Why You Should Become a Kettlebell Certified Instructor
The Kettlebell Foundations course by Living.Fit (LF1 Kettlebell Certification) is an excellent resource for educating users or trainers on not only the basics of beginning a kettlebell program, but how to effectively incorporate kettlebell training into group settings. This course builds from the ground up with expert instructor Marcus Martinez taking participants from the anatomy of a kettlebell through performing explosive kettlebell lifts. The course design takes a systemic learning approach.
For each section, a solid foundation will be established that then provides steps for growth and development. This makes the course easily digestible for everyone from novice to advanced kettlebell users. Furthermore, Living.Fit uses this same progression to take participants from true novice to advanced certified kettlebell instructors.
For certified trainers, the LF1 Kettlebell Certification course has been approved for continuing education credits by AFAA, NASM, NCSF, ISSA, and ACE.
Credits vary based on organization:
- AFAA: 6 AFAA CEUs for this course
- NASM: 0.5 NASM CEUs for this course.
- NCSF: 3 CEUs for Fundamentals Course
- ISSA: 6 CEUs for Fundamentals Course
- ACE: 0.6 CEUs for Fundamentals Course
For the modern kettlebell trainer, kettlebells are an extremely useful and practical tool providing dynamic and challenging workout options with a minimum of equipment needed. Building the foundations for the kettlebell with this course presents added income potential for trainers and more robust training options for their clientele.
Here are some of the benefits of kettlebell training:
Kettlebells Improves cardiovascular fitness:
Kettlebell training is a high-intensity workout that can get your heart rate up quickly, helping to improve your cardiovascular fitness.
Builds strength and endurance:
Kettlebell exercises work multiple muscle groups simultaneously, which can help you build strength and endurance.
Enhances functional movement:
Many kettlebell exercises involve movements that mimic everyday activities, such as picking up groceries or swinging a hammer, making it a great way to enhance your functional movement.
Helps burn fat and lose weight:
Kettlebell training is a great way to burn calories and fat, helping you to lose weight and improve your body composition.
Improves balance and coordination:
Kettlebell exercises require a lot of coordination and balance, making it a great way to improve your overall body control.
Low-impact workout:
Kettlebell training is a low-impact workout that puts less stress on your joints compared to high-impact exercises like running.
Convenience:
Kettare portable and can be used anywhere, making it a great way to exercise when you don't have access to a gym.
Overall, kettlebell training can be a highly effective form of exercise that provides a wide range of benefits for people of all fitness levels.
Kettlebell Certification Course Overview
The foundations course is divided into easy to manage video segments each covering only one aspect of kettlebell training. Users can expect to learn about:
Safety
This section will develop a basic understanding of the components of the kettlebell inclusive of a few best practices to get the most out of clients during their kettlebell experience.
Breath
Breath work includes an engagement exercise that will set clientele up for success for any exercise pattern they will encounter. Included in this section is a breakdown of the importance of breath work as well as functional applications for a variety of skillsets.
Mobility Warm Up
Intentional movement is the focal point of the mobility warm up section. Working from the floor to the top of the head Marcus breaks down and applies movement and postural techniques. Utilizing multiple planes and ranges of motions at each joint the mobility warm up will effectively prepare any participant for kettlebell exercise.
Postural engagement
Follow along for a point-for-point breakdown of multiple common exercises that directly apply to the movement mechanics utilized in kettlebell patterns. Four exercises are described with important postural check points for each.
Kettlebell Hinge
Progressing into kettlebell work Marcus dissects the hinge pattern. This section describes the necessary movement capabilities needed to properly perform a hinge pattern while providing a step-by-step progression moving from isolation exercises to explosive multi-directional movements.
Kettlebell Deadlift
The deadlift section will cover not simply the deadlift pattern but variations in movement based on a client’s particular anatomy. The section builds off the previous hinge pattern section following a similar progression ultimately culminating in performing a ballistic deadlift.
Kettlebell Swing
Learn four distinct phases of the swing movement pattern where you are challenged to earn and own each phase of the swing. Throughout the progression you’ll discover tips and tricks to pro or regress clientele based on performance and postural check points.
Kettlebell Press
Stability and mobility are a key focus in this section. Marcus dissects the vertical press movement from rack positioning through vertical lockout. Inclusive of the section are multiple exercises and progressions to graduate to multi-directional pressing techniques.
