When Will I Go to RKC?
I can’t wait to go to the Russian Kettlebell Challenge instructor certification weekend. By all accounts, it is one of the most difficult challenges available, both physically and mentally. RKCs unanimously agree that it is also one of the most rewarding things they have ever done. Wow. Sign me up!
So, my friends who know about my interest in the RKC have asked, “When will you go?” The answer, at least for now, is: I don’t know. There are tough certification requirements which I must fulfill. It’s difficult to estimate how long it will take me to prepare, but I do know that I’m nowhere near ready now.
RKC weekends are usually announced about 6 months in advance, but typically follow a similar schedule from year to year. Under consideration for me would be the (as yet unannounced) February or April, 2010 RKC weekends. The April session will likely be in St. Paul, which is more convenient for me. Jet lag doesn’t sound like something I would want to deal with that weekend.
It really boils down to how I progress. So kettlebell progress (endurance, strength, skill, knowledge) is what I’m focused on now. I’m doing everything I can to progress quickly and safely. But I’m also enjoying the climb. 
Here is video from the San Jose RKC February 2009 I can’t get enough of that video! And here’s another from the most recent St. Paul Minnesota RKC April 2009 They make me want to go RIGHT NOW!
maybe we’ll make the same one
It is the big question.. when will I go? When will I be ready to go? Can I train hard enough or expect it to be as tough as it will be?
My boyfriend and I are thinking of going to RKC in August of this year out in San Diego… Daunting and exciting and nerve wracking..
The requirements are TOUGH, but worth every drop of sweat training to achieve them.
I look to the innermost part of my heart and my soul for the strength I know that is there, and also to hardworking beautifully strong women like yourself who inspire me to keep going…
Wonderful, thoughtful post! I’m thinking along the same lines as you: certification in 2010. I haven’t decided yet whether to do RKC or IKFF, but whatever I choose I plan to wait until I feel as though I’m actually competent to teach this stuff.
Hey, looks like there’s a decent chance we’ll be at the same certification weekend–how fabulous would that be? We can cheer each other on!
Laura, that would be great!!! Let’s do it!!
Chris, that would be very cool!
Just a quick note if you guys are thinking if doing RKC or IKFF. There is a big difference between the two. RKC is Hardstyle Kettlebell Training and IKFF is GS Style Training. Just something to consider when deciding.
Juan, thanks for clarifying that. Anyone considering a kettlebell cert should definitely do their research and explore the differences between them!
Yes, thank you, Juan! That’s a very important distinction indeed. Right now I’m exploring both styles, trying to see which is the best fit for me. Eventually I’d like to get both certifications–is that crazy? It seems like it’s all about picking the right tool for the job, so the more I have in my tool kit the better off my clients will be.
Hi Sarah, I know what you mean about the RKC being very demanding. It can be very intimidating as well. It’s good that you recognize that you need to be ready for it. I’m going to the one in San Diego this coming June (‘09). I’ll let you know how it goes.
Sorry, it’s August…haha – brain fart!
Anna, I’ll be cheering you on in AUGUST!
So nice to know other “future RKCs!”
I have an idea that might have some merit for you. Pick a day (or month) make it a written goal to get there. If you do that you will succeed I can guarantee it.