.
The hands on teaching – tough love made all the material and other Pavel books tie together.
Tom Foley, Oakland, CA, Sales Executive @ Nolo.com
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
SF Marathon – 1998, I trained with free weights initially in my teens, then slowly converted over to bodyweight exercises in the early 2000's, with kettlebells being introduced to me by a friend about two years ago.
Empowering. Spiritual motivating. The beginning of my next life.
Totally awesome experience all around.
I feel proud to be part of such a awesome group of people.
Amanda Pezzullo Chicago, IL, Fitness Manager & Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Athletic Acheivements: 4 Year Full Gymnastics Scholarship to University of Missouri, NCAA Post Grad Scholarship to University of Missouri, Training Background: Graduate Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach for University of Missouri 2007-2008, Club Sports Strength & Conditioning Coach for University of Missouri 2007-2009, Personal Trainer for Equinox Fitness 2009-Present, Fitness Manager for Equinox Fitness 2010-Present, Professional Certifications: NSCA-CSCS, CSCCa-SCCC, FMS Certified, PowerPlate L. 1 Certified, Pre/Post Natal Certified
This certification allowed me to learn and understand the basics of 6 kettlebells movements in a team environment. Because of the team environment, I was given multiple ways/versions to teach and cue movements.
Quality wouldn’t stand for just passing anyone. Practical use – allowed for much more practice.
Took the additional time to break up into teams for more individual coaching and breakdown.
Amber Lee, Somerville, MA, Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, CrossFit L1, Olympic Weightlifting, 12 years of dance and soccer
The amount of quality, patience, tough love and knowledge was phenomenal. I have been impressed all weekend with the conduct and attitude of the instructors.
I was blown away by the breadth and depth of knowledge.
Frank Caruso, Lemont IL, Used Car Manager
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Trained in Muay Thai,Power lifted, have been weight lifting since 1983
Very informative with great transition into a workout.
The quality was higher than I could expect and the knowledge was so understandable and easy to interpret back to future clients.
Matt Semrick New York, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, NSCA-CPT, FMS Level l and ll, TRX Suspension Training and TRX Sports Medicine Certified, Former Navy SeaBee Reservist and Veteran of Operation Desert Storm
As an adult who’s life is built around helping others achieve fitness and life style goals – I have found a place to help me truly push for mine – it fits me, it makes sense – I feel renewed.
I have never experienced a better source of information for so many of the major components of moving well – mobility, flexibility, strength and even conditioning. This was consistent from all the instructors. I enjoyed the different presentation styles – but loved the consistency of the message.
There is no comparison. This has been the best investment of my time for me and my clients. I cannot think of a better way to invest in me.
Carl Canning, San Jose CA, Water Polo Coach / Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
FMS Certified. 2008 Team Captain, MVP and Scholar Athlete of the year at De Anza College
Great instruction from everyone, from Pavel to the assistants, not everyone can complete this, so it is great to become apart of an elite and close knit group.
All of the main speakers were fantastic. Clear in communication and had valuable information. The pace of instruction and incorporation of practice during lectures lead to a much clearer understanding.
Much better, clearer and professional. Great course! I feel like my money was well spent, I have a lot to take home with me.
Jennifer Simpson, Springfield, MO, Massage Therapist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC
Absolutely fabulous!! I discovered kb 6 years ago and it helped with my overuse issues with tendinitis in elbows. Little did I know it would help me find my power. I truly became empowered with the practice. The RKC drove in that empowerment but also helped me find my north. The instructors were excellent, communicative, skilled and fun. Pavel is such a wonderful teacher and so incredibly engaged with every person he’s focused on. This was a wonderful opportunity to learn and to discover inspiring role models.
Above and beyond. What sticks out to me is that the instructors leave their ego behind. I never felt judges or criticized or demeaned. I felt encouraged, supported and that I belonged here. Thank you! Pavel – I am so impressed with how personable and considerate you are and so approachable. Even though this is hard core stuff you don’t use fear to motivate. Rather, safety, discipline and the desire to use correct form.
The organization was wonderful and professional. The logistical team really has this down. Thanks to all for helping with the comfort level.
Kelli O’Neil – just can’t say enough good things about her. Wonderful instruction, and encouragement. Made a real connection my whole team leadership was remarkable.
Brook Benten Jimenez, Round Rock, TX, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise and Sport Science. Masters of education in Physical Education in emphasis in Sport and Fitness Administration. American College of Sport Medicine (ACSM) Health and Fitness Specialist. ACE Certified Personal Trainer, AFAA Group Fitness Instructor.
RKC does a great job with educational layering. They use a “building blocks” approach, where the following technique taught is a progression of the former learned. It is a brilliant sequence that makes somewhat complex tasks easy to learn, and to execute properly.
I believe that Pavel has a great way of combining humor with his instruction, which keeps the audience engaged. Although I cannot speak for the background of all of the Sr. Instructor, Team Leaders, it was great that mine, Dr. Mark Cheng, has extensive exercise science and biomechanics education. Having Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in the exercise Science field, myself, it was important to me that my team leader have a solid background in the field, not merely RKC training.
John Ferraro, Atlanta, GA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
TRX Class Instructor Certification BS MTSU, Minor Exercise Science, 4 time mens south Rugby team, 4 Time all-south collegiate Rugby team, Rugby Scholarship to Middle Tennessee State U., Football Scholarship to Benedictine College, All District, All Metro High school football Nebraska
It was the most demanding personal training certifications I have taken. More confidence for my personal technique was obtained than any other certification I have obtained. I am excited to continue progression in the kettlebell world.
Pavel and the masters all demonstrate very high quality presentation and communication skill. This allowed me to have the ability to take the most possible from each presentation.
Assistant RKC instructors were very observant and ands on make sure to constantly correct all mistakes and technique. Without them I would have not known when I got my personal technique correct.
The material and practical use of RKC have been much more beneficial than most certifications. Other certifications never test to make sure all participate can produce correct technique. Passing the test gave a great deal of personal confidence, which I will be able to demonstrate to my personal clients.
Fiona Coutts, Burnie, Tasmania, Australia, Medical Scientist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
BiomedSc
Entertaining, engaging and invaluable.
Stefan Jacobs, Waltham, MA, Personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ACE CPT, HKC, Pre and post natal, professional fighters license 2006 and 2007 United States Kickboxing Association, team BIT (Brazilian Impacto Team)
A great experience! Instruction, overall, was more thorough than anticipated. Most people talk about how physically draining the RKC is, when they should talk about the level of education we receive.
Jennifer Purdy, Atlanta, GA, Educator, Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
CrossFit Level 1, HKC, played varsity field hockey at Princeton University, train and coach on nutrition at FitWit and Condition Kettlebell Gym in Atlanta
RKC is one of the most physically and mentally demanding trainings one can accomplish.
The training and example provided by the trainers was excellent. I felt that I could always get an answer to my questions. I appreciated that while the training was intense both physically and mentally, it was not overwhelming. The staff were attentive to not beating us into the ground, but genuinely helping us improve and successfully make it through the cert days.
Karen Smith was an excellent team leader. She was compassionate and approachable without compromising high standards.
Gary Music kept his attention fully in our group. His comments and coaching were invaluable.
Laura McNally, La Grange IL, Lawyer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Played water polo in college. Since then, endurance cycling and, more recently, strength training
I learned so much about the skill of strength and the importance of movement integrity this weekend. But more than that, I experienced and learned about respect, support, encouragement and meaningful challenge. As a result of training for attending this cert, I have a new body. I also have a completely re-oriented mind regarding all physical activity.
Professional, respectful, inspiring, encouraging, supportive, playful, fun knowledgeable and consistent.
Amy Rakestraw, Atlanta, GA, Personal Trainer, Yoga instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Amy Rakestraw, Atlanta, GA, Personal Trainer, Yoga instructor
It was the most physical training I’ve experienced during a training/workshop but I think that was beneficial. It was thorough and well thought through.
Great information was given in terms of talks and manuals.
The additional marketing talk was important and overlooked in most trainings, so it was great to have that here.
Paul Straw, Sheboygan Falls, WI, Fitness Professional
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
US Navy
As a system of strength like no other, it has brought about changes in me that can and will be used to help my clients/friends more better and stronger utilizing the true strength they have within them that just wants to and is eager to come out.
Very impressed. Inspiring for me to see what kind of RKC instructor I can become. Always very helpful wanting the best for us as students.
Way better, challenging. Not a show up and listen… then you get the certificate. It actually means something… not all will get their certificate.
Tracy Shaw, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, HKC Kettlebell Instructor + Graphic Designer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Ballet, Hip Hop Dancing, Certified Fitness Instructor, Certified Nutritionist, Certified HKC
One of the most challenging yet regarding educational experiences I have had the privilege to be a part of. It was like being broken down and them being rebuilt into something far better – renovation. Like a new foundation has been cast with far more stability to build upon – Thanks!
Exceptional! Their experience and detail in communicating what is required to perform will skill is going to be useful to communicate to my clients.
Professional, educational beyond my expectations, the skills I have learned transcended across more than just kettlebells.
Vicky Jordan, St. Peters, MO, Personal Trainer/ fitness instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Personal Training cert./AFAA, Primary Group Ex. cert./AFAA, Spinning cert./Maddog, CPR, Working as Personal Trainer/instructor for past 8 years
There is no finish line when it comes to training – at RKC you work with the most elite trainers who help you realize this. While you take a beating you somehow learn that you have so much untapped potential to offer to others.
I will find it difficult to attend other trainings – will do so much more research before attending any seminar – any kind.
Jano Iriarte, Viña del Mar, Chile, Martial Artist, Yoga Teacher
Isn’t about the kbells as a tool, it is about the teaching. Everyone can watch a video and “repeat” the moves. But the real experience is with a teacher that had this knowledge. The real value is this seminar is to have access to all this knowledge by great teachers.
Just excellent. Team Leaders put on eye all the time, Sr. RKC Dr. Cheng have the key to find the details to improve and fix the concepts/movements. Pavel? For reasons he is the Master.
Jon Green, New York, NY, Securities Analyst
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Have been training with RKC II Antonio Cordova for about a year and a half
Thanks to the preparations for the RKC and the RKC itself, at 50 years of age I am becoming an athlete for the first time in my life. This training gives me the confidence that I can live another 50 years or more, and all of it will be strong and functional. Since training seriously for the RKC with RKC II Antonio Cordova, I have been more confidence and strong than before in my life, in all aspects of my life.
Better than any training I have done in any arena.
Matt Griffin, Columbus, OH, Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, NSCA-CSCS&CPT, ACE
It was well-regimented and well planned. Very good balance of didactic demonstration and hand-on practice.
High-quality. Not too much info all at once. Good consistency – no conflicting information. Shaun Cairns, Keith and Brad were great.
Brian Nagel, Ottawa ON, Canada, Retired Air Force Officer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
General Fitness
Incredible focus on technique, demonstrated, broken down and then practiced, and practiced and practiced, and practiced. Small things picked up by instructors, practiced and then tremendous improvements.
Quality of training was second to none. Pavel has a keen eye and his rapid diagnose of technical errors and the corrections was outstanding. All the master and senior RKCs were very helpful, respectful and fluid. The demonstrations provided the goal to emulate.
The training was very detailed and a good baseline for kettlebell practice and instruction. All the technique corrections were very direct and then just repetition to push away bad techniques or errors. Watching the Masters, Seniors, and Team Leaders in motion was the proof of the material being presented.
The pull ups and the snatch test are well known, the techniques tests need to e announced/disclose to the candidates sooner. I understand that we had to demonstrate the technique of each exercise, but the specific conditions (press with 2 snatch size bells) for example would have aided my preparation. If it was out there ahead of time I missed it.
Kenneth McClelland, Cedar Rapids, IA, Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Played college football, competed in MMA for 3 years, lifted for 20 years.
Great opportunity to improve my techniques and knowledge regarding the kb and its training philosophy.
I’ve been to numerous seminars and certs but this one was the most comprehensive.
Peter Karp, Wenatchee, WA, Glass Guy
This has been a mind numbing body numbing experience. I’m ready to do it again – let’s go!!
The quality of the instructions was absolutely impressive. I would love to have the time to spend a weekend with my TL (Dr. Rhodes, Paul and James) I loved the information and experience. Mind boggling.
Of highest caliber – much better than any other professional seminar/workshop. Job well done – thank you.
What’s the next course/cert I can attend ?– I’m jazzed about this stuff.
It’s been great to be amongst a group that knows how to communicate without using locker room language.
WALDO COSTA, DISTRITO FEDERAL BRASÍLIA, physical education teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
PERSONAL TRAINER
The material is the best that I ever seen. The quality is the same
Steven Peterson, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ISSA, HKC
Humbly in a way that opens your eyes to what upper lever performance is like.
Much more physical, which showed the importance of proper efficient movements.
More consistent training of teams. Some teams were pushed physically and less mentally. Others stressed technique with little or no hands on performance.
Matthew Blankenship, Nashville, TN, Retail Manager
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
RRCA certified running coach, HKC instructor
This training was mentally and physically exhausting. The amount of knowledge imparted to the candidates will serve them well in their business and/or lives.
Richard Davis, Tulsa OK, Self Employed
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Division 1 Athlete (Football), Amateur Cyclist
A very informative yet challenging three days both mentally and physically.
I thought the quality of training superb for our team. I was greatly impressed with the physiology knowledge of the staff and how the program was based in science.
Edwin Miller, Glenwood, MD, Healthcare Software/Professional trombone player
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
2 years kettlebell experience with HKC certification (12/2010)
Pavel – excellent. Could watch him fix people all day until I learned to anticipate his response.
Jerry Milos, Mt Prospect, IL, Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Wrestling and football coach, masters division wrestling champ
It has been one the hardest and the same time most gratifying things I’ve done.
I found all of them to be very knowledgeable, hopefully and well spoken. Awesome job.
Tom Abbey, Centreville, VA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Div 1 track athlete, USA National Skeleton Athlete 2007-2010, NSPA CPT
An amazing physical and mental experience. I leave with a brain overflowing with knowledge and muscles screaming from education. This is just the beginning.
Spectacular. Instructors provided info for all diverse styles and than gave hands on feedback.
Superior. I am not left with ??’s of how to implement. Instead, I’m left with a precision system.
Faith Smith, Country Club Hills, IL, Account Executive
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC
It was very informative and pointed out areas that I need to continue to improve in. it was also a good opportunity to meet different people and learn from them.
Everyone was great and really helpful and knowledgeable. My team leader Steve F was great! He has a wealth of knowledge and was very patient and approachable. I think that was the best thing about all of the staff, everyone was friendly and not intimidating in anyway. You got the feeling that they were trying to help you get where you need to be to be a good instructor as well as to get the most benefit from your training.
Joshua L. Hughes, Federal Way, WA, Small Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
U.S Navy, Command Fitness Leader for NCHB-5, Division Fitness Leader for Deck Dept. USS Boxer. Blackford County Corrections Officer.
Every movement has a purpose, with out one you lose all. The challenge helped me to be precise at all times.
Amazing, it goes to show when you continue to deepen you knowledge with the kb it becomes natural, easy to correct someone.
Sebastian Katzel, Hickory Hills, IL, Firefighter/Paramedic
The quality was great. Like above, it was an eye opener. All leaders were solid on their teaching. The team leaders were very helpful
Sebastian Katzel, Hickory Hills, IL, Firefighter/Paramedic
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
4 years kettle bell training
We will all be students for life. There will never be a perfect movement. Practice makes near perfect!
That’s why I came. Really awesome on what you can learn. If I went to another RKC next week I would pick up another 20 points on technique. A wealth of knowledge.
Tony Gracia, Portland, OR, Fitness Manager - 24 Hour Fitness
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
BJJ purple belt, Olympic weightlifting
It was an incredibly thorough, complete certification course that touched on all aspects of training. I now feel more confident and competent in coaching strength, power, endurance, flexibility and safety.
he knowledge and quality was absolutely as good as it gets. For me, much of the information was review based on what I had learned in books (namely Pavel’s) but is was a fantastic experience to have great coaches refine and enhance these techniques for me.
Overall a great experience! The published materials (especially Brett Jones) on how to prepare really paid off for me!
SHANE EDWARDS, EVANSTON, IL, WORK IN PROGRESS FITNESS, L.L.C., PERSONAL TRAINER
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
BICYCLING: 42 CENTURIES (INCLUDING 1 SUB 4:30 TEAM 100, SOLO AND TEAM SUB 5 HOUR 100'S, MULTI-DAY 100'S); RODE 850 MILES IN 2 WEEKS AT 19 YEARS OLD; OLYMPIC DISTANCE TRIATHLONS - SOLO AND TEAM; CLIMBED MT. HALEAKALA, MAUI IN UNDER 4 HOURS RIDING TIME.
TRAINING BACKGROUND: RAN TRACK AND DID GYMNASTICS IN GRADE SCHOOL; BICYCLING - ROAD AND MOUNTAIN; SWIMMING; WEIGHTLIFTING; CALISTHENICS; PILATES; KETTLEBELLS
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS: ACE & NASM PERSONAL TRAINER; USA BICYCLE COACHING - CLUB & EXPERT; PHYSICAL MIND PILATES - MAT & ADVANCED MAT; HKC
A weekend more than worth the cost, training and personal changes I had to make to attend. Each day, the fear factor loomed its head, and each day, no matter what happened, I got beyond my fear. The knowledge, support, professionalism and tough love pulled me through.
Pavel exudes confidence and authority. There wasn’t a question he could not answer. Karen Smith was smart. Always spot on and helpful. Came away with more respect then before.
No comparison. A thing to learn, another to perform and teach also. Best ever.
Ken North, Edmonton, AB, Canada, Graphic Designer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
two years kettlebell training - Rod Silcox
I feel very fortunate to have taken part. It is truly a magical group of individuals.
You have assembled a very caring and inspiring group.
Chicago September 2011 Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop—Participant Praise
William T Sadler, Bountiful, UT, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
M.D., Pulmonary and Internal Medicine
Anyone can improve strength, endurance, flexibility and sense of well being by the approach used in the course:
- Baseline assessment;
- Development of skills and strength in incremental steps with careful instruction and feedback;
- Achievement of clearly defined goals.
Pavel is without peer: His ability to break down skills into small parts for the student to absorb; his ability to spot and correct problems; the overall design of the program as a cohesive whole. I know of no similar person My team leader Mark Toomey has been and continues to be a great help in reaching my goals. His instruction is clear, focused and helpful. He is never derogatory. Over several RKC events he has become a valued friend.
I’ve attended one non-RKC event that was horrible. This RKC cert was the polar opposite.
Molly Bird, Omaha, NE, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Assistant Department Head, Personal Training, HKC, NASM CPT, Metabolic Technician (VO2 testing)
The staff is amazing. RKC is a respected group of elite fitness professionals that I would be extremely proud to be a part of. The process is organized, fast-paced, challenging and very educational. The weak need not enlist.