Kettlebell Clean
Learn key postural checks specific kettlebell movement patterns to perfect your or your clientele’s kettlebell clean. Everything from wrist angle and flight pattern to full dead start cleans are covered in expert detail.
Nutrition
Join two Living.Fit trainers for a discussion on developing life-long and sustainable nutrition practices. Both trainers provide useful tips developed from real life experiences.
Morning Routine
Join another discussion on the benefit of and establishment of effective morning routines to start your day off on the right path.
Advanced Course
Enjoy a preview of what the advanced kettlebell course has to offer.
Following the video segments users will take an assessment to show proficiency in the topics discussed and, if passed, gain their level one Living.Fit Kettlebell certification (LF1). The LF1 is exactly as the course title suggests and the foundational piece towards a path of advanced kettlebell certification.
Next Steps of Kettlebell Certification would be:
LF2: Building on the LF1 Kettlebell Fundamentals Online program, LF2 prepares working fitness professionals to teach kettlebell techniques safely to the general public through skill demonstrations, technique refinement, and practice teaching. Taking a learner-centric approach, LF2 Instructors help their clients reach their goals through the safe and effective integration of kettlebells into their fitness programming. You will then complete a two hour online or in person one-on-one form coaching and teaching skills review with a member of our Senior Instructor Team.
LF3: Building on LF2, take the Advanced Course to achieved LF3 designation. Designed for seasoned trainers, sport coaches, correctives coaches and those who wish to teach the Living.Fit kettlebell courses one day. Must complete LF2 first. You will complete the Advanced Course online, complete a multiple choice assessment as well as a 2 hour online or in person test out with a member of our instructor team. This time will emphasize rotational, flow and modified movements. A member of our instructor team will grade your knowledge and performance of the advanced movements taught in this course.
LF4: These are members of our instructor team who can teach classes for Living.Fit, grade applicants for LF2 and LF3, earn income for their work. To be considered one must complete the requirements of L1-LF3.
Continuing Education
Continuing education is important for fitness professionals for several reasons:
Staying up to date with the latest research and best practices:
The fitness industry is constantly evolving, with new research and technologies emerging all the time. Continuing education helps fitness professionals stay current with the latest trends and best practices, which allows them to provide the best possible service to their clients.
Maintaining professional credentials:
Many fitness certifications require ongoing education to maintain their validity. This ensures that fitness professionals continue to meet the industry standards and are recognized as qualified experts in their field.
Enhancing skills and knowledge:
Continuing education provides opportunities for fitness professionals to learn new skills and expand their knowledge base. This can help them provide a wider range of services to their clients and differentiate themselves from their competition.
Networking and collaboration:
Continuing education events and programs provide opportunities for fitness professionals to network with other professionals in the industry. This can lead to collaboration on projects, sharing of best practices, and building a sense of community within the industry.
Overall, continuing education is critical for fitness professionals to maintain their credibility, stay competitive, and provide the best possible service to their clients.
Becoming a Certified Kettlebell Instructor:
To become a certified kettlebell instructor, you can follow these general steps:
Meet the prerequisites:
Most kettlebell certification programs require you to have a background in fitness, such as a personal training certification or a degree in exercise science.
Choose a certification program:
There are several organizations that offer kettlebell certification programs, such as StrongFirst, the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the American Council on Exercise (ACE), and Living.Fit. Research each program and choose one that fits your needs and goals.
Attend the certification workshop:
Most kettlebell certification programs require you to attend a workshop, which is typically 1-3 days long. During the workshop, you will learn about kettlebell technique, program design, and coaching strategies.
Pass the certification exam:
After the workshop, you will need to pass a written and practical exam to earn your certification. The exams typically cover kettlebell technique, program design, and coaching skills.
Maintain your certification:
To maintain your certification, you will need to complete continuing education courses and/or renew your certification periodically, depending on the organization.
Kettlebell certification Providing Organizations Pros and Cons:
The StrongFirst Kettlebell Certification (SFG)
Pros:
Comprehensive education: The SFG certification provides a comprehensive education on the principles of kettlebell training, including proper technique, programming, and coaching strategies. It covers a wide range of movements and provides in-depth instruction on each one.
High standards: The SFG certification has high standards for passing, which ensures that certified professionals have a deep understanding of kettlebell training and can effectively apply their knowledge in a coaching setting.
Prestigious certification: The SFG certification is widely recognized as one of the top certifications in the fitness industry, which can increase the credibility and earning potential of certified professionals.
