American Kettlebell Certification
Kettlebell strength training has been around for centuries, but only in the last decade has it become popular in the United States. If kettlebell exercises are not properly executed, it is easy to become injured. Kettlebell fitness expert John DuCane says as this type of fitness training becomes more widespread, a greater need for certified trainers becomes essential.
Other People Are Reading
-
Identification
-
Bodybuilding.com defines a kettlebell as a "bowling ball with a thick suitcase handle." Essentially, the kettlebell is a cast iron weight often resembling a cannon ball. Kettlebells range in weight from eight to 88 pounds and are also found with rubber coating.
History
-
According to Mike Stefano, master coach for the American Kettlebell Club, the origin of the kettlebell workout began in Russia, where strongmen competitions were quite popular. In 1948, kettlebell lifting became Russia's national sport. The kettlebell workout is relatively new in the United States. Stefano says the kettlebell workout was first introduced in America in 2000 as one of many new fitness fads. The American Kettlebell Club was designed to teach and train coaches proper fundamentals and techniques for kettlebell weight lifting in the United States.
-
Certification
-
The American Kettlebell Club (AKC) is coached by kettlebell world champion Valery Fedorenko. According to AKC, Fedorenko as of 2010 has more than 25 years of experience and is the only "honored master of sport" in kettlebell lifting in the United States. Eligiblity for AKC certification requires a mandatory pre-requisite training course with a master trainer.
Requirements
-
As of 2010, requirements for certification include the demonstration of proper technique while executing the kettlebell exercises for master kettlebell coach Valery Fedorenko. Kettlebell coach Scott Sonnon of Bellingham, Washington, says certification applicants primarily focus on the technical aspects of specific kettlebell exercises such as the swing, clean, jerk and snatch.
Cost
-
The cost for certification may vary depending on the training center. As of 2010 the average cost for American Kettlebell Certification ranged from $1,000 to $2,000. Many fitness centers give discounts and offer incentives such as a set of pro-grade kettlebells upon successful completion of the certification process.
-
References
- Photo Credit Weight Lifter 2 image by Infs from Fotolia.com