Amazing. When they spoke, I listened. It’s also amazing how they are so good at what they do – while also being good public speakers. The quality of these instructors and their professionalism cannot be matched by any other organization.
Thank you for the opportunity and experience., I am a better trainer just for attending. Andrea Du Cane is an inspiration. I have so much respect for her, she is a great role model. I am honored to have been in her group. Pavel is amazing; I have so much to learn from him. I am registering for RKC II is I pass.
John Du Cane’s marketing lecture was great. It was useful, informative and eye opening. It may have helped me make a very important professional change in my life. It was motivating, and I found myself getting emotional at times.
Patrick Kolashinski, DC, Hudson, WI
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Trained for Tri’s for years, years ago. Dabbled with martial arts and boxing.
It was one of those life-changing events that some of us, who live life, are lucky enough to experience.
Gretchen Summerville, Boone, NC, Mom/Health Educator/Student
Not only has attending the RKC training changed my life, using kettlebells has helped me to overcome a chronic (10 year) shoulder injury, transformed my body and helped me to tap into and awaken the inner warrior inside of me. Having gone through a tough divorce and hardest two years of my life, turns out the timing of the RKC training was not the worst but the best!
Of course Pavel is a genius. Not only is he an impeccable specimen of human strength but also a brilliant teacher with the ability to really speak to everyone at all levels in every subject matter. Although there are probably 150 plus people at this training, Pavel spoke to me, addressed me byname, and offered helpful advice on numerous occasions. Not only a sign of a great teacher, but a kind hearted human being. I cannot say enough about Cortez, Sonnie and Tim, my team leader and assistants. I literally would not have been able to come this far without them. Not only their constant constructive critique, but complete kindness, understanding and absolute attention to safety, made this one of the most incredible experiences of my life. They did not have to go above and beyond, but they did, and I will be forever grateful!
Mike Huffam, New Zealand, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Personal training since 1998, NASM Certified PT, Les Mills Body Trainer, Personal Trainer of the year 2005, 2008
I have been kettlebell training for five years and this has taken my skills to a whole new level. Any kettlebell practicing people out there wondering whether this is worth it? Without a doubt! 100% absolutely!
I felt absolutely privileged to bee on Andrea’s team. Great coaching skills, great knowledge (assistants were also great). Andrea didn’t ramble on, but what she said was well worth listening to. I hope to work with her in the future. Pavel was fantastic – knowledge of the human body was unparalleled in my training life so far (started in 1998). Not to mention his kettlebell skills were amazing. The other senior instructors and team leaders were also very highly skilled. I leave here a way better kettlebell practitioner than when I arrived. Thank you all.
Without doubt, at the top of my pile. Kettlebells, instructor manual, quality within the manual, how the information was delivered and how much information – unbelievable!
Overall – loved it and coming from Auckland, NZ was well worth it. Thanks Dragon Door.
Jason Manous, Athens, GA, Engineer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC
It was very difficult but such intense knowledge should be earned through trial and practice. Probably the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
I’m unsure what to say except "incredible". The level of expertise at this workshop was immense; every aspect of Hardstyle was represented and presented in such a way as to pull all the parts together into one piece.
Overall I found this experience immensely rewarding – I wouldn’t take it back for all the tea in China. This is by far the best workshop of its kind.
Shawn Reed
Tt far exceeded my expectations and expanded my knowledge base of how to be a better or the best kettlebell instructor. The RKC has proven that it is more than a kettlebell certification; it is committed to strength and power.
Michele Neil Tulsa OK, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Martial Arts- 1st degree black belt/Tae-kwon-do, Brown belt/Judo • Bodybuilding/weight lifting-enjoy - multiple competitions- NPC Masters Nationals-Pittsburg May 2007 Opens Womens Heavy Weight 1st, NPC USA’s-Vegas July 2007 Open Women’s Heavy Weight 1st • HKC
This outstanding athletic/academic experience has potentiated the ability for me to redirect the scope of my medical practice. :) Thank you.
- Outstanding
- Solid
- Impeccable
- Committed
- Reproducible
- Organized
- Friendly
- Passionate
- Engaging
- Timely
- High Standard
- Entertaining
- Reflective
- Imaginative
- Superb
- Powerful
- Hardcore
- Inspiring
- And much much more.
Luke Wilson, San Francisco, CA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I.S.S.A. certified, Exercise Science, HKC, Certified in Plyometrics, PNF / ART / AIS stretching, Functional Training, Dumbbell Training, Body Weight Training, Sports specific training, Myofacia release.
Yoga instructor, boot camp instructor, aqua aerobics instructor, Brazilian jiu jitsu instructor, Muay Thai enthusiast, rock climber, lifestyle coach, sandbag trainer and fitness model.
Blows all of the workshops and books I’ve read away. Most certs tell you what to do but lack in the why. This program breaks it down in a way you can understand and apply.
Scott Poirier, Dudley, MA, Electrical Engineer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certified, US Navy Seabee, Second degree brown belt, kensho ryu kempo karate, trained for 2 years with Carols Terrinha Team Draculino Gracie Barra, Currently training in the Gracie Combatives Program.
The training was top notch. I’ve never seen such professionalism, knowledge and strength under one roof. The training was very tough, but when it was said and done, it was worth it.
Pavel is incredibly knowledgeable on all levels of strength and conditioning. It’s not only the vast amount of knowledge e that he has with kettlebells, but also how he connects all his knowledge to all type of movement, especially martial arts. The Sr. Instructors and the Team Leaders were awesome. Very professional, patient and helpful with teaching the kettlebell techniques and quick to make correction if needed.
Simona Boler, Maplewood, MN, Massage Therapist & Child Care Provider
The RKC has really challenged my physically and mentally but most importantly it has affected me as to who I am. I have gained skill, knowledge, confidence and respect for myself.
The quality is superior and Pavel, Instructors and Team Leaders are all passionate about what they do and it is conveyed in a way that is tough and respectful in order for us (the students) to succeed and learn.
The RKC has really been one of the best thing I have one for myself. Not just in terms of strength and knowledge but I am a mother of 4 girls and have always been the mom that does everything for my family and with kettlebells and RKC I have found myself again.
I am a better mother, wife and person. I have gained confidence, knowledge and a sense of purpose that has been lacking in my life. Everything I have learned here this weekend in some form will trickle down into every aspect of my life. Thanks Pavel and Dragon Door for all that kettlebells have given me. Just want to add that I have lost nearly 25lbs, over 20+ inches and gained more than 10lbs of muscle using KBs for the past year and a half.
Lou Argenzio, Avon, MA, Health Club Owner, Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, NSCA CPT
This was an extremely challenging and thorough course. It makes you stronger both mentally and physically. Outstanding! This course was not just about kettlebells, it was about movement and how to use the skills to improve it. These techniques will help anyone become more connected to their bodies.
This is the best training I’ve been to by far. It is a great combination of information, practical application and skill.
Aaron Vice, Chicago, IL, Personal Training Manager, Fitness Consultant
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ACSM - CPT
My body is full of pain and my mind is full of knowledge. Quality of training was excellent. Team leaders were knowledgeable and approachable.
Piers Kwan - Brisbane , Australia, School Chaplain and Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Certificate IV in Personal Training, Diploma of Youth Work, Bachelor of Theology.
The instruction was thorough and well thought out. There was a great balance between up front teaching, practice, and practical troubleshooting. I flew halfway around the world for this certification, away from my family and friends and I can say without a doubt that it was worth that and more!
Fantastic. Without a doubt there is no other kettlebell organization – and maybe no other fitness group that can offer the caliber of instructors and training we received this week.
By far the best. Blows the others out of the water in quality, scope and particularly practical use.
Rosalia Chann, Brooklyn, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Professional Contemporary Ballet Dancer
The RKC community opens arms to all that are here. More than willing to help and share invaluable techniques and information. The knowledge and lessons that I’ve gained here will help me in all aspects of life. (Respect, Discipline, Dedication, Strength)
It was worth every penny, I improved so much over the past three days and gained knowledge that will last me a lifetime. I am looking forward to taking other courses in the future to continue expanding my knowledge.
They were all excellent and so helpful. I learned/ improved so much while under their instruction. The training and knowledge was in depth and invaluable. I like that you must earn this. They don’t let any mistakes slide by. They are stern and strict, but very encouraging when making corrections. It was a great experience.
It’s the best. No other courses I have taken have been this in depth and hands on with individual attention to each student. I now have a greater understanding in how to practice myself and what should be done when coaching others.
Andrea Nichols-Everett, Chicago, IL, Fitness and Nutrition, Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, AFAA- group fitness, NESTA – personal trainer, Zumba Instructor
Pavel is amazing! Just amazing. It was an honor to be in the same room with him.
This was by far the hardest training I have ever completed- physically. The marketing presentation was a wonderful bonus you normally do not get. Lots of material presented but not overwhelming at all.
Thank you for the opportunity to be here. I have learned so much. I am better at kettlebells because of this course.
Aaron Baulch, Tulsa, OK, Owner: Deep Development Studio
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I have been in the health and fitness industry for more than 20 years. After spending many of those years as a competitive body builder, my focus now lies in deepening my yoga practice and learning movement with the kettlebell.
The course from start to finish has truly been an incredible experience. The amount of material covered has been amazing. I look forward to digesting it, putting it into practice and coming back for more!! Thanks to all at Dragon Door.
One again, the amount of information covered has been amazing. All of the instructors are incredibly well prepared and qualified to be in the positions they are in. the RKC is the gold standard of the strength/functional movement group and it shows with al those involved. Thanks again.
The complete program has been excellent. I have been a part of the fitness industry for over 20 years and this course definitely rates at the top of all that I have taken part in. This has been an awesome experience!!!
Marc Morris, Lisbon, IA, Direct Sales
A lot of information, packed into 3 days. Learned to simplify my training to be able to convey that to the clients back home. Grueling training, but very satisfying from a content stand point.
Pavel put many of the cues and subtleties in very easy to understand terms. He helped with many examples and answered questions I had before I even asked them.
The most intense training I have ever experienced. Quality was second to none. Lost of material to digest, but excellent manual to revisit after leaving here. Very practical exercises that can be taken home and used with clients.
Great use of time and materials covered – workouts were fantastic – no changes needed – a fantastic experience!
Ben Poss, Vancouver, Canada, personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I've been a personal trainer, running my own business for the past 6 years. I used to compete in amateur boxing when I was younger and won the golden gloves a couple of times. I've been training with kettlebells for the past year or so since getting my HKC and have been a member of CrossFit Vancouver for the past year and a half.
This has definitely been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. It has also been one of the most enjoyable and the things I’ve learned will definitely make me a better athlete and trainer.
I was very impressed by the instruction. From Pavel, to the presenters, to my team leader and asst instructors, they were all awesome. Very knowledgeable and were able to correct a lot of my weaknesses.
This was by far the most intense certification I have ever attended. The focus on detail and from, the level of integrity, the high standards and the snatch test have made this my favorite cert to date.
All in all this has been a fantastic experience and I am definitely proud to say that I am now a member of the RKC family!!!
Josh Renkens, Nashville, TN, Chiropractor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
DC, MA Ed, ART, MAT, CSCS
It is a top-notch organization providing quality, useful instruction. Their attention to detail and professionalism is something I have not experienced with other certifications.
Pavel and Jeff O’Connor and Andrew Read stood out for me. I enjoyed working with my team leader – Michel Hartle – very much. I enjoyed his sense of humor and appreciated his knowledge and high standards of instruction.
The quality of instruction was excellent. I most certainly appreciated the attention to detail.
Great job to the entire RKC team. Thank you for providing a fantastic experience.
Kellen Milad, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NASM-CES Certified, specializes in kettlebell and bodyweight training
The RKC experience, to me, is characterized by the relentless pursuit of knowledge. All to often we encounter people and situations that are complacent. The RKC has shown me there is a community out there of people that want to get better and want to impact the world with positive change.
The training was excellent. A thorough review of comprehensive material published by Dragon Door delivered in a simplistic, minimalist approach. Through this simplicity we can then become aware of the depth and complexity of everything we learned and process (the info) at our own pace and to whatever depth we desire.
This was by far the most well organized and comprehensive workshop I have ever attended. I have been working with kbs for 2 years and directly with an RKC, but his experience was irreplaceable.
Tracey Macri, Latham, NY, Central Office Technician
They are a wonderful group of professionals who are "over the top" passionate about kettlebells. The camaraderie that you experience when attending is like no other. If you want to get the skills you need for self growth or to show others, this is where you need to do it.
I’m sure all has been said before, but Pavel has this incredible aura about him. When he speaks, he commands attention. He is so knowledgeable and I guess I didn’t think anything less. My instructors Neghar and Jeff were incredible. They had many suggestions and really took the time to be sooo… attentive. Mark Toomey was great also, what a sense of humor and a calming force. He made you feel relaxed and stopped us form sweating over the small stuff.
Wannika Henderson, Alban, NY, Service Manager
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Crossfit Level I Certified
This certification training has been the most educational and satisfying training I have been to. The way each movement is broken down and simplified into basic steps contributes to significant understanding. It helps me feel more confident in being able to impact this knowledge on to others and in the correct manner in which it was taught to me.
The quality of training was excellent. The way everyone is consistent in their message and how it relates to everyday life is very valuable. The passion is seen during every moment review. The quality was of the highest level.
It truly has been the best. In other trainings, you do not receive the applicable uses for everyday life and you do here. RKC talks and emphasizes fundamental care basics which help in every other movement you do.
George Koupatadze, Chicago, IL, Software Testing, Personal Training
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Martial Arts training, NESTA personal trainer, CrossFit Level 1 trainer + a few CrossFit specialty certifications
The training was incredible. The instruction was top notch. The attention to detail by the team leaders and instructors was amazing. it helped me in many ways to become a better athlete and trainer.
The Dragon Door staff was amazing. Pavel provided very deep insights into the art and science of training. The team leaders were knowledgeable and helpful. They were very encouraging as well. I appreciated their efforts very much.
The RKC cert was by far the best and fullest certification seminar in terms of quality, scope of material and practical use.
Christina Leo, Nashville, TN, Database Developer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certification, May 2010, Before discovering kettlebells, I completed six half marathons, two sprint triathlons, and numerous 5-Ks.
I have grown and changed in ways I never imagined in the past 16 months. I hope to be swinging a kettlebell well into my nineties. OUTSTANDING! I was well impressed with all the team members and assistant RKCs with whom I worked. Not only were they all more than willing to help and share their knowledge, it was clear to me that they are passionate about this discipline.
The RKC was everything I expected it to be in terms of quality and depth of training, as well as high standards and integrity. I feel very comfortable teaching others to begin their kettlebell practice safely and with fun.
Brady Jones, McComb, MS, Teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Instructor
This certification training has given me a vast amount of additional tools I can implement with my clients and friends. It has provided more than I could have ever thought in three days. This is the definite turning point in my training.
I believe I just got three days of the most powerful and informational packed instruction on the planet from the best. All leaders expressed what they expected at all times and were direct.
I’ve never been comfortable with safety in physical exercise till now. I can take this instruction into my training immediately.
Michael Morris, Acworth, GA, Teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
High School Football Coach, HKC certified, Level 1 Sports Performance Coach certified USAW
The RKC experience is tough, professional, and extremely thorough in its teaching of HardStyle Kettlebell strength training.
The instructional team was outstanding. The depth of knowledge and understanding was apparent and the professionalism displayed by all instructors was impressive.
Top notch I am certified in Olympic weight lifting through USA weightlifting and this workshop blows it away. Because of the physical testing, practice, and program design this workshop deepens the understanding of not only how to do the lifts, but also why you should use kettlebells and their benefits.
Dawne Taylor, Summit, MS, HKC Instructor
It was pain. Preparing for and the actually three days of the RKC training has pushed me harder physically, mentally, and emotionally than I have ever experienced before.
A whole lot more than I could obtain in a lifetime. Exceptional to say the least.
Achilles Litao, Mansfield, OH, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
American Board of Pediatrics
Akin to a spiritual awakening. Exercise suddenly made sense.
Pavel’s presence by itself is the main experience most specially if one has read his book(s). His manner of imparting information is outstanding, a gifted teacher. I was under Mark Toomey’s team. I am impressed by the way Mark handled the topics oat hand. He adjusts the way he presents materials according to the level of understanding of the listener. Most especially I picked up significant aspects form the TGU from Mark that I haven’t encountered or might have missed in the books that I have read about the GU. Truly, Mark has provided a lot of insights not mentioned in the lectures.
Steph Hoeper, North Liberty, IA, Fitness instructor/personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
College basketball and softball. Recreational runner. Former teacher, basketball, track, and cross country coach. Currently hold ACE personal trainer and group fitness instructor certifications.
I was sick to my stomach with nervous anticipation for this course. Once I met my team and team leaders, the true excitement set in. I love the community and the vast knowledge made available to us.
Highest quality I’ve had in a fitness workshop. I am a fact and stat junkie – loved the info; proof and explanation of why we do what we do – because that’s what I want to be able to give my clients when I go home. I love the high standard of the RKC because it gives it value to me and to others to know I EARNED it (hopefully :) ). I also really appreciated Mark Toomey’s ability to make it all real instead of building up pressure. He, Neghar, and Jeff were excellent at building confidence while providing us with ways to constantly improve. I appreciated the one on one persistence especially with tweaking my swing. (Which I thought I had tweaked at my HKC). I feel much more confident, smooth and athletic in my kettlebell skills.
Beyond any ACE certified course I’ve attended in all areas.
Chris Reynolds, Bloomington, IL, Firefighter/Paramedic
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Military Police Corrections Officer (Army 1994-1997), IL Department of Corrections Correctional Officers (1998-2006), Professional Firefighter/Paramedic (2006-Current)
I came to realize that it is the series of little things that when added up can make all the difference in t technique and performance. Instructors were super and very helpful. I look forward to returning to my department and teaching my fellow fireman correct use of kettlebells.
I was very impressed with the quality of instruction. Every instructor had the goal of making us better.
RKC was more concise and to the point. No Fluff!
Greg Gorecki, Hinckley, OH, Sales
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Black Belt in Kenpo, Trained in Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido
A tough love approach to testing your discipline, safety, endurance and strength. A great experience for the not faint of heart!
Excellent knowledge on all instructors parts especially Pavel. Their insight was top-notch! I learned so much more about kettlebells and their usage!
Above and by far the most intense physically and the most mentally nurturing seminar I have been to.
Brandon Sallee, Columbus, OH, Army Infantry Officer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Active Duty National Guard Infantry Officer with various athletic endeavors including track, semi professional football. Airborne Ranger qualified, Military Mountaineer qualified and Iraqi Freedom veteran. HKC qualified in Jan 2011 in Columbus, Ohio.