Continued education: SFG certified professionals have access to ongoing education and support from StrongFirst, including workshops and online resources.
Cons:
Cost: The SFG certification can be expensive, with the cost of the course and associated travel and lodging expenses adding up quickly.
Time commitment: The SFG certification is a multi-day course that requires a significant time commitment, which can be challenging for busy fitness professionals.
Skill level: The SFG certification is designed for fitness professionals who already have a basic understanding of fitness and exercise. It may not be suitable for individuals who are new to the fitness industry or looking to learn basic exercise techniques.
The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Kettlebell Specialization Certification
Pros:
Comprehensive education: The NASM Kettlebell Specialization certification provides a comprehensive education on kettlebell training, including the principles, techniques, and programming strategies.
Evidence-based approach: The NASM certification is based on scientific evidence and research, which ensures that certified professionals have a deep understanding of the principles and techniques of kettlebell training.
Credibility: The NASM certification is widely recognized and respected in the fitness industry, which can increase the credibility and earning potential of certified professionals.
Continuing education: NASM certified professionals have access to ongoing education and support from the organization, including workshops and online resources.
Cons:
Cost: The NASM Kettlebell Specialization certification can be expensive, with the cost of the course and associated materials adding up quickly.
Time commitment: The NASM certification requires a significant time commitment, including both online coursework and in-person workshops.
Prerequisites: The NASM certification requires certain prerequisites, including a current NASM-CPT certification, which may limit the accessibility for some fitness professionals.
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) Kettlebell Certification.
Pros:
Comprehensive education: The ACE Kettlebell Certification provides a comprehensive education on the principles of kettlebell training, including proper technique, programming, and coaching strategies. It covers a wide range of movements and provides in-depth instruction on each one.
Evidence-based approach: The ACE certification is based on scientific evidence and research, which ensures that certified professionals have a deep understanding of the principles and techniques of kettlebell training.
Credibility: The ACE certification is widely recognized and respected in the fitness industry, which can increase the credibility and earning potential of certified professionals.
Continuing education: ACE certified professionals have access to ongoing education and support from the organization, including workshops and online resources.
Cons:
Cost: The ACE Kettlebell Certification can be expensive, with the cost of the course and associated materials adding up quickly.
Time commitment: The ACE certification requires a significant time commitment, including both online coursework and in-person workshops.
Prerequisites: The ACE certification has certain prerequisites, including a current ACE Personal Trainer Certification, which may limit accessibility for some fitness professionals.
Living.Fit Kettlebell Certification
Pros:
Convenience: The Living.Fit Kettlebell Certification is entirely online, which provides flexibility and convenience for fitness professionals who cannot attend in-person courses due to time or geographic constraints.
Comprehensive education: The Living.Fit certification program provides a comprehensive education on the principles and techniques of kettlebell training, including proper technique, programming, and coaching strategies.
Ongoing education: Living.Fit certified professionals have access to ongoing education and support from the organization, including workshops and online resources.
Cost: The Living.Fit Kettlebell Certification is relatively affordable compared to other certification programs, which makes it accessible to a wider range of fitness professionals.
Cons:
Limited hands-on experience: The Living.Fit certification program is entirely online, which means that certified professionals may have limited hands-on experience with kettlebells and maces.
Limited recognition: Living.Fit is not as widely recognized as other certification programs in the fitness industry as it is the newest certification comparatively.
Career Growth Opportunities
The fitness industry has been growing steadily over the past decade, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 15 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
The BLS attributes this growth to an increasing emphasis on health and fitness across all age groups, as well as the rising popularity of group fitness classes and personalized training. In addition, the aging baby boomer population is expected to drive demand for fitness services, as they seek to maintain their health and mobility.
The fitness industry has seen a rise in popularity of kettlebell training, which has led to an increased demand for certified kettlebell instructors. While there is no specific data available on projected career growth for kettlebell instructors, the overall outlook for fitness trainers and instructors is positive
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend towards virtual and online fitness services, which presents new opportunities for kettlebell instructors who can offer virtual training and coaching services. As more people turn to online fitness programs for convenience and accessibility, there will likely be an increasing demand for skilled kettlebell instructors who can provide effective workouts and coaching remotely.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified kettlebell specialist is an easy career choice for modern trainers due to the massive range of benefits kettlebell training can provide both you and your clientele. Through the Living.Fit LF1 course, there exists an excellent opportunity for growth. Advance your both knowledge of kettlebells and potentially your career as a fitness professional.
