When new, non-athlete clients tell me their fitness goals, what comes up most is 'I want to get back in shape' or 'I want to lose weight'

While worthy goals, they are also somewhat hollow victories and another example of confusing symbols with meaning. Because the objective of their training is still a certain look. In fact, when pressed for specifics, it becomes clear what the client wants is to look and feel better than they do now. On a deeper level, what they want is to embody beauty.

Long ago, I recognized the kettlebell as a phenomenal training tool. Like me, they are simple but incredibly versatile, and I've since used kettlebells to successfully train not only myself but a wide variety of world-class and would-be athletes. It's true that I enjoy kettlebell training, but it's important that people understand what kettlebells can--and cannot--do.

I get emails from people all over the world asking for advice. Most of these letters are very flattering and appeal to my ego. Often, the letter writer seeks free advice, although they would never phrase it as such. Free information, I give in plenitude via my website, videos and social networks.

The barbell squat. Traditionally worshipped as the holiest of holies, while others reject it as second only to Satan himself. Now factor in a current national trend towards so-called “functional training”, wherein the barbell squat (and deadlift) are deemed sine qua non and what I'm saying, friend-o, is this: The barbell squat is a controversial exercise.

photo: HP Skolsegg

So you’re an RKC...now what?

Are you an RKC wondering what you could possibly learn at my Level 1 KB Certification?

If you are a recently certified RKC, know this: the RKC course is a shadow of what it used to be. How do I know this? Because I get endless RKCs in my seminars with horrible form and technique.

While you, as an RKC, would be repeating some of the RKC material during our weekend training together (it is unavoidable since much of their material came from yours truly) I have since refined many of the kettlebell techniques I teach.

Subscribe to Steve's RSS feed