The RKC training cert has opened my eyes to the simple yet highly sophisticated world of utilizing the kettlebell as a tool of strength that travels the whole spectrum of physical culture.
They are all professionals who bring their expertise form their fields and apply it to the RKC system. They all bring a flavor and give something you never though of before.
It has a militaristic quality down to the true attention to detail. It was a tough physical weekend that still allowed motor pattern development.
Trevor Frampton, Devon, PA, Fitness Director Club LA Maison.
A higher standard was set by getting instruction from multiple RKC instructors. I realized that the wealth of knowledge in this community is greater than I ever realized. I will train harder and smarter than ever before.
Wonderful instruction and extension of knowledge. It feels like we are joining a family. We are joining a family that has knowledge to back it up and will make a great impact on the entire world.
Outstanding! The knowledge is very expansive and diverse. It’s nice to see continual development in techniques and strategy.
Patrick McCarthy Kennebunk, ME, Strength Coach/ Fitness Specialist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NSCA CSCS, HKC, Functional Movement Screen Certified, College Baseball
Wealth of knowledge slammed into 3 days. High repletion of the basic movements made the learning process easier.
Top of the industry. All presenters are extremely knowledgeable and showed us different teaching styles.
Aaron Pierson, Fort Collins CO, Emergency Medical Technician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, Level 4 Krav Maga practitioner.
A realization on how kb’s have changed so many lives, from so many walks of life.
The RKC workshop has been one of the most physically and mentally challenges I have experienced. I will walk away stronger in every aspect of life.
I found that each instructor has something to teach. Not everybody is created the same or teaches the same. Watching nearly 20+ instructors troubleshoot in various ways taught me a lot. I truly enjoyed the lectures and individual talks with each instructor I spoke with. I also like knowing that each instructor must pass the same test I do before the workshop begins.
The hand on instruction by far exceeds any training I have encountered.
Sarah Riedl, Minneapolis, MN, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
3 years triathlon/marathon experience, including one Ironman-distance triathlon, NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer since 2005, Specialist in Active Isolated Stretching (the Mattes method) since 2005
It is a great combination of listening and actually doing, in a way that makes kettlebells easy to understand. It certainly helped refine my technique while explaining why it is so important to be so precise. And it was also a wonderful opportunity to network and become involved in the RKC community.
I appreciated the careful guidance they provided. They were quick to help us spot our mistakes, and very useful in teaching us how to teach others.
The Russian KB Certification Training is far better than any other training I’ve had in physical exercise. With RKC you have to be able to "walk the walk, not just "talk the talk". I’ve actually taken courses that you can study through a video and workbook, with no instructor evaluation at all. RKC provides more information, and better yet, direct feedback from qualified instructors. It is the most thorough certification I’ve taken.
Steve Goldbach, New York, NY, Management Consultant
RKC challenged my body and my intellect. I’m not a trainer but RKC made it more likely that I will have consistent and positive experiences when I train. In essence, RKC showed me what good looks like. Terrific instruction – Jon Engum, Andrew and Val had the right mix of tough love and encouragement.
The knowledge demonstrated was broad and deep. Best part was when the instructors would show the deep connections between the movements to demonstrate how they reinforced each other and built on that same principles.
I’m a white collar guy who just happened to meet an RKC II Instructor (Antonio Cordova) and the training has delivered more results than any other coaching I’ve received. 2.5 years ago I couldn’t do a pull-up; now I do the snatch test in 4:15. I came here as "my marathon".
Actually, I think this was extremely professionally run for the cost. I have attended other (non-fitness) conferences/seminars and the organization and professionalism of this is top notch.
Marion Ingram, Nashville, TN, Banking
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certified
Mental strength – there comes a point at which you have to make a decision – Am I weak or am I strong. KB and the RKC has a way of challenging you physically and mentally. A good instructor is both and the RKC offers every opportunity during certification for you to decide – the choice is yours.
Respect – I’ve heard many fitness certifications are more bookwork and tests – why would you want an instructor who can’t do the moves correctly on their own? RKC has set a standard for all their instructor and the level of respect comes for knowing the extreme amount of physical tests the instructors are put through. You don’t "pay" for their type of certification, you "earn" it.
Loved my team leader – Du Pain! And Josh Hillis and Dustin Miller – awesome team leader assistants.
No comparison. I’ve worked with other fitness instructors and it wasn’t until I worked with an RKC did I know I was squatting incorrectly. I can’t believe I was doing it wrong for so long, but I’m grateful I found an RKC instructor to correct it. Now I know I’m doing it correctly and won’t hurt myself.
Jeremy Bowman, Richmond, VA, Personal Trainer
The course was well planned and put together. From the beginning to the end, it flowed from one aspect (movement) to the next, to finish with an understanding of how each works to better the other movement.
The quality of Pavel was outstanding. I got to get some personal attention from him and through this corrected some issues that I was having with my squat. He cleared up a lot of questions and head banging against the wall on why certain techniques were not working. The quality of the Senior Instructors was outstanding; lots of combined knowledge and ideas that when used together helped very much. The Team Leaders were very knowledgeable and constantly trouble shooting to make everyone better.
This has been one of the most intense as well as the most hands on style of teaching (training). The quality has been the best in terms of physical exercise and on par if not better on the knowledge. The scope of the material is well thought out and put together.
Steve Fillbrandt, St. Louis Park, MN. None
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, Krav Maga student
The RKC helped me strengthen what was right, improve what was wrong, and showed me many of the varied, though correct, techniques that work with different body types.
Even if I did not receive a teaching certificate, this weekend of training is worth about a year of kettlebell classes (and I am not denigrating kb classes when I say that).
Beth Ehrmann, Colorado Springs, CO, Owner of The Wrecking Bell- a strength and conditioning gym in Colorado Springs, CO
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Marine, former police officer, Krav Maga practitioner, HKC
Invaluable training. From corrective drills to marketing ideas, everything "made sense". There was no exercise, no lecture, no tip that I felt was a waste of time. So much knowledge in one room – three days well spent!
Seeing these guys in person, putting their knowledge to use to sometimes. Literally, transforming a person’s form and skill level was impressive. Their willingness to lessen and help never wavered. The positive "can do will do" attitudes were always there. Great experience.
Kristina Chang, Sunnyvale, CA
Wish I could do this every weekend!
Every single instructor I met this weekend was knowledgeable, professional, consistent and engaging.
Robin Arnone, Woodbine, MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
19 years of personal training, Pilates Cert. FMS, Certified, HKC Cert.
I truly enjoyed being around such dedicated and knowledgeable instructors. You would never know that the asst. did this on a volunteer basis. They were very helpful and approachable. The instructors seemed truly interested and dedicated to my learning.
For the most part I was very surprised at how humble the instructors were. I was surrounded by such great athletes and such great knowledge but no egos. I didn’t feel like the instructors were trying to intimidate you. I felt welcomed into the RKC community.
The take home material is def. superior. With exception to the FMS class/cert., no other certification seems as professional or put together. The RKC has made a great name/reputation for itself and I am proud to be a part of it.
Sean Leffler, Los Alamos, NM, Embedded Software Developer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Tae Kwon Do, AFAA PT Cert
I only thought I knew how to swing. :)
A terrific group. The breadth and depth of knowledge you gain is invaluable, even if you don’t take it for certification (or don’t pass). My students are in for quite a shock when I get back!
All of my team was very knowledgeable and super helpful. Kind when needed, strict when needed. I would not hesitate to take trainings /courses with tem in the future.
For my (part time job) @ the YMCA, I have to have an AFAA Cert. that cert is practically useless to me as a KB instructor. This RKC Cert is about teaching how to teach, where as the other paper certs are about insurance liability. I hope my YMCA will change its policy about this.
Katherine F Parent, New York, NY, Clinical Research Associate
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
5 years kickboxing, 2 years training in Kettlebells.
A very tough course but well worth the investment. Instruction was stellar and well thought out as techniques we learned in class the first day were used as building blocks for the instruction on the second day. Course is very well organized and team leader a wonderful instructor! (Andrea)
If I can one day swing the way Pavel does, I will be a very happy woman! Until then, I plan to train very hard to hopefully got close! He made sit look very easy! All jokes aside, I learned a lot from Pavel and his presentations. The way he presents his material is well organized and thought out. Andrea really spent time to help me achieve much more than I thought possible.
JP Martinez, Albuquerque NM, Flight Paramedic
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Firefighter/Paramedic with Albuquerque fire department, Involved in plenty sports throughout life with experience coaching high school basketball years ago. Most certifications related to fire service and medical services.
The training was a success to me mentally and physically made possible by very knowledgeable practitioners of kettlebell and movement training.
Pavel is brilliant in books and even better in person. All personnel bring his same spirit to teaching.
No comparison. Efficient training compared to mindless exertion.
Thank you to all that helped bring this opportunity to my life and practice!
Michelle Chan, Seattle, WA, Sports Management
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
4 year Division 1 Collegiate Rower, CrossFit Kettlebell Certified.
It provided a very clear and concise explanation of each fundamental RKC movement from the top down. It highlighted the background of each movement and how each ties together. It was extremely enlightening and absolutely invigorated my passion for the kettlebell and what it can bring to our community.
The quality was impeccable and gold standard. Instruction was clear and concise with a bit of humor tossed about. Our team leader and assistants on TEAM ROSS kept us very engaged – gave me very helpful tips. I truly appreciate the emphasis on "subtleties" of each movement.
High level of practical usage. Scope of material is concentrated; definitely not able to get all the subtleties, but the support of the RKC community afterwards will definitely lend to the continued refinement of my kettlebell practices.
Jessica Huthmaker Columbia, SC, Kettlebell Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Powerlifting, fitness, and bodybuilding titles prior to being introduced to kettlebells. Now, kettlebells only! I love seeing my clients and my own life changing for the better the longer we do kettlebells! Initial RKC cert in 2004
Great! Excellent teachers/team leaders.
No comparison. No other cert I have ever attended even comes close to being in the same league.
Orion Dooley, Cranston, RI, UPS Driver
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Quality instruction from very knowledgeable professionals was given.
Amazing! Pavel is an exceptional teacher. His knowledge and ability to fix problems is unequaled. The team leaders were excellent. Each one bringing something new to the table. My team leader "Doc" Hartle was very helpful with his tough love.
Rhonda Dean, Mansfield, OH, Information Technology Manager
This certification training has been amazing. Not only did it test physical strength, but also my mental strength and endurance.
The instructors were very professional and extremely knowledgeable. All seemed to be very helpful and generally seemed to want to make sure we succeeded.
Jenni Hanson, Bettendorf, Iowa, Nurse
A weekend packed full of instruction of technique, practice and evaluation. We received individual attention and instruction whenever needed.
Pavel is a deep well of knowledge and it was amazing to hear each thing had to say. Each of the instructors did a great job at tough love with instruction.
It was extremely well organized and I feel like I was able to increase my knowledge with technique dramatically during this course..
Dennis Evans, The Woodlands, TX
A very well designed class that is light years a head of the times for cutting edge training. Very knowledgeable in human biomechanics with scientific research to back it up. Strong family feeling from instructors to students.
Pavel and all the instructors were very informative and approachable. The strong sense of family and community was very refreshing. No doubt their goal was to improve everyone at this seminar in some very, shape or form.
This class was by far the most informative class that I have attended. All the material is based in science with research to back it up as well as practical application that bring truth to the why’s of what we are doing.
Noel Tenoso, West Linn, Oregon, Physical Therapist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Former Competitive Cyclist (road, velodrome), former runner, college tennis, karate, physical therapist, certified functional movement screen (FMS), certified Mechanical Diagnostic Therapist (Mckenzie Institute), certified Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapist(North American Institute of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy), Orthopedic Certified Specialist(American Physical Therapy Association)
Best training I’ve had on exercises movement analysis. Bering a P.T. I look more at isolated movement but this puts it all together for me at looking at total body movement and stability. This has all levels of application in both clinical and stress realm.
Crystal Kelly, Boone, NC, Program Director – NonProfit
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
None, other than sports (cross country, swimming) almost 20 years ago.
This training is extremely well organized with so much information and practice with the kbs. I feel stronger, both mentally and physically, after this weekend.
I was so impressed with the depth of knowledge of all of the instructors, team leaders, and especially Pavel. It’s so clear that there is a deep commitment and passion that everyone has – it’s contagious! There’s so much to learn I feel like t his training could be a week long just to cover the basics.
Michael O’Brien, Ashburn, VA, Small Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
High school and college football (division III), no other certs at this time but studying for the ISSA PT cert.
Great experience learning techniques and skills from top-notch instructors that were completely accessible to learn from. Great networking with other top-notch athletes, trainers that want to add value to themselves and their clients.
Thought all instructors that taught were great. My team leader, Jeff O’Connor was great. He was strict with the students but always wanted to let us know to have fun and relax. Excellent overall experience with trainers, I have learned to have the upmost respect to the knowledge, experience and teaching ability of Jeff and his team of George and Alise.
Amy Bento Ross, Darien, CT, Fitness Professional/Expert
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HS and College Athlete (Volleyball, Basketball, Softball) Creator and star of 24 home workout DVD's sold on the global market. Star of four "10 Minute Solution" series workout DVD's Certifications - AFPA PT, AFPA Advanced PT, NASM CPT, CPR. Married to RKC Team Leader Phil Ross.
I learned the fundamentals and foundation of kettlebell training. A high level of attention to detail in specific core moves were taught. I was challenged both mentally and physically throughout the weekend. I would be proud to receive the cert based on the "gold" standard of experience this weekend.
I was impressed at the depth of knowledge. There was a high level of integrity shown for not only the subject matter and practice but demanded of us as well. This is what sets RKC apart from others.
There was more depth of movement. Other certs focus on just specific areas of movement without weight stimulus. This cert is physically challenging. Others are not and therefore I don’t walk away with as much. I was put through the motions here and extensive movement. This sets it apart. Repetition and physical and mental challenge. I will retain more here than in other certs.
Allan Stephenson Jr, Upper Marlboro, MD, Strength Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
CSCS, FMS, HKC
It was the most complete and physically challenging certification experience I have had.
Pavel is excellent. He is friendly and a great representative for Dragon Door.
More time for instruction. More time for better adherence to breaks so bathroom and necessary phone calls can be made. If there is a ten minute break and three minutes of it is spent addressing us we have limited time to take care of things.
Rachel Ali, Jersey City, NJ, Physical Therapist
It is the best seminar I have attended so far because it not only improves me personally but I can also use all the principles to help my family and friends and clients.
Mr. Pavel Tsatsouline is someone I have looked forward to see and listen to, and he didn’t disappoint me. He was very knowledgeable on his topic but presented himself humbly and reachable and understandable to me. You didn’t have to be a person with a science degree to understand what he was talking about despite trying to explain and present scientific principles. It has been an honor to meet him.
The RKC training is by far the best seminar I have attended, amongst a lot of other physical therapy courses and seminars I have attended. Most PT courses are a waste of time and money because the lecturer just reads off from the book or a speech and almost all attendees get sleepy whereas RKC is presentation and application. Application is active participation of attendees. I never had a single moment where I felt sleepy.
Carrie Walker, Fuquay-Varina, NC,
My experience of the Russian Kettlebell Certification training gave me a better respect for myself. Through this training, I experienced and realized how far I have come since the first day I picked up a kettlebell. I have so much pride in myself as a result of kettlebells.
This is by far the best organized training event I have ever experienced not only in the fitness world but at a corporate level. I felt very welcome. There was not a time where I felt rushed if I did not understand something or felt degraded for my lack of knowledge. I enjoyed the emphasis on safety and loved the camaraderie.
This is my very first certification, yet I have been to several seminars on running and nutrition. Everyone was knowledgeable, professional, well organized and respectful. I loved the structure and enjoyed the use of time with out being rushed.
Todd Hitchcock, Catonsville MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
BS. Exercise Science, NSCA – CSCS, FMS, HKC
The RKC has a unique way of challenging you to your limits and beyond. Not just physically, but mentally as well. A true test of oneself!
I was very impressed. These guys are all world-class experts on kettlebell training. Every instructor was very knowledgeable on all aspects of skills, techniques and training methodology.
Nothing comes close. HKC was one day of basic instruction – still good. But RKC was three full, intensive days packed with information and practice.
Cullen McDonald, Albuquerque, NM, Firefighter
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
State champion in wrestling, all-state in football and track in high school. Competitor in Firefighter Combat Challenge World Championships (2003). Won 2005 Grappler’s Quest in Las Vegas, NV. Two-Time winner in Rumble in the Rio, police vs. firefighter boxing matches 2007-2008. HKC certified 2010. Wrestling and Football coach in 2001. Background in MMA style fighting. Instructor in Albuquerque Fire Academy in 2007. Training as a HKC for past year. Z-Health Essentials certification. MMA submission wrestling under Greg Jackson,
There is no better training or teachers, they back all statements and instruction with proven scientific research.
Elisa Mailman, New York, NY, investment analyst
The training was amazing. I was on team Ross and our three instructors were knowledgeable, thoughtful and when needed, critical. I felt myself improving all weekend, which I attributed to them. They were able to tweak little things, which helped tremendously. I am not a personal trainer, so this was my first (my trainer is RKC II and challenged me to do it). But the quality, scope of material and practical use was fantastic. I can take all of this home and make my workouts more precise, stronger and hopefully more enjoyable.
Derek Lahti, Neenah, WI, Functional Training/Kettlebell Gym Owner & Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
6 months of TaeKwon Do, Lifetime interest of martial arts, little experience with Wu Style Tai Chi, Bachleors Degree in Exercise Science, CSCS Certified, Trained under Level II RKC trainer for past year, Opened own gym Oct 2010.
An intense training both mentally and physically in the proper training of kettlebells. Proper breakdown of the movements to better understand safety and strength.
Quality was in depth. They freely shared this knowledge on techniques to better perform a movement. This information will be able to be directly incorporated into my kettlebell instruction and own training.
Fred Mindach, Murfreesboro, TN, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Served 5 Years in the United States Navy, supporting Iraqi freedom. Been a personal Trainer for 9 years. I have moved to exploring a lot of bodyweight movements. Hold a degree from the University of Hawaii, Hold an ACE-cpt and AFAA-cpt currently
It is has been every mentally and physically challenging course that has a return of a hundred times. It helps you get past barriers that push through every aspect of your life. One of the most rewarding certifications I have even ben to.
It is by far the best collection of minds and experience I have had the pleasure to be a part of, it is quality instruction that is very personalized even though it was in a bog group. That only happens with top tier instruction.
The attention to detail is unparalleled. No other course I have taken goes near into the depth of training than this.
Sergio Perez, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
IMS Certified, Y-Balance Test Certified
Pavel and the team leaders are greatly knowledgeable. They pushed you and corrected and showed you different ways to viewing kb training, corrections and life lesson. It’s knowledge they have built up through years of practice but one weekend only gives you a fraction of what they can teach.
