For the past year I have been under Coach Dmitri's expert tutelage, mostly working on cardio. Coach has done things with me that I would not have though possible one year ago.
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Strength & Conditioning Testimonials
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING TESTIMONIALS
"I started training with Coach Dmitri back in May. Being a Personal Trainer, I thought I had a good grasp on training. I cant believe how much I didn't know. Coach has taught me lessons way beyond kettlebells. I am stronger in every capacity, and I look forward to the years of training to come!" Jillian Hicks Personal Trainer
"I felt at home the moment I set foot inside this gym. If you are looking for a classic, mature, workout then this is your place. You can find any equipment here that other gyms have, and then some. What this gym has, that no other gym has, is Dmitri, the owner and primary trainer. Dmitri is a world class athlete and fitness trainer, and a world champion kettlebell competitor. For the past year I have been under Coach Dmitri's expert tutelage, mostly working on cardio. Coach has done things with me that I would not have though possible one year ago. Coach has a way of knowing exactly how far to push in order to get the very most out of me. I love the feeling that I get when I walk out of this gym after a workout. There is no better feeling. The atmosphere in this gym is like family. Every time I come here, I know I am in for a terrific workout, but no matter how hard I am training someone always provides a joke or a laugh. I highly recommend the Russian Kettlebell Academy to anyone who is serious about their physical conditioning." Jim McDowell USMC Ret.
"...I believe being at this gym is one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life. It's been a great experience working every day with coach, he and his wife are great people to be around. Every day training with coach is a challenge. You not only tested physically, but mentally as well. You constantly pushed to the edge of what your capable of, only to consistently see improvements as time goes on. The more I train I find out things I didn't know I was capable of, and I've learned just how much I have it within myself. Overall, it's just been a very positive experience training at the gym. So if you like me looking for more than just a way to lose weight but personal transformation as well, then this is the place for you..." Michael F., E-3/ Navy/ Texas February 2016
"Wow. Dmitri Sataev’s workouts - and his overall way of fitting the workouts into a larger plan for your health, power and self-esteem - are the best I have ever encountered in my 22 years of working out in various disciplines. Here is a true professional who loves what he does and has devoted his entire life not only to becoming a three-time world champion athlete, but also to mastering the art of coaching for power, strength, health, competition and also bodybuilding. I think he has more than 30 years of experience, and it really makes a difference. I have trained with all different levels of personal trainers, martial arts teachers and group fitness instructors, and truly Dmitri is the only one who has given me the right combination of expertise, attention, intelligence, the right amount of pushing, tough love, and the highest standards of fitness to keep me coming back. You will never get bored and never stopped feeling challenged, yet will always come away feeling proud of yourself for accomplishing the goals he sets for you. Dmitri is smart, funny and really cares about helping his students truly excel. I have met and exceeded strength and fitness goals with Dmitri that I never even dared set for myself before I started working with him. Furthermore, Dmitri's gym sets a no-frills, no-nonsense, only-the-best, old school tone that discourages dilettantism and encourages you to push past your limits, safely, towards your own personal growth. I am currently traveling and feel the absence of Dmitri's guidance acutely. He offers a distance-coaching option that I will explore in order to keep up with his training while I am away. Prior to meeting Dmitri and his wife, Elena (who is also a four-time world champion athlete and an amazing trainer in her own right, but with whom I am less familiar), I never imagined I would consider doing a distance-coaching program for my personal workouts. The quality of Dmitri’s coaching changed my mind." Matthew Porter, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Psychology California School of Professional Psychology
"The Russian Kettlebell Academy is not 24/7 Fitness; it is a place where true progress is made and results are gained. Dmitri Sataev is not a personal trainer, he's full-fledged coach who'll invest his time and energy to ensure you reach your goals in the safest way possible. His only demand is that you put in the time and effort yourself. Dmitri is a world class kettlebell champion and the leading kettlebell expert in the country, teaching the original гиревой спорт (Girevoy Sport) developed in the Soviet Union. However his decades of expertise includes powerlifting, bodybuilding, and various other training techniques you've never heard of. After training under Dmitri for one year my results are significantly beyond what I've seen while training under anyone else. I've come to learn that even more important than my physical improvements was the mental fortitude I've developed from his training. Keep in mind nothing here is easy; your mind and body will be challenged and pushed until you've surpassed your limits. Then you'll be pushed again. But you'll eventually come to understand growth doesn't come from "easy" or "medium". " Eric T Martinez
"I'm 66 and even though I come from a very physically demanding work life, I had let my health and physical condition decline badly after I retired. Pretty common with retirees. Would start and stop workout routines at home and at local gyms but could never stick to them because I was no longer "required” to be at a high level of physical conditioning. On a whim, I went with my grandson to this gym to check it out. Dimitri (the owner) made it clear to me he knew what he was doing when it comes to physical "rehabilitation" (my term). I signed up for coaching sessions that day in May. I immediately realized I need someone to hold me accountable while restoring my health. From the second session on, I hadn't felt so good literally in years. I actually look forward to going to this gym because of how great I feel afterwards. I walk more upright, feel stronger, breathe better, even my eyes seem to be clearer. Dimitri DEFINITELY does know what he's doing. He watches you closely and can tell just how much you can really do. And it's surprising how much you really can do that you didn't think you could. I strongly recommend this gym and committing to a contract with Dimitri. It's worth every penny to have your own personal coach with such a vast knowledge of how to restore your health and fitness to you personally no matter what your current fitness level is. This is just what you need if you really want to make a huge positive change in your life that you can literally feel." Mick Volpe