Russian KB certification is in a world of it’s own! Nothing gets your heart racing like bks. From a running background, the only thing that gets me that working this hard is sprints and your body can only do that for short sports. kb’s allow you to train full body in the same intensity as sprints!!
Cap O'Rourke, Minneapolis, MN
It is a physically demanding yet technically focused training that transfers knowledge of kb to others so that they are prepared to teach.
I have had little training but the attention to detail and building on a base of knowledge was impressive.
Victor Selvaggi, Ellicott City, MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
AFPA, FMS, NSPA, HKC
Hand work and dedication to one system equals great results. Sharpening the sword! A large variety of backgrounds and knowledge, all under one roof. The instructors were professional and dedicated to the cause.
Roxanne Altmeyer, Minneapolis, MN, Hairstylist/RKC
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
RKC
I’m re-certing. I now understand why there is a need to come back to this place every 2 years. I have refined my skills/moves 10x overs. The certification gets better and better.
Steph Woods, Cedar Lake, IN, Fitness Coach
Was a great learning experience. The training was intense but not unbearable. All the instructors are amazing and really know what they are talking about and now how to help your form.
Besides where I train I have no other experience of training. But because of the workouts I do at home it helped prepare me for the RKC and my coach also Angela Romas helped prepare mentally.
Paul Gorman, Evansville, IN, ATC, PTA, CSCS
Top Notch. No comparison. The HKC/RKC should be a part of elite level certification programs for all strength and conditioning certs.
Vince Gabriele, Berkeley Heights, NJ, Owner and trainer at Gabriele fitness
It helps people/trainers understand how important it is to be strong. It helps us understand how the human body moves and how it shouldn’t. It helps us understand what needs to be stable and what needs to be mobile in order to be healthy.
The hands on aspect was huge. Most certs are just from books. This you have to prove you can perform the drills yourself and also be able to coach someone through them.
I thought everyone was helpful and gave consistent feedback on certain coaching cues. I felt everyone was on the same page in regards to the coaching cues that were given. The quality of training was outstanding and taught me that anyone can get strong and everyone should be strong.
Gary Herman, Springfield, MO, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
FMS level 1; SFMA level 1, certified athletic trainer (ATC)
After going through Brandon Hetzler’s, RKC, CK-FMS training for six months I thought I fixed most of my bad habits. The RKC exposed those habits I thought I fixed and rebuilt my techniques. The RKC is a long, high volume certification, but done in a manor to control fatigue and still get quality/RKC standard reps.
Hard to put into words. You can see the different level of knowledge each leader brings to the table. You can tell these people live for RKC and practice it on a daily basis. There is one thing to know how to do a skill, but it is totally different to be able to teach it to different people and have everyone understand.
RKC has a reason to what it is doing. All through life coaches tell me to do something, but they don’t have a reason. RKC explains everything in a manner that easy to understand.
Linsey Smith, Springfield, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
FMS level 1; SFMA level 1, certified athletic trainer (ATC), PES.
After my training I thought I had fixed my bad habits. This course was intense and made me realize there is always work to be done.
This weekend was exceptional! My knowledge was greatly improved by the staff. They were professional and detailed in their instruction.
This training was more intense than anything I have gone through. The material is greatly beneficial to me for my profession. I will be able to apply these exercises to improve the quality of my athletes.
Jen Codutti, Springfield, MO, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Marathon, half marathons, trail running. ATC, FMS, HKC
It is probably the most intense training and seminar I have attended. I am already using many of the ideas and techniques in my own work setting.
Rowena Litao, Mansfield, OH, Homemaker
My endurance and strength levels were tested to my maximum limits. It is imperative to train hard for one year before coming to RKC training. Most importantly, is to keep my focus at doing perfect techniques for each form, in spite of the grueling training drills and workouts for the whole weekend. Staying mentally alert at the tine of execution is a must.
Justin Lindley Plano, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
USSCA National and Iowa State Champion (1992), NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (2007), Associates Degree in Physical Therapy (1995), and HKC Certified (2010)
How strength is enhanced by mobility. Developing a more resilient person.
When I think Pavel and RKC I think quality. That was just reinforced this weekend.
Pavel and the whole RKC team keep the integrity of RKC and the kettlebell. They are proud and protective of it. Not so with all certs.
Heather Dayton, Maplewood, MN, Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
In the Fitness Industry for 15+ years. Professional Certifications/Training include: HKC,Spinning, NETA cpt, TRX, Zumba, with a strong interest in core, corrective exercise, chronic pain disorders, physical and cardiac rehab.
Honored to be a part of this training experience. It was difficult but rewarding. I have gained insight and knowledge that I know will impact my own personal/physical development as well as my clients.
By far RKC has provided in a short 3-day time span more information and practical training experience than any other certification. Thank you. I respect the strict requirements for certifications!
Benjamin M. Bulera, Woodbury, MN, Student
As a college student I face instruction, and lectures every day. It is apparent that the RKC holds a standard of expectation for all team leaders to be elite in knowledge as well as strength. Thank you!
James Croteau, McComb MS, Personal Trainer HKC
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, BJJ Blue Belt 1st Stripe under Carlos Machado
Very informative. Tests your ability to endure hard workouts but at the same time shows you how to endure better.
I’ve practiced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a couple of years. And the same kind of discipline is there. The scope of material is there and also the practical use is a little more than BJJ.
All over great experience. Very informative. I will definitely be training in a different way for now on..
Roy Bocina, East Northport, NY, Police Officer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Prior US Army, Current Police Officer, Sandan American Jiu Jitsu, Guro Pekiti Tirsia
Was a good experience, very good instruction.
St. Paul April 2011 Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop—Participant Praise
William T Sadler, Bountiful, UT, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
M.D., Pulmonary and Internal Medicine
Anyone can improve strength, endurance, flexibility and sense of well being by the approach used in the course:
- Baseline assessment;
- Development of skills and strength in incremental steps with careful instruction and feedback;
- Achievement of clearly defined goals.
Pavel is without peer: His ability to break down skills into small parts for the student to absorb; his ability to spot and correct problems; the overall design of the program as a cohesive whole. I know of no similar person My team leader Mark Toomey has been and continues to be a great help in reaching my goals. His instruction is clear, focused and helpful. He is never derogatory. Over several RKC events he has become a valued friend.
I’ve attended one non-RKC event that was horrible. This RKC cert was the polar opposite.
Molly Bird, Omaha, NE, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Assistant Department Head, Personal Training, HKC, NASM CPT, Metabolic Technician (VO2 testing)
The staff is amazing. RKC is a respected group of elite fitness professionals that I would be extremely proud to be a part of. The process is organized, fast-paced, challenging and very educational. The weak need not enlist.
Amazing. When they spoke, I listened. It’s also amazing how they are so good at what they do – while also being good public speakers. The quality of these instructors and their professionalism cannot be matched by any other organization.
Thank you for the opportunity and experience., I am a better trainer just for attending. Andrea Du Cane is an inspiration. I have so much respect for her, she is a great role model. I am honored to have been in her group. Pavel is amazing; I have so much to learn from him. I am registering for RKC II is I pass.
John Du Cane’s marketing lecture was great. It was useful, informative and eye opening. It may have helped me make a very important professional change in my life. It was motivating, and I found myself getting emotional at times.
Patrick Kolashinski, DC, Hudson, WI
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Trained for Tri’s for years, years ago. Dabbled with martial arts and boxing.
It was one of those life-changing events that some of us, who live life, are lucky enough to experience.
Gretchen Summerville, Boone, NC, Mom/Health Educator/Student
Not only has attending the RKC training changed my life, using kettlebells has helped me to overcome a chronic (10 year) shoulder injury, transformed my body and helped me to tap into and awaken the inner warrior inside of me. Having gone through a tough divorce and hardest two years of my life, turns out the timing of the RKC training was not the worst but the best!
Of course Pavel is a genius. Not only is he an impeccable specimen of human strength but also a brilliant teacher with the ability to really speak to everyone at all levels in every subject matter. Although there are probably 150 plus people at this training, Pavel spoke to me, addressed me byname, and offered helpful advice on numerous occasions. Not only a sign of a great teacher, but a kind hearted human being. I cannot say enough about Cortez, Sonnie and Tim, my team leader and assistants. I literally would not have been able to come this far without them. Not only their constant constructive critique, but complete kindness, understanding and absolute attention to safety, made this one of the most incredible experiences of my life. They did not have to go above and beyond, but they did, and I will be forever grateful!
Mike Huffam, New Zealand, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Personal training since 1998, NASM Certified PT, Les Mills Body Trainer, Personal Trainer of the year 2005, 2008
I have been kettlebell training for five years and this has taken my skills to a whole new level. Any kettlebell practicing people out there wondering whether this is worth it? Without a doubt! 100% absolutely!
I felt absolutely privileged to bee on Andrea’s team. Great coaching skills, great knowledge (assistants were also great). Andrea didn’t ramble on, but what she said was well worth listening to. I hope to work with her in the future. Pavel was fantastic – knowledge of the human body was unparalleled in my training life so far (started in 1998). Not to mention his kettlebell skills were amazing. The other senior instructors and team leaders were also very highly skilled. I leave here a way better kettlebell practitioner than when I arrived. Thank you all.
Without doubt, at the top of my pile. Kettlebells, instructor manual, quality within the manual, how the information was delivered and how much information – unbelievable!
Overall – loved it and coming from Auckland, NZ was well worth it. Thanks Dragon Door.
Jason Manous, Athens, GA, Engineer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC
It was very difficult but such intense knowledge should be earned through trial and practice. Probably the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
I’m unsure what to say except "incredible". The level of expertise at this workshop was immense; every aspect of Hardstyle was represented and presented in such a way as to pull all the parts together into one piece.
Overall I found this experience immensely rewarding – I wouldn’t take it back for all the tea in China. This is by far the best workshop of its kind.
Shawn Reed
Tt far exceeded my expectations and expanded my knowledge base of how to be a better or the best kettlebell instructor. The RKC has proven that it is more than a kettlebell certification; it is committed to strength and power.
Michele Neil Tulsa OK, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Martial Arts- 1st degree black belt/Tae-kwon-do, Brown belt/Judo • Bodybuilding/weight lifting-enjoy - multiple competitions- NPC Masters Nationals-Pittsburg May 2007 Opens Womens Heavy Weight 1st, NPC USA’s-Vegas July 2007 Open Women’s Heavy Weight 1st • HKC
This outstanding athletic/academic experience has potentiated the ability for me to redirect the scope of my medical practice. :) Thank you.
- Outstanding
- Solid
- Impeccable
- Committed
- Reproducible
- Organized
- Friendly
- Passionate
- Engaging
- Timely
- High Standard
- Entertaining
- Reflective
- Imaginative
- Superb
- Powerful
- Hardcore
- Inspiring
- And much much more.
Luke Wilson, San Francisco, CA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I.S.S.A. certified, Exercise Science, HKC, Certified in Plyometrics, PNF / ART / AIS stretching, Functional Training, Dumbbell Training, Body Weight Training, Sports specific training, Myofacia release.
Yoga instructor, boot camp instructor, aqua aerobics instructor, Brazilian jiu jitsu instructor, Muay Thai enthusiast, rock climber, lifestyle coach, sandbag trainer and fitness model.
Blows all of the workshops and books I’ve read away. Most certs tell you what to do but lack in the why. This program breaks it down in a way you can understand and apply.
Scott Poirier, Dudley, MA, Electrical Engineer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certified, US Navy Seabee, Second degree brown belt, kensho ryu kempo karate, trained for 2 years with Carols Terrinha Team Draculino Gracie Barra, Currently training in the Gracie Combatives Program.
The training was top notch. I’ve never seen such professionalism, knowledge and strength under one roof. The training was very tough, but when it was said and done, it was worth it.
Pavel is incredibly knowledgeable on all levels of strength and conditioning. It’s not only the vast amount of knowledge e that he has with kettlebells, but also how he connects all his knowledge to all type of movement, especially martial arts. The Sr. Instructors and the Team Leaders were awesome. Very professional, patient and helpful with teaching the kettlebell techniques and quick to make correction if needed.
Simona Boler, Maplewood, MN, Massage Therapist & Child Care Provider
The RKC has really challenged my physically and mentally but most importantly it has affected me as to who I am. I have gained skill, knowledge, confidence and respect for myself.
The quality is superior and Pavel, Instructors and Team Leaders are all passionate about what they do and it is conveyed in a way that is tough and respectful in order for us (the students) to succeed and learn.
The RKC has really been one of the best thing I have one for myself. Not just in terms of strength and knowledge but I am a mother of 4 girls and have always been the mom that does everything for my family and with kettlebells and RKC I have found myself again.
I am a better mother, wife and person. I have gained confidence, knowledge and a sense of purpose that has been lacking in my life. Everything I have learned here this weekend in some form will trickle down into every aspect of my life. Thanks Pavel and Dragon Door for all that kettlebells have given me. Just want to add that I have lost nearly 25lbs, over 20+ inches and gained more than 10lbs of muscle using KBs for the past year and a half.
Lou Argenzio, Avon, MA, Health Club Owner, Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, NSCA CPT
This was an extremely challenging and thorough course. It makes you stronger both mentally and physically. Outstanding! This course was not just about kettlebells, it was about movement and how to use the skills to improve it. These techniques will help anyone become more connected to their bodies.
This is the best training I’ve been to by far. It is a great combination of information, practical application and skill.
Aaron Vice, Chicago, IL, Personal Training Manager, Fitness Consultant
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ACSM - CPT
My body is full of pain and my mind is full of knowledge. Quality of training was excellent. Team leaders were knowledgeable and approachable.
Piers Kwan - Brisbane , Australia, School Chaplain and Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Certificate IV in Personal Training, Diploma of Youth Work, Bachelor of Theology.
The instruction was thorough and well thought out. There was a great balance between up front teaching, practice, and practical troubleshooting. I flew halfway around the world for this certification, away from my family and friends and I can say without a doubt that it was worth that and more!
Fantastic. Without a doubt there is no other kettlebell organization – and maybe no other fitness group that can offer the caliber of instructors and training we received this week.
By far the best. Blows the others out of the water in quality, scope and particularly practical use.
Rosalia Chann, Brooklyn, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Professional Contemporary Ballet Dancer
The RKC community opens arms to all that are here. More than willing to help and share invaluable techniques and information. The knowledge and lessons that I’ve gained here will help me in all aspects of life. (Respect, Discipline, Dedication, Strength)
It was worth every penny, I improved so much over the past three days and gained knowledge that will last me a lifetime. I am looking forward to taking other courses in the future to continue expanding my knowledge.
They were all excellent and so helpful. I learned/ improved so much while under their instruction. The training and knowledge was in depth and invaluable. I like that you must earn this. They don’t let any mistakes slide by. They are stern and strict, but very encouraging when making corrections. It was a great experience.
It’s the best. No other courses I have taken have been this in depth and hands on with individual attention to each student. I now have a greater understanding in how to practice myself and what should be done when coaching others.
Andrea Nichols-Everett, Chicago, IL, Fitness and Nutrition, Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, AFAA- group fitness, NESTA – personal trainer, Zumba Instructor
Pavel is amazing! Just amazing. It was an honor to be in the same room with him.
This was by far the hardest training I have ever completed- physically. The marketing presentation was a wonderful bonus you normally do not get. Lots of material presented but not overwhelming at all.
Thank you for the opportunity to be here. I have learned so much. I am better at kettlebells because of this course.
Aaron Baulch, Tulsa, OK, Owner: Deep Development Studio
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I have been in the health and fitness industry for more than 20 years. After spending many of those years as a competitive body builder, my focus now lies in deepening my yoga practice and learning movement with the kettlebell.
The course from start to finish has truly been an incredible experience. The amount of material covered has been amazing. I look forward to digesting it, putting it into practice and coming back for more!! Thanks to all at Dragon Door.
One again, the amount of information covered has been amazing. All of the instructors are incredibly well prepared and qualified to be in the positions they are in. the RKC is the gold standard of the strength/functional movement group and it shows with al those involved. Thanks again.
The complete program has been excellent. I have been a part of the fitness industry for over 20 years and this course definitely rates at the top of all that I have taken part in. This has been an awesome experience!!!
Marc Morris, Lisbon, IA, Direct Sales
A lot of information, packed into 3 days. Learned to simplify my training to be able to convey that to the clients back home. Grueling training, but very satisfying from a content stand point.
Pavel put many of the cues and subtleties in very easy to understand terms. He helped with many examples and answered questions I had before I even asked them.
The most intense training I have ever experienced. Quality was second to none. Lost of material to digest, but excellent manual to revisit after leaving here. Very practical exercises that can be taken home and used with clients.
Great use of time and materials covered – workouts were fantastic – no changes needed – a fantastic experience!
Ben Poss, Vancouver, Canada, personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I've been a personal trainer, running my own business for the past 6 years. I used to compete in amateur boxing when I was younger and won the golden gloves a couple of times. I've been training with kettlebells for the past year or so since getting my HKC and have been a member of CrossFit Vancouver for the past year and a half.
This has definitely been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. It has also been one of the most enjoyable and the things I’ve learned will definitely make me a better athlete and trainer.
I was very impressed by the instruction. From Pavel, to the presenters, to my team leader and asst instructors, they were all awesome. Very knowledgeable and were able to correct a lot of my weaknesses.
This was by far the most intense certification I have ever attended. The focus on detail and from, the level of integrity, the high standards and the snatch test have made this my favorite cert to date.
All in all this has been a fantastic experience and I am definitely proud to say that I am now a member of the RKC family!!!
Josh Renkens, Nashville, TN, Chiropractor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
DC, MA Ed, ART, MAT, CSCS
It is a top-notch organization providing quality, useful instruction. Their attention to detail and professionalism is something I have not experienced with other certifications.
Pavel and Jeff O’Connor and Andrew Read stood out for me. I enjoyed working with my team leader – Michel Hartle – very much. I enjoyed his sense of humor and appreciated his knowledge and high standards of instruction.
The quality of instruction was excellent. I most certainly appreciated the attention to detail.
Great job to the entire RKC team. Thank you for providing a fantastic experience.
Kellen Milad, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NASM-CES Certified, specializes in kettlebell and bodyweight training
The RKC experience, to me, is characterized by the relentless pursuit of knowledge. All to often we encounter people and situations that are complacent. The RKC has shown me there is a community out there of people that want to get better and want to impact the world with positive change.
The training was excellent. A thorough review of comprehensive material published by Dragon Door delivered in a simplistic, minimalist approach. Through this simplicity we can then become aware of the depth and complexity of everything we learned and process (the info) at our own pace and to whatever depth we desire.
This was by far the most well organized and comprehensive workshop I have ever attended. I have been working with kbs for 2 years and directly with an RKC, but his experience was irreplaceable.
Tracey Macri, Latham, NY, Central Office Technician
They are a wonderful group of professionals who are "over the top" passionate about kettlebells. The camaraderie that you experience when attending is like no other. If you want to get the skills you need for self growth or to show others, this is where you need to do it.
I’m sure all has been said before, but Pavel has this incredible aura about him. When he speaks, he commands attention. He is so knowledgeable and I guess I didn’t think anything less. My instructors Neghar and Jeff were incredible. They had many suggestions and really took the time to be sooo… attentive. Mark Toomey was great also, what a sense of humor and a calming force. He made you feel relaxed and stopped us form sweating over the small stuff.
Wannika Henderson, Alban, NY, Service Manager
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Crossfit Level I Certified
This certification training has been the most educational and satisfying training I have been to. The way each movement is broken down and simplified into basic steps contributes to significant understanding. It helps me feel more confident in being able to impact this knowledge on to others and in the correct manner in which it was taught to me.
The quality of training was excellent. The way everyone is consistent in their message and how it relates to everyday life is very valuable. The passion is seen during every moment review. The quality was of the highest level.
It truly has been the best. In other trainings, you do not receive the applicable uses for everyday life and you do here. RKC talks and emphasizes fundamental care basics which help in every other movement you do.
George Koupatadze, Chicago, IL, Software Testing, Personal Training
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Martial Arts training, NESTA personal trainer, CrossFit Level 1 trainer + a few CrossFit specialty certifications
The training was incredible. The instruction was top notch. The attention to detail by the team leaders and instructors was amazing. it helped me in many ways to become a better athlete and trainer.
The Dragon Door staff was amazing. Pavel provided very deep insights into the art and science of training. The team leaders were knowledgeable and helpful. They were very encouraging as well. I appreciated their efforts very much.
The RKC cert was by far the best and fullest certification seminar in terms of quality, scope of material and practical use.
Christina Leo, Nashville, TN, Database Developer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certification, May 2010, Before discovering kettlebells, I completed six half marathons, two sprint triathlons, and numerous 5-Ks.
I have grown and changed in ways I never imagined in the past 16 months. I hope to be swinging a kettlebell well into my nineties. OUTSTANDING! I was well impressed with all the team members and assistant RKCs with whom I worked. Not only were they all more than willing to help and share their knowledge, it was clear to me that they are passionate about this discipline.
The RKC was everything I expected it to be in terms of quality and depth of training, as well as high standards and integrity. I feel very comfortable teaching others to begin their kettlebell practice safely and with fun.
Brady Jones, McComb, MS, Teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Instructor
This certification training has given me a vast amount of additional tools I can implement with my clients and friends. It has provided more than I could have ever thought in three days. This is the definite turning point in my training.
I believe I just got three days of the most powerful and informational packed instruction on the planet from the best. All leaders expressed what they expected at all times and were direct.
I’ve never been comfortable with safety in physical exercise till now. I can take this instruction into my training immediately.
Michael Morris, Acworth, GA, Teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
High School Football Coach, HKC certified, Level 1 Sports Performance Coach certified USAW
The RKC experience is tough, professional, and extremely thorough in its teaching of HardStyle Kettlebell strength training.
The instructional team was outstanding. The depth of knowledge and understanding was apparent and the professionalism displayed by all instructors was impressive.
Top notch I am certified in Olympic weight lifting through USA weightlifting and this workshop blows it away. Because of the physical testing, practice, and program design this workshop deepens the understanding of not only how to do the lifts, but also why you should use kettlebells and their benefits.
Dawne Taylor, Summit, MS, HKC Instructor
It was pain. Preparing for and the actually three days of the RKC training has pushed me harder physically, mentally, and emotionally than I have ever experienced before.
A whole lot more than I could obtain in a lifetime. Exceptional to say the least.
Achilles Litao, Mansfield, OH, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
American Board of Pediatrics
Akin to a spiritual awakening. Exercise suddenly made sense.
Pavel’s presence by itself is the main experience most specially if one has read his book(s). His manner of imparting information is outstanding, a gifted teacher. I was under Mark Toomey’s team. I am impressed by the way Mark handled the topics oat hand. He adjusts the way he presents materials according to the level of understanding of the listener. Most especially I picked up significant aspects form the TGU from Mark that I haven’t encountered or might have missed in the books that I have read about the GU. Truly, Mark has provided a lot of insights not mentioned in the lectures.
Steph Hoeper, North Liberty, IA, Fitness instructor/personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
College basketball and softball. Recreational runner. Former teacher, basketball, track, and cross country coach. Currently hold ACE personal trainer and group fitness instructor certifications.
I was sick to my stomach with nervous anticipation for this course. Once I met my team and team leaders, the true excitement set in. I love the community and the vast knowledge made available to us.
Highest quality I’ve had in a fitness workshop. I am a fact and stat junkie – loved the info; proof and explanation of why we do what we do – because that’s what I want to be able to give my clients when I go home. I love the high standard of the RKC because it gives it value to me and to others to know I EARNED it (hopefully :) ). I also really appreciated Mark Toomey’s ability to make it all real instead of building up pressure. He, Neghar, and Jeff were excellent at building confidence while providing us with ways to constantly improve. I appreciated the one on one persistence especially with tweaking my swing. (Which I thought I had tweaked at my HKC). I feel much more confident, smooth and athletic in my kettlebell skills.
Beyond any ACE certified course I’ve attended in all areas.
Chris Reynolds, Bloomington, IL, Firefighter/Paramedic
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Military Police Corrections Officer (Army 1994-1997), IL Department of Corrections Correctional Officers (1998-2006), Professional Firefighter/Paramedic (2006-Current)
I came to realize that it is the series of little things that when added up can make all the difference in t technique and performance. Instructors were super and very helpful. I look forward to returning to my department and teaching my fellow fireman correct use of kettlebells.
I was very impressed with the quality of instruction. Every instructor had the goal of making us better.
RKC was more concise and to the point. No Fluff!
Greg Gorecki, Hinckley, OH, Sales
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Black Belt in Kenpo, Trained in Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido
A tough love approach to testing your discipline, safety, endurance and strength. A great experience for the not faint of heart!
Excellent knowledge on all instructors parts especially Pavel. Their insight was top-notch! I learned so much more about kettlebells and their usage!
Above and by far the most intense physically and the most mentally nurturing seminar I have been to.
Brandon Sallee, Columbus, OH, Army Infantry Officer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Active Duty National Guard Infantry Officer with various athletic endeavors including track, semi professional football. Airborne Ranger qualified, Military Mountaineer qualified and Iraqi Freedom veteran. HKC qualified in Jan 2011 in Columbus, Ohio.
The RKC training cert has opened my eyes to the simple yet highly sophisticated world of utilizing the kettlebell as a tool of strength that travels the whole spectrum of physical culture.
They are all professionals who bring their expertise form their fields and apply it to the RKC system. They all bring a flavor and give something you never though of before.
It has a militaristic quality down to the true attention to detail. It was a tough physical weekend that still allowed motor pattern development.
Trevor Frampton, Devon, PA, Fitness Director Club LA Maison.
A higher standard was set by getting instruction from multiple RKC instructors. I realized that the wealth of knowledge in this community is greater than I ever realized. I will train harder and smarter than ever before.
Wonderful instruction and extension of knowledge. It feels like we are joining a family. We are joining a family that has knowledge to back it up and will make a great impact on the entire world.
Outstanding! The knowledge is very expansive and diverse. It’s nice to see continual development in techniques and strategy.
Patrick McCarthy Kennebunk, ME, Strength Coach/ Fitness Specialist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NSCA CSCS, HKC, Functional Movement Screen Certified, College Baseball
Wealth of knowledge slammed into 3 days. High repletion of the basic movements made the learning process easier.
Top of the industry. All presenters are extremely knowledgeable and showed us different teaching styles.
Aaron Pierson, Fort Collins CO, Emergency Medical Technician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, Level 4 Krav Maga practitioner.
A realization on how kb’s have changed so many lives, from so many walks of life.
The RKC workshop has been one of the most physically and mentally challenges I have experienced. I will walk away stronger in every aspect of life.
I found that each instructor has something to teach. Not everybody is created the same or teaches the same. Watching nearly 20+ instructors troubleshoot in various ways taught me a lot. I truly enjoyed the lectures and individual talks with each instructor I spoke with. I also like knowing that each instructor must pass the same test I do before the workshop begins.
The hand on instruction by far exceeds any training I have encountered.
Sarah Riedl, Minneapolis, MN, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
3 years triathlon/marathon experience, including one Ironman-distance triathlon, NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer since 2005, Specialist in Active Isolated Stretching (the Mattes method) since 2005
It is a great combination of listening and actually doing, in a way that makes kettlebells easy to understand. It certainly helped refine my technique while explaining why it is so important to be so precise. And it was also a wonderful opportunity to network and become involved in the RKC community.
I appreciated the careful guidance they provided. They were quick to help us spot our mistakes, and very useful in teaching us how to teach others.
The Russian KB Certification Training is far better than any other training I’ve had in physical exercise. With RKC you have to be able to "walk the walk, not just "talk the talk". I’ve actually taken courses that you can study through a video and workbook, with no instructor evaluation at all. RKC provides more information, and better yet, direct feedback from qualified instructors. It is the most thorough certification I’ve taken.
Steve Goldbach, New York, NY, Management Consultant
RKC challenged my body and my intellect. I’m not a trainer but RKC made it more likely that I will have consistent and positive experiences when I train. In essence, RKC showed me what good looks like. Terrific instruction – Jon Engum, Andrew and Val had the right mix of tough love and encouragement.
The knowledge demonstrated was broad and deep. Best part was when the instructors would show the deep connections between the movements to demonstrate how they reinforced each other and built on that same principles.
I’m a white collar guy who just happened to meet an RKC II Instructor (Antonio Cordova) and the training has delivered more results than any other coaching I’ve received. 2.5 years ago I couldn’t do a pull-up; now I do the snatch test in 4:15. I came here as "my marathon".
Actually, I think this was extremely professionally run for the cost. I have attended other (non-fitness) conferences/seminars and the organization and professionalism of this is top notch.
Marion Ingram, Nashville, TN, Banking
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certified
Mental strength – there comes a point at which you have to make a decision – Am I weak or am I strong. KB and the RKC has a way of challenging you physically and mentally. A good instructor is both and the RKC offers every opportunity during certification for you to decide – the choice is yours.
Respect – I’ve heard many fitness certifications are more bookwork and tests – why would you want an instructor who can’t do the moves correctly on their own? RKC has set a standard for all their instructor and the level of respect comes for knowing the extreme amount of physical tests the instructors are put through. You don’t "pay" for their type of certification, you "earn" it.
Loved my team leader – Du Pain! And Josh Hillis and Dustin Miller – awesome team leader assistants.
No comparison. I’ve worked with other fitness instructors and it wasn’t until I worked with an RKC did I know I was squatting incorrectly. I can’t believe I was doing it wrong for so long, but I’m grateful I found an RKC instructor to correct it. Now I know I’m doing it correctly and won’t hurt myself.
Jeremy Bowman, Richmond, VA, Personal Trainer
The course was well planned and put together. From the beginning to the end, it flowed from one aspect (movement) to the next, to finish with an understanding of how each works to better the other movement.
The quality of Pavel was outstanding. I got to get some personal attention from him and through this corrected some issues that I was having with my squat. He cleared up a lot of questions and head banging against the wall on why certain techniques were not working. The quality of the Senior Instructors was outstanding; lots of combined knowledge and ideas that when used together helped very much. The Team Leaders were very knowledgeable and constantly trouble shooting to make everyone better.
This has been one of the most intense as well as the most hands on style of teaching (training). The quality has been the best in terms of physical exercise and on par if not better on the knowledge. The scope of the material is well thought out and put together.
Steve Fillbrandt, St. Louis Park, MN. None
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, Krav Maga student
The RKC helped me strengthen what was right, improve what was wrong, and showed me many of the varied, though correct, techniques that work with different body types.
Even if I did not receive a teaching certificate, this weekend of training is worth about a year of kettlebell classes (and I am not denigrating kb classes when I say that).
Beth Ehrmann, Colorado Springs, CO, Owner of The Wrecking Bell- a strength and conditioning gym in Colorado Springs, CO
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Marine, former police officer, Krav Maga practitioner, HKC
Invaluable training. From corrective drills to marketing ideas, everything "made sense". There was no exercise, no lecture, no tip that I felt was a waste of time. So much knowledge in one room – three days well spent!
Seeing these guys in person, putting their knowledge to use to sometimes. Literally, transforming a person’s form and skill level was impressive. Their willingness to lessen and help never wavered. The positive "can do will do" attitudes were always there. Great experience.
Kristina Chang, Sunnyvale, CA
Wish I could do this every weekend!
Every single instructor I met this weekend was knowledgeable, professional, consistent and engaging.
Robin Arnone, Woodbine, MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
19 years of personal training, Pilates Cert. FMS, Certified, HKC Cert.
I truly enjoyed being around such dedicated and knowledgeable instructors. You would never know that the asst. did this on a volunteer basis. They were very helpful and approachable. The instructors seemed truly interested and dedicated to my learning.
For the most part I was very surprised at how humble the instructors were. I was surrounded by such great athletes and such great knowledge but no egos. I didn’t feel like the instructors were trying to intimidate you. I felt welcomed into the RKC community.
The take home material is def. superior. With exception to the FMS class/cert., no other certification seems as professional or put together. The RKC has made a great name/reputation for itself and I am proud to be a part of it.
Sean Leffler, Los Alamos, NM, Embedded Software Developer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Tae Kwon Do, AFAA PT Cert
I only thought I knew how to swing. :)
A terrific group. The breadth and depth of knowledge you gain is invaluable, even if you don’t take it for certification (or don’t pass). My students are in for quite a shock when I get back!
All of my team was very knowledgeable and super helpful. Kind when needed, strict when needed. I would not hesitate to take trainings /courses with tem in the future.
For my (part time job) @ the YMCA, I have to have an AFAA Cert. that cert is practically useless to me as a KB instructor. This RKC Cert is about teaching how to teach, where as the other paper certs are about insurance liability. I hope my YMCA will change its policy about this.
Katherine F Parent, New York, NY, Clinical Research Associate
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
5 years kickboxing, 2 years training in Kettlebells.
A very tough course but well worth the investment. Instruction was stellar and well thought out as techniques we learned in class the first day were used as building blocks for the instruction on the second day. Course is very well organized and team leader a wonderful instructor! (Andrea)
If I can one day swing the way Pavel does, I will be a very happy woman! Until then, I plan to train very hard to hopefully got close! He made sit look very easy! All jokes aside, I learned a lot from Pavel and his presentations. The way he presents his material is well organized and thought out. Andrea really spent time to help me achieve much more than I thought possible.
JP Martinez, Albuquerque NM, Flight Paramedic
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Firefighter/Paramedic with Albuquerque fire department, Involved in plenty sports throughout life with experience coaching high school basketball years ago. Most certifications related to fire service and medical services.
The training was a success to me mentally and physically made possible by very knowledgeable practitioners of kettlebell and movement training.
Pavel is brilliant in books and even better in person. All personnel bring his same spirit to teaching.
No comparison. Efficient training compared to mindless exertion.
Thank you to all that helped bring this opportunity to my life and practice!
Michelle Chan, Seattle, WA, Sports Management
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
4 year Division 1 Collegiate Rower, CrossFit Kettlebell Certified.
It provided a very clear and concise explanation of each fundamental RKC movement from the top down. It highlighted the background of each movement and how each ties together. It was extremely enlightening and absolutely invigorated my passion for the kettlebell and what it can bring to our community.
The quality was impeccable and gold standard. Instruction was clear and concise with a bit of humor tossed about. Our team leader and assistants on TEAM ROSS kept us very engaged – gave me very helpful tips. I truly appreciate the emphasis on "subtleties" of each movement.
High level of practical usage. Scope of material is concentrated; definitely not able to get all the subtleties, but the support of the RKC community afterwards will definitely lend to the continued refinement of my kettlebell practices.
Jessica Huthmaker Columbia, SC, Kettlebell Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Powerlifting, fitness, and bodybuilding titles prior to being introduced to kettlebells. Now, kettlebells only! I love seeing my clients and my own life changing for the better the longer we do kettlebells! Initial RKC cert in 2004
Great! Excellent teachers/team leaders.
No comparison. No other cert I have ever attended even comes close to being in the same league.
Orion Dooley, Cranston, RI, UPS Driver
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Quality instruction from very knowledgeable professionals was given.
Amazing! Pavel is an exceptional teacher. His knowledge and ability to fix problems is unequaled. The team leaders were excellent. Each one bringing something new to the table. My team leader "Doc" Hartle was very helpful with his tough love.
Rhonda Dean, Mansfield, OH, Information Technology Manager
This certification training has been amazing. Not only did it test physical strength, but also my mental strength and endurance.
The instructors were very professional and extremely knowledgeable. All seemed to be very helpful and generally seemed to want to make sure we succeeded.
Jenni Hanson, Bettendorf, Iowa, Nurse
A weekend packed full of instruction of technique, practice and evaluation. We received individual attention and instruction whenever needed.
Pavel is a deep well of knowledge and it was amazing to hear each thing had to say. Each of the instructors did a great job at tough love with instruction.
It was extremely well organized and I feel like I was able to increase my knowledge with technique dramatically during this course..
Dennis Evans, The Woodlands, TX
A very well designed class that is light years a head of the times for cutting edge training. Very knowledgeable in human biomechanics with scientific research to back it up. Strong family feeling from instructors to students.
Pavel and all the instructors were very informative and approachable. The strong sense of family and community was very refreshing. No doubt their goal was to improve everyone at this seminar in some very, shape or form.
This class was by far the most informative class that I have attended. All the material is based in science with research to back it up as well as practical application that bring truth to the why’s of what we are doing.
Noel Tenoso, West Linn, Oregon, Physical Therapist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Former Competitive Cyclist (road, velodrome), former runner, college tennis, karate, physical therapist, certified functional movement screen (FMS), certified Mechanical Diagnostic Therapist (Mckenzie Institute), certified Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapist(North American Institute of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy), Orthopedic Certified Specialist(American Physical Therapy Association)
Best training I’ve had on exercises movement analysis. Bering a P.T. I look more at isolated movement but this puts it all together for me at looking at total body movement and stability. This has all levels of application in both clinical and stress realm.
Crystal Kelly, Boone, NC, Program Director – NonProfit
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
None, other than sports (cross country, swimming) almost 20 years ago.
This training is extremely well organized with so much information and practice with the kbs. I feel stronger, both mentally and physically, after this weekend.
I was so impressed with the depth of knowledge of all of the instructors, team leaders, and especially Pavel. It’s so clear that there is a deep commitment and passion that everyone has – it’s contagious! There’s so much to learn I feel like t his training could be a week long just to cover the basics.
Michael O’Brien, Ashburn, VA, Small Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
High school and college football (division III), no other certs at this time but studying for the ISSA PT cert.
Great experience learning techniques and skills from top-notch instructors that were completely accessible to learn from. Great networking with other top-notch athletes, trainers that want to add value to themselves and their clients.
Thought all instructors that taught were great. My team leader, Jeff O’Connor was great. He was strict with the students but always wanted to let us know to have fun and relax. Excellent overall experience with trainers, I have learned to have the upmost respect to the knowledge, experience and teaching ability of Jeff and his team of George and Alise.
Amy Bento Ross, Darien, CT, Fitness Professional/Expert
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HS and College Athlete (Volleyball, Basketball, Softball) Creator and star of 24 home workout DVD's sold on the global market. Star of four "10 Minute Solution" series workout DVD's Certifications - AFPA PT, AFPA Advanced PT, NASM CPT, CPR. Married to RKC Team Leader Phil Ross.
I learned the fundamentals and foundation of kettlebell training. A high level of attention to detail in specific core moves were taught. I was challenged both mentally and physically throughout the weekend. I would be proud to receive the cert based on the "gold" standard of experience this weekend.
I was impressed at the depth of knowledge. There was a high level of integrity shown for not only the subject matter and practice but demanded of us as well. This is what sets RKC apart from others.
There was more depth of movement. Other certs focus on just specific areas of movement without weight stimulus. This cert is physically challenging. Others are not and therefore I don’t walk away with as much. I was put through the motions here and extensive movement. This sets it apart. Repetition and physical and mental challenge. I will retain more here than in other certs.
Allan Stephenson Jr, Upper Marlboro, MD, Strength Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
CSCS, FMS, HKC
It was the most complete and physically challenging certification experience I have had.
Pavel is excellent. He is friendly and a great representative for Dragon Door.
More time for instruction. More time for better adherence to breaks so bathroom and necessary phone calls can be made. If there is a ten minute break and three minutes of it is spent addressing us we have limited time to take care of things.
Rachel Ali, Jersey City, NJ, Physical Therapist
It is the best seminar I have attended so far because it not only improves me personally but I can also use all the principles to help my family and friends and clients.
Mr. Pavel Tsatsouline is someone I have looked forward to see and listen to, and he didn’t disappoint me. He was very knowledgeable on his topic but presented himself humbly and reachable and understandable to me. You didn’t have to be a person with a science degree to understand what he was talking about despite trying to explain and present scientific principles. It has been an honor to meet him.
The RKC training is by far the best seminar I have attended, amongst a lot of other physical therapy courses and seminars I have attended. Most PT courses are a waste of time and money because the lecturer just reads off from the book or a speech and almost all attendees get sleepy whereas RKC is presentation and application. Application is active participation of attendees. I never had a single moment where I felt sleepy.
Carrie Walker, Fuquay-Varina, NC,
My experience of the Russian Kettlebell Certification training gave me a better respect for myself. Through this training, I experienced and realized how far I have come since the first day I picked up a kettlebell. I have so much pride in myself as a result of kettlebells.
This is by far the best organized training event I have ever experienced not only in the fitness world but at a corporate level. I felt very welcome. There was not a time where I felt rushed if I did not understand something or felt degraded for my lack of knowledge. I enjoyed the emphasis on safety and loved the camaraderie.
This is my very first certification, yet I have been to several seminars on running and nutrition. Everyone was knowledgeable, professional, well organized and respectful. I loved the structure and enjoyed the use of time with out being rushed.
Todd Hitchcock, Catonsville MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
BS. Exercise Science, NSCA – CSCS, FMS, HKC
The RKC has a unique way of challenging you to your limits and beyond. Not just physically, but mentally as well. A true test of oneself!
I was very impressed. These guys are all world-class experts on kettlebell training. Every instructor was very knowledgeable on all aspects of skills, techniques and training methodology.
Nothing comes close. HKC was one day of basic instruction – still good. But RKC was three full, intensive days packed with information and practice.
Cullen McDonald, Albuquerque, NM, Firefighter
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
State champion in wrestling, all-state in football and track in high school. Competitor in Firefighter Combat Challenge World Championships (2003). Won 2005 Grappler’s Quest in Las Vegas, NV. Two-Time winner in Rumble in the Rio, police vs. firefighter boxing matches 2007-2008. HKC certified 2010. Wrestling and Football coach in 2001. Background in MMA style fighting. Instructor in Albuquerque Fire Academy in 2007. Training as a HKC for past year. Z-Health Essentials certification. MMA submission wrestling under Greg Jackson,
There is no better training or teachers, they back all statements and instruction with proven scientific research.
Elisa Mailman, New York, NY, investment analyst
The training was amazing. I was on team Ross and our three instructors were knowledgeable, thoughtful and when needed, critical. I felt myself improving all weekend, which I attributed to them. They were able to tweak little things, which helped tremendously. I am not a personal trainer, so this was my first (my trainer is RKC II and challenged me to do it). But the quality, scope of material and practical use was fantastic. I can take all of this home and make my workouts more precise, stronger and hopefully more enjoyable.
Derek Lahti, Neenah, WI, Functional Training/Kettlebell Gym Owner & Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
6 months of TaeKwon Do, Lifetime interest of martial arts, little experience with Wu Style Tai Chi, Bachleors Degree in Exercise Science, CSCS Certified, Trained under Level II RKC trainer for past year, Opened own gym Oct 2010.
An intense training both mentally and physically in the proper training of kettlebells. Proper breakdown of the movements to better understand safety and strength.
Quality was in depth. They freely shared this knowledge on techniques to better perform a movement. This information will be able to be directly incorporated into my kettlebell instruction and own training.
Fred Mindach, Murfreesboro, TN, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Served 5 Years in the United States Navy, supporting Iraqi freedom. Been a personal Trainer for 9 years. I have moved to exploring a lot of bodyweight movements. Hold a degree from the University of Hawaii, Hold an ACE-cpt and AFAA-cpt currently
It is has been every mentally and physically challenging course that has a return of a hundred times. It helps you get past barriers that push through every aspect of your life. One of the most rewarding certifications I have even ben to.
It is by far the best collection of minds and experience I have had the pleasure to be a part of, it is quality instruction that is very personalized even though it was in a bog group. That only happens with top tier instruction.
The attention to detail is unparalleled. No other course I have taken goes near into the depth of training than this.
Sergio Perez, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
IMS Certified, Y-Balance Test Certified
Pavel and the team leaders are greatly knowledgeable. They pushed you and corrected and showed you different ways to viewing kb training, corrections and life lesson. It’s knowledge they have built up through years of practice but one weekend only gives you a fraction of what they can teach.
Russian KB certification is in a world of it’s own! Nothing gets your heart racing like bks. From a running background, the only thing that gets me that working this hard is sprints and your body can only do that for short sports. kb’s allow you to train full body in the same intensity as sprints!!
Cap O'Rourke, Minneapolis, MN
It is a physically demanding yet technically focused training that transfers knowledge of kb to others so that they are prepared to teach.
I have had little training but the attention to detail and building on a base of knowledge was impressive.
Victor Selvaggi, Ellicott City, MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
AFPA, FMS, NSPA, HKC
Hand work and dedication to one system equals great results. Sharpening the sword! A large variety of backgrounds and knowledge, all under one roof. The instructors were professional and dedicated to the cause.
Roxanne Altmeyer, Minneapolis, MN, Hairstylist/RKC
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
RKC
I’m re-certing. I now understand why there is a need to come back to this place every 2 years. I have refined my skills/moves 10x overs. The certification gets better and better.
Steph Woods, Cedar Lake, IN, Fitness Coach
Was a great learning experience. The training was intense but not unbearable. All the instructors are amazing and really know what they are talking about and now how to help your form.
Besides where I train I have no other experience of training. But because of the workouts I do at home it helped prepare me for the RKC and my coach also Angela Romas helped prepare mentally.
Paul Gorman, Evansville, IN, ATC, PTA, CSCS
Top Notch. No comparison. The HKC/RKC should be a part of elite level certification programs for all strength and conditioning certs.
Vince Gabriele, Berkeley Heights, NJ, Owner and trainer at Gabriele fitness
It helps people/trainers understand how important it is to be strong. It helps us understand how the human body moves and how it shouldn’t. It helps us understand what needs to be stable and what needs to be mobile in order to be healthy.
The hands on aspect was huge. Most certs are just from books. This you have to prove you can perform the drills yourself and also be able to coach someone through them.
I thought everyone was helpful and gave consistent feedback on certain coaching cues. I felt everyone was on the same page in regards to the coaching cues that were given. The quality of training was outstanding and taught me that anyone can get strong and everyone should be strong.
Gary Herman, Springfield, MO, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
FMS level 1; SFMA level 1, certified athletic trainer (ATC)
After going through Brandon Hetzler’s, RKC, CK-FMS training for six months I thought I fixed most of my bad habits. The RKC exposed those habits I thought I fixed and rebuilt my techniques. The RKC is a long, high volume certification, but done in a manor to control fatigue and still get quality/RKC standard reps.
Hard to put into words. You can see the different level of knowledge each leader brings to the table. You can tell these people live for RKC and practice it on a daily basis. There is one thing to know how to do a skill, but it is totally different to be able to teach it to different people and have everyone understand.
RKC has a reason to what it is doing. All through life coaches tell me to do something, but they don’t have a reason. RKC explains everything in a manner that easy to understand.
Linsey Smith, Springfield, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
FMS level 1; SFMA level 1, certified athletic trainer (ATC), PES.
After my training I thought I had fixed my bad habits. This course was intense and made me realize there is always work to be done.
This weekend was exceptional! My knowledge was greatly improved by the staff. They were professional and detailed in their instruction.
This training was more intense than anything I have gone through. The material is greatly beneficial to me for my profession. I will be able to apply these exercises to improve the quality of my athletes.
Jen Codutti, Springfield, MO, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Marathon, half marathons, trail running. ATC, FMS, HKC
It is probably the most intense training and seminar I have attended. I am already using many of the ideas and techniques in my own work setting.
Rowena Litao, Mansfield, OH, Homemaker
My endurance and strength levels were tested to my maximum limits. It is imperative to train hard for one year before coming to RKC training. Most importantly, is to keep my focus at doing perfect techniques for each form, in spite of the grueling training drills and workouts for the whole weekend. Staying mentally alert at the tine of execution is a must.
Justin Lindley Plano, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
USSCA National and Iowa State Champion (1992), NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (2007), Associates Degree in Physical Therapy (1995), and HKC Certified (2010)
How strength is enhanced by mobility. Developing a more resilient person.
When I think Pavel and RKC I think quality. That was just reinforced this weekend.
Pavel and the whole RKC team keep the integrity of RKC and the kettlebell. They are proud and protective of it. Not so with all certs.
Heather Dayton, Maplewood, MN, Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
In the Fitness Industry for 15+ years. Professional Certifications/Training include: HKC,Spinning, NETA cpt, TRX, Zumba, with a strong interest in core, corrective exercise, chronic pain disorders, physical and cardiac rehab.
Honored to be a part of this training experience. It was difficult but rewarding. I have gained insight and knowledge that I know will impact my own personal/physical development as well as my clients.
By far RKC has provided in a short 3-day time span more information and practical training experience than any other certification. Thank you. I respect the strict requirements for certifications!
Benjamin M. Bulera, Woodbury, MN, Student
As a college student I face instruction, and lectures every day. It is apparent that the RKC holds a standard of expectation for all team leaders to be elite in knowledge as well as strength. Thank you!
James Croteau, McComb MS, Personal Trainer HKC
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, BJJ Blue Belt 1st Stripe under Carlos Machado
Very informative. Tests your ability to endure hard workouts but at the same time shows you how to endure better.
I’ve practiced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a couple of years. And the same kind of discipline is there. The scope of material is there and also the practical use is a little more than BJJ.
All over great experience. Very informative. I will definitely be training in a different way for now on..
Roy Bocina, East Northport, NY, Police Officer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Prior US Army, Current Police Officer, Sandan American Jiu Jitsu, Guro Pekiti Tirsia
Was a good experience, very good instruction.
St. Paul April 2011 Russian Kettlebell Challenge Certification Workshop—Participant Praise
William T Sadler, Bountiful, UT, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
M.D., Pulmonary and Internal Medicine
Anyone can improve strength, endurance, flexibility and sense of well being by the approach used in the course:
- Baseline assessment;
- Development of skills and strength in incremental steps with careful instruction and feedback;
- Achievement of clearly defined goals.
Pavel is without peer: His ability to break down skills into small parts for the student to absorb; his ability to spot and correct problems; the overall design of the program as a cohesive whole. I know of no similar person My team leader Mark Toomey has been and continues to be a great help in reaching my goals. His instruction is clear, focused and helpful. He is never derogatory. Over several RKC events he has become a valued friend.
I’ve attended one non-RKC event that was horrible. This RKC cert was the polar opposite.
Molly Bird, Omaha, NE, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Assistant Department Head, Personal Training, HKC, NASM CPT, Metabolic Technician (VO2 testing)
The staff is amazing. RKC is a respected group of elite fitness professionals that I would be extremely proud to be a part of. The process is organized, fast-paced, challenging and very educational. The weak need not enlist.
Amazing. When they spoke, I listened. It’s also amazing how they are so good at what they do – while also being good public speakers. The quality of these instructors and their professionalism cannot be matched by any other organization.
Thank you for the opportunity and experience., I am a better trainer just for attending. Andrea Du Cane is an inspiration. I have so much respect for her, she is a great role model. I am honored to have been in her group. Pavel is amazing; I have so much to learn from him. I am registering for RKC II is I pass.
John Du Cane’s marketing lecture was great. It was useful, informative and eye opening. It may have helped me make a very important professional change in my life. It was motivating, and I found myself getting emotional at times.
Patrick Kolashinski, DC, Hudson, WI
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Trained for Tri’s for years, years ago. Dabbled with martial arts and boxing.
It was one of those life-changing events that some of us, who live life, are lucky enough to experience.
Gretchen Summerville, Boone, NC, Mom/Health Educator/Student
Not only has attending the RKC training changed my life, using kettlebells has helped me to overcome a chronic (10 year) shoulder injury, transformed my body and helped me to tap into and awaken the inner warrior inside of me. Having gone through a tough divorce and hardest two years of my life, turns out the timing of the RKC training was not the worst but the best!
Of course Pavel is a genius. Not only is he an impeccable specimen of human strength but also a brilliant teacher with the ability to really speak to everyone at all levels in every subject matter. Although there are probably 150 plus people at this training, Pavel spoke to me, addressed me byname, and offered helpful advice on numerous occasions. Not only a sign of a great teacher, but a kind hearted human being. I cannot say enough about Cortez, Sonnie and Tim, my team leader and assistants. I literally would not have been able to come this far without them. Not only their constant constructive critique, but complete kindness, understanding and absolute attention to safety, made this one of the most incredible experiences of my life. They did not have to go above and beyond, but they did, and I will be forever grateful!
Mike Huffam, New Zealand, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Personal training since 1998, NASM Certified PT, Les Mills Body Trainer, Personal Trainer of the year 2005, 2008
I have been kettlebell training for five years and this has taken my skills to a whole new level. Any kettlebell practicing people out there wondering whether this is worth it? Without a doubt! 100% absolutely!
I felt absolutely privileged to bee on Andrea’s team. Great coaching skills, great knowledge (assistants were also great). Andrea didn’t ramble on, but what she said was well worth listening to. I hope to work with her in the future. Pavel was fantastic – knowledge of the human body was unparalleled in my training life so far (started in 1998). Not to mention his kettlebell skills were amazing. The other senior instructors and team leaders were also very highly skilled. I leave here a way better kettlebell practitioner than when I arrived. Thank you all.
Without doubt, at the top of my pile. Kettlebells, instructor manual, quality within the manual, how the information was delivered and how much information – unbelievable!
Overall – loved it and coming from Auckland, NZ was well worth it. Thanks Dragon Door.
Jason Manous, Athens, GA, Engineer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC
It was very difficult but such intense knowledge should be earned through trial and practice. Probably the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
I’m unsure what to say except "incredible". The level of expertise at this workshop was immense; every aspect of Hardstyle was represented and presented in such a way as to pull all the parts together into one piece.
Overall I found this experience immensely rewarding – I wouldn’t take it back for all the tea in China. This is by far the best workshop of its kind.
Shawn Reed
Tt far exceeded my expectations and expanded my knowledge base of how to be a better or the best kettlebell instructor. The RKC has proven that it is more than a kettlebell certification; it is committed to strength and power.
Michele Neil Tulsa OK, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Martial Arts- 1st degree black belt/Tae-kwon-do, Brown belt/Judo • Bodybuilding/weight lifting-enjoy - multiple competitions- NPC Masters Nationals-Pittsburg May 2007 Opens Womens Heavy Weight 1st, NPC USA’s-Vegas July 2007 Open Women’s Heavy Weight 1st • HKC
This outstanding athletic/academic experience has potentiated the ability for me to redirect the scope of my medical practice. :) Thank you.
- Outstanding
- Solid
- Impeccable
- Committed
- Reproducible
- Organized
- Friendly
- Passionate
- Engaging
- Timely
- High Standard
- Entertaining
- Reflective
- Imaginative
- Superb
- Powerful
- Hardcore
- Inspiring
- And much much more.
Luke Wilson, San Francisco, CA, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I.S.S.A. certified, Exercise Science, HKC, Certified in Plyometrics, PNF / ART / AIS stretching, Functional Training, Dumbbell Training, Body Weight Training, Sports specific training, Myofacia release.
Yoga instructor, boot camp instructor, aqua aerobics instructor, Brazilian jiu jitsu instructor, Muay Thai enthusiast, rock climber, lifestyle coach, sandbag trainer and fitness model.
Blows all of the workshops and books I’ve read away. Most certs tell you what to do but lack in the why. This program breaks it down in a way you can understand and apply.
Scott Poirier, Dudley, MA, Electrical Engineer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certified, US Navy Seabee, Second degree brown belt, kensho ryu kempo karate, trained for 2 years with Carols Terrinha Team Draculino Gracie Barra, Currently training in the Gracie Combatives Program.
The training was top notch. I’ve never seen such professionalism, knowledge and strength under one roof. The training was very tough, but when it was said and done, it was worth it.
Pavel is incredibly knowledgeable on all levels of strength and conditioning. It’s not only the vast amount of knowledge e that he has with kettlebells, but also how he connects all his knowledge to all type of movement, especially martial arts. The Sr. Instructors and the Team Leaders were awesome. Very professional, patient and helpful with teaching the kettlebell techniques and quick to make correction if needed.
Simona Boler, Maplewood, MN, Massage Therapist & Child Care Provider
The RKC has really challenged my physically and mentally but most importantly it has affected me as to who I am. I have gained skill, knowledge, confidence and respect for myself.
The quality is superior and Pavel, Instructors and Team Leaders are all passionate about what they do and it is conveyed in a way that is tough and respectful in order for us (the students) to succeed and learn.
The RKC has really been one of the best thing I have one for myself. Not just in terms of strength and knowledge but I am a mother of 4 girls and have always been the mom that does everything for my family and with kettlebells and RKC I have found myself again.
I am a better mother, wife and person. I have gained confidence, knowledge and a sense of purpose that has been lacking in my life. Everything I have learned here this weekend in some form will trickle down into every aspect of my life. Thanks Pavel and Dragon Door for all that kettlebells have given me. Just want to add that I have lost nearly 25lbs, over 20+ inches and gained more than 10lbs of muscle using KBs for the past year and a half.
Lou Argenzio, Avon, MA, Health Club Owner, Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, NSCA CPT
This was an extremely challenging and thorough course. It makes you stronger both mentally and physically. Outstanding! This course was not just about kettlebells, it was about movement and how to use the skills to improve it. These techniques will help anyone become more connected to their bodies.
This is the best training I’ve been to by far. It is a great combination of information, practical application and skill.
Aaron Vice, Chicago, IL, Personal Training Manager, Fitness Consultant
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
ACSM - CPT
My body is full of pain and my mind is full of knowledge. Quality of training was excellent. Team leaders were knowledgeable and approachable.
Piers Kwan - Brisbane , Australia, School Chaplain and Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Certificate IV in Personal Training, Diploma of Youth Work, Bachelor of Theology.
The instruction was thorough and well thought out. There was a great balance between up front teaching, practice, and practical troubleshooting. I flew halfway around the world for this certification, away from my family and friends and I can say without a doubt that it was worth that and more!
Fantastic. Without a doubt there is no other kettlebell organization – and maybe no other fitness group that can offer the caliber of instructors and training we received this week.
By far the best. Blows the others out of the water in quality, scope and particularly practical use.
Rosalia Chann, Brooklyn, NY, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Professional Contemporary Ballet Dancer
The RKC community opens arms to all that are here. More than willing to help and share invaluable techniques and information. The knowledge and lessons that I’ve gained here will help me in all aspects of life. (Respect, Discipline, Dedication, Strength)
It was worth every penny, I improved so much over the past three days and gained knowledge that will last me a lifetime. I am looking forward to taking other courses in the future to continue expanding my knowledge.
They were all excellent and so helpful. I learned/ improved so much while under their instruction. The training and knowledge was in depth and invaluable. I like that you must earn this. They don’t let any mistakes slide by. They are stern and strict, but very encouraging when making corrections. It was a great experience.
It’s the best. No other courses I have taken have been this in depth and hands on with individual attention to each student. I now have a greater understanding in how to practice myself and what should be done when coaching others.
Andrea Nichols-Everett, Chicago, IL, Fitness and Nutrition, Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, AFAA- group fitness, NESTA – personal trainer, Zumba Instructor
Pavel is amazing! Just amazing. It was an honor to be in the same room with him.
This was by far the hardest training I have ever completed- physically. The marketing presentation was a wonderful bonus you normally do not get. Lots of material presented but not overwhelming at all.
Thank you for the opportunity to be here. I have learned so much. I am better at kettlebells because of this course.
Aaron Baulch, Tulsa, OK, Owner: Deep Development Studio
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I have been in the health and fitness industry for more than 20 years. After spending many of those years as a competitive body builder, my focus now lies in deepening my yoga practice and learning movement with the kettlebell.
The course from start to finish has truly been an incredible experience. The amount of material covered has been amazing. I look forward to digesting it, putting it into practice and coming back for more!! Thanks to all at Dragon Door.
One again, the amount of information covered has been amazing. All of the instructors are incredibly well prepared and qualified to be in the positions they are in. the RKC is the gold standard of the strength/functional movement group and it shows with al those involved. Thanks again.
The complete program has been excellent. I have been a part of the fitness industry for over 20 years and this course definitely rates at the top of all that I have taken part in. This has been an awesome experience!!!
Marc Morris, Lisbon, IA, Direct Sales
A lot of information, packed into 3 days. Learned to simplify my training to be able to convey that to the clients back home. Grueling training, but very satisfying from a content stand point.
Pavel put many of the cues and subtleties in very easy to understand terms. He helped with many examples and answered questions I had before I even asked them.
The most intense training I have ever experienced. Quality was second to none. Lost of material to digest, but excellent manual to revisit after leaving here. Very practical exercises that can be taken home and used with clients.
Great use of time and materials covered – workouts were fantastic – no changes needed – a fantastic experience!
Ben Poss, Vancouver, Canada, personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
I've been a personal trainer, running my own business for the past 6 years. I used to compete in amateur boxing when I was younger and won the golden gloves a couple of times. I've been training with kettlebells for the past year or so since getting my HKC and have been a member of CrossFit Vancouver for the past year and a half.
This has definitely been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. It has also been one of the most enjoyable and the things I’ve learned will definitely make me a better athlete and trainer.
I was very impressed by the instruction. From Pavel, to the presenters, to my team leader and asst instructors, they were all awesome. Very knowledgeable and were able to correct a lot of my weaknesses.
This was by far the most intense certification I have ever attended. The focus on detail and from, the level of integrity, the high standards and the snatch test have made this my favorite cert to date.
All in all this has been a fantastic experience and I am definitely proud to say that I am now a member of the RKC family!!!
Josh Renkens, Nashville, TN, Chiropractor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
DC, MA Ed, ART, MAT, CSCS
It is a top-notch organization providing quality, useful instruction. Their attention to detail and professionalism is something I have not experienced with other certifications.
Pavel and Jeff O’Connor and Andrew Read stood out for me. I enjoyed working with my team leader – Michel Hartle – very much. I enjoyed his sense of humor and appreciated his knowledge and high standards of instruction.
The quality of instruction was excellent. I most certainly appreciated the attention to detail.
Great job to the entire RKC team. Thank you for providing a fantastic experience.
Kellen Milad, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NASM-CES Certified, specializes in kettlebell and bodyweight training
The RKC experience, to me, is characterized by the relentless pursuit of knowledge. All to often we encounter people and situations that are complacent. The RKC has shown me there is a community out there of people that want to get better and want to impact the world with positive change.
The training was excellent. A thorough review of comprehensive material published by Dragon Door delivered in a simplistic, minimalist approach. Through this simplicity we can then become aware of the depth and complexity of everything we learned and process (the info) at our own pace and to whatever depth we desire.
This was by far the most well organized and comprehensive workshop I have ever attended. I have been working with kbs for 2 years and directly with an RKC, but his experience was irreplaceable.
Tracey Macri, Latham, NY, Central Office Technician
They are a wonderful group of professionals who are "over the top" passionate about kettlebells. The camaraderie that you experience when attending is like no other. If you want to get the skills you need for self growth or to show others, this is where you need to do it.
I’m sure all has been said before, but Pavel has this incredible aura about him. When he speaks, he commands attention. He is so knowledgeable and I guess I didn’t think anything less. My instructors Neghar and Jeff were incredible. They had many suggestions and really took the time to be sooo… attentive. Mark Toomey was great also, what a sense of humor and a calming force. He made you feel relaxed and stopped us form sweating over the small stuff.
Wannika Henderson, Alban, NY, Service Manager
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Crossfit Level I Certified
This certification training has been the most educational and satisfying training I have been to. The way each movement is broken down and simplified into basic steps contributes to significant understanding. It helps me feel more confident in being able to impact this knowledge on to others and in the correct manner in which it was taught to me.
The quality of training was excellent. The way everyone is consistent in their message and how it relates to everyday life is very valuable. The passion is seen during every moment review. The quality was of the highest level.
It truly has been the best. In other trainings, you do not receive the applicable uses for everyday life and you do here. RKC talks and emphasizes fundamental care basics which help in every other movement you do.
George Koupatadze, Chicago, IL, Software Testing, Personal Training
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Martial Arts training, NESTA personal trainer, CrossFit Level 1 trainer + a few CrossFit specialty certifications
The training was incredible. The instruction was top notch. The attention to detail by the team leaders and instructors was amazing. it helped me in many ways to become a better athlete and trainer.
The Dragon Door staff was amazing. Pavel provided very deep insights into the art and science of training. The team leaders were knowledgeable and helpful. They were very encouraging as well. I appreciated their efforts very much.
The RKC cert was by far the best and fullest certification seminar in terms of quality, scope of material and practical use.
Christina Leo, Nashville, TN, Database Developer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certification, May 2010, Before discovering kettlebells, I completed six half marathons, two sprint triathlons, and numerous 5-Ks.
I have grown and changed in ways I never imagined in the past 16 months. I hope to be swinging a kettlebell well into my nineties. OUTSTANDING! I was well impressed with all the team members and assistant RKCs with whom I worked. Not only were they all more than willing to help and share their knowledge, it was clear to me that they are passionate about this discipline.
The RKC was everything I expected it to be in terms of quality and depth of training, as well as high standards and integrity. I feel very comfortable teaching others to begin their kettlebell practice safely and with fun.
Brady Jones, McComb, MS, Teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Instructor
This certification training has given me a vast amount of additional tools I can implement with my clients and friends. It has provided more than I could have ever thought in three days. This is the definite turning point in my training.
I believe I just got three days of the most powerful and informational packed instruction on the planet from the best. All leaders expressed what they expected at all times and were direct.
I’ve never been comfortable with safety in physical exercise till now. I can take this instruction into my training immediately.
Michael Morris, Acworth, GA, Teacher
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
High School Football Coach, HKC certified, Level 1 Sports Performance Coach certified USAW
The RKC experience is tough, professional, and extremely thorough in its teaching of HardStyle Kettlebell strength training.
The instructional team was outstanding. The depth of knowledge and understanding was apparent and the professionalism displayed by all instructors was impressive.
Top notch I am certified in Olympic weight lifting through USA weightlifting and this workshop blows it away. Because of the physical testing, practice, and program design this workshop deepens the understanding of not only how to do the lifts, but also why you should use kettlebells and their benefits.
Dawne Taylor, Summit, MS, HKC Instructor
It was pain. Preparing for and the actually three days of the RKC training has pushed me harder physically, mentally, and emotionally than I have ever experienced before.
A whole lot more than I could obtain in a lifetime. Exceptional to say the least.
Achilles Litao, Mansfield, OH, Physician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
American Board of Pediatrics
Akin to a spiritual awakening. Exercise suddenly made sense.
Pavel’s presence by itself is the main experience most specially if one has read his book(s). His manner of imparting information is outstanding, a gifted teacher. I was under Mark Toomey’s team. I am impressed by the way Mark handled the topics oat hand. He adjusts the way he presents materials according to the level of understanding of the listener. Most especially I picked up significant aspects form the TGU from Mark that I haven’t encountered or might have missed in the books that I have read about the GU. Truly, Mark has provided a lot of insights not mentioned in the lectures.
Steph Hoeper, North Liberty, IA, Fitness instructor/personal trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
College basketball and softball. Recreational runner. Former teacher, basketball, track, and cross country coach. Currently hold ACE personal trainer and group fitness instructor certifications.
I was sick to my stomach with nervous anticipation for this course. Once I met my team and team leaders, the true excitement set in. I love the community and the vast knowledge made available to us.
Highest quality I’ve had in a fitness workshop. I am a fact and stat junkie – loved the info; proof and explanation of why we do what we do – because that’s what I want to be able to give my clients when I go home. I love the high standard of the RKC because it gives it value to me and to others to know I EARNED it (hopefully :) ). I also really appreciated Mark Toomey’s ability to make it all real instead of building up pressure. He, Neghar, and Jeff were excellent at building confidence while providing us with ways to constantly improve. I appreciated the one on one persistence especially with tweaking my swing. (Which I thought I had tweaked at my HKC). I feel much more confident, smooth and athletic in my kettlebell skills.
Beyond any ACE certified course I’ve attended in all areas.
Chris Reynolds, Bloomington, IL, Firefighter/Paramedic
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Military Police Corrections Officer (Army 1994-1997), IL Department of Corrections Correctional Officers (1998-2006), Professional Firefighter/Paramedic (2006-Current)
I came to realize that it is the series of little things that when added up can make all the difference in t technique and performance. Instructors were super and very helpful. I look forward to returning to my department and teaching my fellow fireman correct use of kettlebells.
I was very impressed with the quality of instruction. Every instructor had the goal of making us better.
RKC was more concise and to the point. No Fluff!
Greg Gorecki, Hinckley, OH, Sales
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Black Belt in Kenpo, Trained in Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido
A tough love approach to testing your discipline, safety, endurance and strength. A great experience for the not faint of heart!
Excellent knowledge on all instructors parts especially Pavel. Their insight was top-notch! I learned so much more about kettlebells and their usage!
Above and by far the most intense physically and the most mentally nurturing seminar I have been to.
Brandon Sallee, Columbus, OH, Army Infantry Officer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Active Duty National Guard Infantry Officer with various athletic endeavors including track, semi professional football. Airborne Ranger qualified, Military Mountaineer qualified and Iraqi Freedom veteran. HKC qualified in Jan 2011 in Columbus, Ohio.
The RKC training cert has opened my eyes to the simple yet highly sophisticated world of utilizing the kettlebell as a tool of strength that travels the whole spectrum of physical culture.
They are all professionals who bring their expertise form their fields and apply it to the RKC system. They all bring a flavor and give something you never though of before.
It has a militaristic quality down to the true attention to detail. It was a tough physical weekend that still allowed motor pattern development.
Trevor Frampton, Devon, PA, Fitness Director Club LA Maison.
A higher standard was set by getting instruction from multiple RKC instructors. I realized that the wealth of knowledge in this community is greater than I ever realized. I will train harder and smarter than ever before.
Wonderful instruction and extension of knowledge. It feels like we are joining a family. We are joining a family that has knowledge to back it up and will make a great impact on the entire world.
Outstanding! The knowledge is very expansive and diverse. It’s nice to see continual development in techniques and strategy.
Patrick McCarthy Kennebunk, ME, Strength Coach/ Fitness Specialist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
NSCA CSCS, HKC, Functional Movement Screen Certified, College Baseball
Wealth of knowledge slammed into 3 days. High repletion of the basic movements made the learning process easier.
Top of the industry. All presenters are extremely knowledgeable and showed us different teaching styles.
Aaron Pierson, Fort Collins CO, Emergency Medical Technician
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, Level 4 Krav Maga practitioner.
A realization on how kb’s have changed so many lives, from so many walks of life.
The RKC workshop has been one of the most physically and mentally challenges I have experienced. I will walk away stronger in every aspect of life.
I found that each instructor has something to teach. Not everybody is created the same or teaches the same. Watching nearly 20+ instructors troubleshoot in various ways taught me a lot. I truly enjoyed the lectures and individual talks with each instructor I spoke with. I also like knowing that each instructor must pass the same test I do before the workshop begins.
The hand on instruction by far exceeds any training I have encountered.
Sarah Riedl, Minneapolis, MN, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
3 years triathlon/marathon experience, including one Ironman-distance triathlon, NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer since 2005, Specialist in Active Isolated Stretching (the Mattes method) since 2005
It is a great combination of listening and actually doing, in a way that makes kettlebells easy to understand. It certainly helped refine my technique while explaining why it is so important to be so precise. And it was also a wonderful opportunity to network and become involved in the RKC community.
I appreciated the careful guidance they provided. They were quick to help us spot our mistakes, and very useful in teaching us how to teach others.
The Russian KB Certification Training is far better than any other training I’ve had in physical exercise. With RKC you have to be able to "walk the walk, not just "talk the talk". I’ve actually taken courses that you can study through a video and workbook, with no instructor evaluation at all. RKC provides more information, and better yet, direct feedback from qualified instructors. It is the most thorough certification I’ve taken.
Steve Goldbach, New York, NY, Management Consultant
RKC challenged my body and my intellect. I’m not a trainer but RKC made it more likely that I will have consistent and positive experiences when I train. In essence, RKC showed me what good looks like. Terrific instruction – Jon Engum, Andrew and Val had the right mix of tough love and encouragement.
The knowledge demonstrated was broad and deep. Best part was when the instructors would show the deep connections between the movements to demonstrate how they reinforced each other and built on that same principles.
I’m a white collar guy who just happened to meet an RKC II Instructor (Antonio Cordova) and the training has delivered more results than any other coaching I’ve received. 2.5 years ago I couldn’t do a pull-up; now I do the snatch test in 4:15. I came here as "my marathon".
Actually, I think this was extremely professionally run for the cost. I have attended other (non-fitness) conferences/seminars and the organization and professionalism of this is top notch.
Marion Ingram, Nashville, TN, Banking
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC Certified
Mental strength – there comes a point at which you have to make a decision – Am I weak or am I strong. KB and the RKC has a way of challenging you physically and mentally. A good instructor is both and the RKC offers every opportunity during certification for you to decide – the choice is yours.
Respect – I’ve heard many fitness certifications are more bookwork and tests – why would you want an instructor who can’t do the moves correctly on their own? RKC has set a standard for all their instructor and the level of respect comes for knowing the extreme amount of physical tests the instructors are put through. You don’t "pay" for their type of certification, you "earn" it.
Loved my team leader – Du Pain! And Josh Hillis and Dustin Miller – awesome team leader assistants.
No comparison. I’ve worked with other fitness instructors and it wasn’t until I worked with an RKC did I know I was squatting incorrectly. I can’t believe I was doing it wrong for so long, but I’m grateful I found an RKC instructor to correct it. Now I know I’m doing it correctly and won’t hurt myself.
Jeremy Bowman, Richmond, VA, Personal Trainer
The course was well planned and put together. From the beginning to the end, it flowed from one aspect (movement) to the next, to finish with an understanding of how each works to better the other movement.
The quality of Pavel was outstanding. I got to get some personal attention from him and through this corrected some issues that I was having with my squat. He cleared up a lot of questions and head banging against the wall on why certain techniques were not working. The quality of the Senior Instructors was outstanding; lots of combined knowledge and ideas that when used together helped very much. The Team Leaders were very knowledgeable and constantly trouble shooting to make everyone better.
This has been one of the most intense as well as the most hands on style of teaching (training). The quality has been the best in terms of physical exercise and on par if not better on the knowledge. The scope of the material is well thought out and put together.
Steve Fillbrandt, St. Louis Park, MN. None
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, Krav Maga student
The RKC helped me strengthen what was right, improve what was wrong, and showed me many of the varied, though correct, techniques that work with different body types.
Even if I did not receive a teaching certificate, this weekend of training is worth about a year of kettlebell classes (and I am not denigrating kb classes when I say that).
Beth Ehrmann, Colorado Springs, CO, Owner of The Wrecking Bell- a strength and conditioning gym in Colorado Springs, CO
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Marine, former police officer, Krav Maga practitioner, HKC
Invaluable training. From corrective drills to marketing ideas, everything "made sense". There was no exercise, no lecture, no tip that I felt was a waste of time. So much knowledge in one room – three days well spent!
Seeing these guys in person, putting their knowledge to use to sometimes. Literally, transforming a person’s form and skill level was impressive. Their willingness to lessen and help never wavered. The positive "can do will do" attitudes were always there. Great experience.
Kristina Chang, Sunnyvale, CA
Wish I could do this every weekend!
Every single instructor I met this weekend was knowledgeable, professional, consistent and engaging.
Robin Arnone, Woodbine, MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
19 years of personal training, Pilates Cert. FMS, Certified, HKC Cert.
I truly enjoyed being around such dedicated and knowledgeable instructors. You would never know that the asst. did this on a volunteer basis. They were very helpful and approachable. The instructors seemed truly interested and dedicated to my learning.
For the most part I was very surprised at how humble the instructors were. I was surrounded by such great athletes and such great knowledge but no egos. I didn’t feel like the instructors were trying to intimidate you. I felt welcomed into the RKC community.
The take home material is def. superior. With exception to the FMS class/cert., no other certification seems as professional or put together. The RKC has made a great name/reputation for itself and I am proud to be a part of it.
Sean Leffler, Los Alamos, NM, Embedded Software Developer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Tae Kwon Do, AFAA PT Cert
I only thought I knew how to swing. :)
A terrific group. The breadth and depth of knowledge you gain is invaluable, even if you don’t take it for certification (or don’t pass). My students are in for quite a shock when I get back!
All of my team was very knowledgeable and super helpful. Kind when needed, strict when needed. I would not hesitate to take trainings /courses with tem in the future.
For my (part time job) @ the YMCA, I have to have an AFAA Cert. that cert is practically useless to me as a KB instructor. This RKC Cert is about teaching how to teach, where as the other paper certs are about insurance liability. I hope my YMCA will change its policy about this.
Katherine F Parent, New York, NY, Clinical Research Associate
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
5 years kickboxing, 2 years training in Kettlebells.
A very tough course but well worth the investment. Instruction was stellar and well thought out as techniques we learned in class the first day were used as building blocks for the instruction on the second day. Course is very well organized and team leader a wonderful instructor! (Andrea)
If I can one day swing the way Pavel does, I will be a very happy woman! Until then, I plan to train very hard to hopefully got close! He made sit look very easy! All jokes aside, I learned a lot from Pavel and his presentations. The way he presents his material is well organized and thought out. Andrea really spent time to help me achieve much more than I thought possible.
JP Martinez, Albuquerque NM, Flight Paramedic
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Firefighter/Paramedic with Albuquerque fire department, Involved in plenty sports throughout life with experience coaching high school basketball years ago. Most certifications related to fire service and medical services.
The training was a success to me mentally and physically made possible by very knowledgeable practitioners of kettlebell and movement training.
Pavel is brilliant in books and even better in person. All personnel bring his same spirit to teaching.
No comparison. Efficient training compared to mindless exertion.
Thank you to all that helped bring this opportunity to my life and practice!
Michelle Chan, Seattle, WA, Sports Management
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
4 year Division 1 Collegiate Rower, CrossFit Kettlebell Certified.
It provided a very clear and concise explanation of each fundamental RKC movement from the top down. It highlighted the background of each movement and how each ties together. It was extremely enlightening and absolutely invigorated my passion for the kettlebell and what it can bring to our community.
The quality was impeccable and gold standard. Instruction was clear and concise with a bit of humor tossed about. Our team leader and assistants on TEAM ROSS kept us very engaged – gave me very helpful tips. I truly appreciate the emphasis on "subtleties" of each movement.
High level of practical usage. Scope of material is concentrated; definitely not able to get all the subtleties, but the support of the RKC community afterwards will definitely lend to the continued refinement of my kettlebell practices.
Jessica Huthmaker Columbia, SC, Kettlebell Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Powerlifting, fitness, and bodybuilding titles prior to being introduced to kettlebells. Now, kettlebells only! I love seeing my clients and my own life changing for the better the longer we do kettlebells! Initial RKC cert in 2004
Great! Excellent teachers/team leaders.
No comparison. No other cert I have ever attended even comes close to being in the same league.
Orion Dooley, Cranston, RI, UPS Driver
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Quality instruction from very knowledgeable professionals was given.
Amazing! Pavel is an exceptional teacher. His knowledge and ability to fix problems is unequaled. The team leaders were excellent. Each one bringing something new to the table. My team leader "Doc" Hartle was very helpful with his tough love.
Rhonda Dean, Mansfield, OH, Information Technology Manager
This certification training has been amazing. Not only did it test physical strength, but also my mental strength and endurance.
The instructors were very professional and extremely knowledgeable. All seemed to be very helpful and generally seemed to want to make sure we succeeded.
Jenni Hanson, Bettendorf, Iowa, Nurse
A weekend packed full of instruction of technique, practice and evaluation. We received individual attention and instruction whenever needed.
Pavel is a deep well of knowledge and it was amazing to hear each thing had to say. Each of the instructors did a great job at tough love with instruction.
It was extremely well organized and I feel like I was able to increase my knowledge with technique dramatically during this course..
Dennis Evans, The Woodlands, TX
A very well designed class that is light years a head of the times for cutting edge training. Very knowledgeable in human biomechanics with scientific research to back it up. Strong family feeling from instructors to students.
Pavel and all the instructors were very informative and approachable. The strong sense of family and community was very refreshing. No doubt their goal was to improve everyone at this seminar in some very, shape or form.
This class was by far the most informative class that I have attended. All the material is based in science with research to back it up as well as practical application that bring truth to the why’s of what we are doing.
Noel Tenoso, West Linn, Oregon, Physical Therapist
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Former Competitive Cyclist (road, velodrome), former runner, college tennis, karate, physical therapist, certified functional movement screen (FMS), certified Mechanical Diagnostic Therapist (Mckenzie Institute), certified Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapist(North American Institute of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy), Orthopedic Certified Specialist(American Physical Therapy Association)
Best training I’ve had on exercises movement analysis. Bering a P.T. I look more at isolated movement but this puts it all together for me at looking at total body movement and stability. This has all levels of application in both clinical and stress realm.
Crystal Kelly, Boone, NC, Program Director – NonProfit
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
None, other than sports (cross country, swimming) almost 20 years ago.
This training is extremely well organized with so much information and practice with the kbs. I feel stronger, both mentally and physically, after this weekend.
I was so impressed with the depth of knowledge of all of the instructors, team leaders, and especially Pavel. It’s so clear that there is a deep commitment and passion that everyone has – it’s contagious! There’s so much to learn I feel like t his training could be a week long just to cover the basics.
Michael O’Brien, Ashburn, VA, Small Business Owner
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
High school and college football (division III), no other certs at this time but studying for the ISSA PT cert.
Great experience learning techniques and skills from top-notch instructors that were completely accessible to learn from. Great networking with other top-notch athletes, trainers that want to add value to themselves and their clients.
Thought all instructors that taught were great. My team leader, Jeff O’Connor was great. He was strict with the students but always wanted to let us know to have fun and relax. Excellent overall experience with trainers, I have learned to have the upmost respect to the knowledge, experience and teaching ability of Jeff and his team of George and Alise.
Amy Bento Ross, Darien, CT, Fitness Professional/Expert
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HS and College Athlete (Volleyball, Basketball, Softball) Creator and star of 24 home workout DVD's sold on the global market. Star of four "10 Minute Solution" series workout DVD's Certifications - AFPA PT, AFPA Advanced PT, NASM CPT, CPR. Married to RKC Team Leader Phil Ross.
I learned the fundamentals and foundation of kettlebell training. A high level of attention to detail in specific core moves were taught. I was challenged both mentally and physically throughout the weekend. I would be proud to receive the cert based on the "gold" standard of experience this weekend.
I was impressed at the depth of knowledge. There was a high level of integrity shown for not only the subject matter and practice but demanded of us as well. This is what sets RKC apart from others.
There was more depth of movement. Other certs focus on just specific areas of movement without weight stimulus. This cert is physically challenging. Others are not and therefore I don’t walk away with as much. I was put through the motions here and extensive movement. This sets it apart. Repetition and physical and mental challenge. I will retain more here than in other certs.
Allan Stephenson Jr, Upper Marlboro, MD, Strength Coach
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
CSCS, FMS, HKC
It was the most complete and physically challenging certification experience I have had.
Pavel is excellent. He is friendly and a great representative for Dragon Door.
More time for instruction. More time for better adherence to breaks so bathroom and necessary phone calls can be made. If there is a ten minute break and three minutes of it is spent addressing us we have limited time to take care of things.
Rachel Ali, Jersey City, NJ, Physical Therapist
It is the best seminar I have attended so far because it not only improves me personally but I can also use all the principles to help my family and friends and clients.
Mr. Pavel Tsatsouline is someone I have looked forward to see and listen to, and he didn’t disappoint me. He was very knowledgeable on his topic but presented himself humbly and reachable and understandable to me. You didn’t have to be a person with a science degree to understand what he was talking about despite trying to explain and present scientific principles. It has been an honor to meet him.
The RKC training is by far the best seminar I have attended, amongst a lot of other physical therapy courses and seminars I have attended. Most PT courses are a waste of time and money because the lecturer just reads off from the book or a speech and almost all attendees get sleepy whereas RKC is presentation and application. Application is active participation of attendees. I never had a single moment where I felt sleepy.
Carrie Walker, Fuquay-Varina, NC,
My experience of the Russian Kettlebell Certification training gave me a better respect for myself. Through this training, I experienced and realized how far I have come since the first day I picked up a kettlebell. I have so much pride in myself as a result of kettlebells.
This is by far the best organized training event I have ever experienced not only in the fitness world but at a corporate level. I felt very welcome. There was not a time where I felt rushed if I did not understand something or felt degraded for my lack of knowledge. I enjoyed the emphasis on safety and loved the camaraderie.
This is my very first certification, yet I have been to several seminars on running and nutrition. Everyone was knowledgeable, professional, well organized and respectful. I loved the structure and enjoyed the use of time with out being rushed.
Todd Hitchcock, Catonsville MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
BS. Exercise Science, NSCA – CSCS, FMS, HKC
The RKC has a unique way of challenging you to your limits and beyond. Not just physically, but mentally as well. A true test of oneself!
I was very impressed. These guys are all world-class experts on kettlebell training. Every instructor was very knowledgeable on all aspects of skills, techniques and training methodology.
Nothing comes close. HKC was one day of basic instruction – still good. But RKC was three full, intensive days packed with information and practice.
Cullen McDonald, Albuquerque, NM, Firefighter
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
State champion in wrestling, all-state in football and track in high school. Competitor in Firefighter Combat Challenge World Championships (2003). Won 2005 Grappler’s Quest in Las Vegas, NV. Two-Time winner in Rumble in the Rio, police vs. firefighter boxing matches 2007-2008. HKC certified 2010. Wrestling and Football coach in 2001. Background in MMA style fighting. Instructor in Albuquerque Fire Academy in 2007. Training as a HKC for past year. Z-Health Essentials certification. MMA submission wrestling under Greg Jackson,
There is no better training or teachers, they back all statements and instruction with proven scientific research.
Elisa Mailman, New York, NY, investment analyst
The training was amazing. I was on team Ross and our three instructors were knowledgeable, thoughtful and when needed, critical. I felt myself improving all weekend, which I attributed to them. They were able to tweak little things, which helped tremendously. I am not a personal trainer, so this was my first (my trainer is RKC II and challenged me to do it). But the quality, scope of material and practical use was fantastic. I can take all of this home and make my workouts more precise, stronger and hopefully more enjoyable.
Derek Lahti, Neenah, WI, Functional Training/Kettlebell Gym Owner & Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
6 months of TaeKwon Do, Lifetime interest of martial arts, little experience with Wu Style Tai Chi, Bachleors Degree in Exercise Science, CSCS Certified, Trained under Level II RKC trainer for past year, Opened own gym Oct 2010.
An intense training both mentally and physically in the proper training of kettlebells. Proper breakdown of the movements to better understand safety and strength.
Quality was in depth. They freely shared this knowledge on techniques to better perform a movement. This information will be able to be directly incorporated into my kettlebell instruction and own training.
Fred Mindach, Murfreesboro, TN, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Served 5 Years in the United States Navy, supporting Iraqi freedom. Been a personal Trainer for 9 years. I have moved to exploring a lot of bodyweight movements. Hold a degree from the University of Hawaii, Hold an ACE-cpt and AFAA-cpt currently
It is has been every mentally and physically challenging course that has a return of a hundred times. It helps you get past barriers that push through every aspect of your life. One of the most rewarding certifications I have even ben to.
It is by far the best collection of minds and experience I have had the pleasure to be a part of, it is quality instruction that is very personalized even though it was in a bog group. That only happens with top tier instruction.
The attention to detail is unparalleled. No other course I have taken goes near into the depth of training than this.
Sergio Perez, Chicago, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
IMS Certified, Y-Balance Test Certified
Pavel and the team leaders are greatly knowledgeable. They pushed you and corrected and showed you different ways to viewing kb training, corrections and life lesson. It’s knowledge they have built up through years of practice but one weekend only gives you a fraction of what they can teach.
Russian KB certification is in a world of it’s own! Nothing gets your heart racing like bks. From a running background, the only thing that gets me that working this hard is sprints and your body can only do that for short sports. kb’s allow you to train full body in the same intensity as sprints!!
Cap O'Rourke, Minneapolis, MN
It is a physically demanding yet technically focused training that transfers knowledge of kb to others so that they are prepared to teach.
I have had little training but the attention to detail and building on a base of knowledge was impressive.
Victor Selvaggi, Ellicott City, MD, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
AFPA, FMS, NSPA, HKC
Hand work and dedication to one system equals great results. Sharpening the sword! A large variety of backgrounds and knowledge, all under one roof. The instructors were professional and dedicated to the cause.
Roxanne Altmeyer, Minneapolis, MN, Hairstylist/RKC
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
RKC
I’m re-certing. I now understand why there is a need to come back to this place every 2 years. I have refined my skills/moves 10x overs. The certification gets better and better.
Steph Woods, Cedar Lake, IN, Fitness Coach
Was a great learning experience. The training was intense but not unbearable. All the instructors are amazing and really know what they are talking about and now how to help your form.
Besides where I train I have no other experience of training. But because of the workouts I do at home it helped prepare me for the RKC and my coach also Angela Romas helped prepare mentally.
Paul Gorman, Evansville, IN, ATC, PTA, CSCS
Top Notch. No comparison. The HKC/RKC should be a part of elite level certification programs for all strength and conditioning certs.
Vince Gabriele, Berkeley Heights, NJ, Owner and trainer at Gabriele fitness
It helps people/trainers understand how important it is to be strong. It helps us understand how the human body moves and how it shouldn’t. It helps us understand what needs to be stable and what needs to be mobile in order to be healthy.
The hands on aspect was huge. Most certs are just from books. This you have to prove you can perform the drills yourself and also be able to coach someone through them.
I thought everyone was helpful and gave consistent feedback on certain coaching cues. I felt everyone was on the same page in regards to the coaching cues that were given. The quality of training was outstanding and taught me that anyone can get strong and everyone should be strong.
Gary Herman, Springfield, MO, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
FMS level 1; SFMA level 1, certified athletic trainer (ATC)
After going through Brandon Hetzler’s, RKC, CK-FMS training for six months I thought I fixed most of my bad habits. The RKC exposed those habits I thought I fixed and rebuilt my techniques. The RKC is a long, high volume certification, but done in a manor to control fatigue and still get quality/RKC standard reps.
Hard to put into words. You can see the different level of knowledge each leader brings to the table. You can tell these people live for RKC and practice it on a daily basis. There is one thing to know how to do a skill, but it is totally different to be able to teach it to different people and have everyone understand.
RKC has a reason to what it is doing. All through life coaches tell me to do something, but they don’t have a reason. RKC explains everything in a manner that easy to understand.
Linsey Smith, Springfield, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
FMS level 1; SFMA level 1, certified athletic trainer (ATC), PES.
After my training I thought I had fixed my bad habits. This course was intense and made me realize there is always work to be done.
This weekend was exceptional! My knowledge was greatly improved by the staff. They were professional and detailed in their instruction.
This training was more intense than anything I have gone through. The material is greatly beneficial to me for my profession. I will be able to apply these exercises to improve the quality of my athletes.
Jen Codutti, Springfield, MO, Athletic Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Marathon, half marathons, trail running. ATC, FMS, HKC
It is probably the most intense training and seminar I have attended. I am already using many of the ideas and techniques in my own work setting.
Rowena Litao, Mansfield, OH, Homemaker
My endurance and strength levels were tested to my maximum limits. It is imperative to train hard for one year before coming to RKC training. Most importantly, is to keep my focus at doing perfect techniques for each form, in spite of the grueling training drills and workouts for the whole weekend. Staying mentally alert at the tine of execution is a must.
Justin Lindley Plano, IL, Personal Trainer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
USSCA National and Iowa State Champion (1992), NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (2007), Associates Degree in Physical Therapy (1995), and HKC Certified (2010)
How strength is enhanced by mobility. Developing a more resilient person.
When I think Pavel and RKC I think quality. That was just reinforced this weekend.
Pavel and the whole RKC team keep the integrity of RKC and the kettlebell. They are proud and protective of it. Not so with all certs.
Heather Dayton, Maplewood, MN, Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
In the Fitness Industry for 15+ years. Professional Certifications/Training include: HKC,Spinning, NETA cpt, TRX, Zumba, with a strong interest in core, corrective exercise, chronic pain disorders, physical and cardiac rehab.
Honored to be a part of this training experience. It was difficult but rewarding. I have gained insight and knowledge that I know will impact my own personal/physical development as well as my clients.
By far RKC has provided in a short 3-day time span more information and practical training experience than any other certification. Thank you. I respect the strict requirements for certifications!
Benjamin M. Bulera, Woodbury, MN, Student
As a college student I face instruction, and lectures every day. It is apparent that the RKC holds a standard of expectation for all team leaders to be elite in knowledge as well as strength. Thank you!
James Croteau, McComb MS, Personal Trainer HKC
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
HKC, BJJ Blue Belt 1st Stripe under Carlos Machado
Very informative. Tests your ability to endure hard workouts but at the same time shows you how to endure better.
I’ve practiced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a couple of years. And the same kind of discipline is there. The scope of material is there and also the practical use is a little more than BJJ.
All over great experience. Very informative. I will definitely be training in a different way for now on..
Roy Bocina, East Northport, NY, Police Officer
Athletic Achievements, training background or specialty:
Prior US Army, Current Police Officer, Sandan American Jiu Jitsu, Guro Pekiti Tirsia
Was a good experience, very good instruction.