" I began training at the United States Girevoy Sport Federation gym under the tutelage of Dmitri about six months ago. His instructional methods and ability to coach have helped me progress to levels of performance that I could not have done alone. When Dmitri takes someone to instruct, he builds them from the ground up and takes pride in doing so. His classes are for people who want to learn the actual sport of Girevoy and/or want to improve their conditioning. A month ago, I became an instructor in the sport and I use the girya during morning pt at my unit to improve the fitness of the sailors I work with. I would recommend Dmitri’s classes to anyone, regardless of fitness level or experience..." Stephen Clogston, Maritime Enforcement Specialist Second Class, United States Coast Guard
"Dmitri has given me the training I need to take my strength and conditioning to the next level. The workouts here are defiantly for those strong of will. You will be pushed to your limits. The atmosphere here reeks of sweat, hard work and determination. My job requires that I be in only the best of shape, and at USGSF, I've found the training. My physique has drastically changed since the short time I've been here. This place is for serious individuals only. Welcome to USGSF. Welcome to Russian Hell. " Andrew Volpe
"The gym for me at first was just a way for me to get in shape. Now I find myself going there for fun. I was out of shape and could barely even lift the 8kg kettlebells. Now I’m lifting the 20kg kettlebells. Before I went to the gym I didn’t even know what to do with the kettlebells or what they even where. Kettlebells weren’t the only thing that I improved in. I noticed that I was lifting more weights than I ever thought I could. I was lifting, squatting, and benching more. I was getting stronger mentally as well as physically. At football I was always in the back of the pack. Now I am usually in the front. Thanks to Dmitri’s training course I have been in better shape than ever. I can lift more, I have more endurance, and more confidence." Bennett Sceusa
"I joined the gym just for my son Bennett. To get Bennett in shape for football. I was just going to do cardio. When Dmitri said that I should probably start weight training I was hesitant at first, I was worried about being so out of shape and the pain of working out. But it turned out that Dmitri and Elena made it gradual but constant improvement. Now I actually look forward to going to the gym. When Bennett my son broke his wrist Dmitri kept working with him keeping in mind not to do any more damage to the broken wrist. He was able to stay in shape and now since his wrist has healed Dmitri is working with him to get the week wrist back into shape. Dmitri and Elena created a nice family atmosphere in the gym. All the members are friendly and supportive. Thank you both from Dennis Sceusa." Dennis Sceusa, May 2013
"My training experience at USGSF thus far (three weeks in) has been outstanding. The instructors are extremely proficient at their jobs, constantly monitor your progress, and push you like I’ve never seen. When it comes to Kettlebells (Girevoy) there is no one better. Dmitri (The Mad Russian) forces you to correct bad habits that you may have picked up from other kettlebell sessions. Having participated in a now popular “functional fitness” community on and off again for the past several years, I have to say these are the hardest workouts I have ever done. Dmitri pushes you to the brink of exhaustion, then happily says “do it all again.” Yet, you finish and feel like you just conquered the world, leaving you with a strong desire to come back for another session. In stark contrast to my “functional fitness” experience, Dmitri also has the ability to tailor the workouts. You are not constrained to doing what is written on a wall just because that is what everyone else is doing that day?? I have seen Dmitri design some brutal workouts that pushed you beyond your limit, while keeping in mind any possible injury or concern you may have (i.e. hurt lower back, sprained ankle, tweaked shoulder…). Just know that Dmitri has an uncanny ability to sense if you genuinely have an injury or concern, or if you are just complaining about soreness. I made the mistake of saying my legs “hurt” before a workout and Dmitri said “Good, let’s start with some heavy ball lifts then standing squats, then move onto some real runners, then…,” you get the idea. The gym is the most basic, most brutal, and best workout environment I’ve experienced in a long time. I intend on being a member for a very long time." -Levi H, July 2013
"Coach has been a pivotal part of changing my life. I am 46 years old and have kept relatively active throughout my life, but made a decision to take my exercise and well being to the next level. Little did I know that the instruction and expertise that Coach has given me since I've joined his program has been life changing and beneficial to my health in many ways. I'm stronger, more confident, and lead a healthier lifestyle. For this I am truly grateful." Steve Spellerberg, Account Manager Lawyers Title Company, July 2013
“To all interested in improving their strength and conditioning: Dmitri's approach to training is completely unique. His unorthodox methods, plainly put, deliver results. When I started training with Dmitri he put me through rigorous workout to evaluate my conditioning. He challenged me to pick up a 170 pound medicine ball. It was only because of his tremendous coaching that I was able to lift it. Now I can lift a 200 pound medicine ball 10 times, which is no easy feat for a man that weighs 155 pounds. This not only involves great strength, but also demands incredible conditioning.
As a professional fighter, I have found his training invaluable. When encountering an opponent of equal skill, the more conditioned athlete will always win and that's what gives me the edge over my opponents. I have been training with Dmitri since September of 2006 and we have yet to do the same workout twice. If you are a fighter or just trying to push yourself to the next level, you'll never know how good his training is until you try it.”
Diego Garijo Professional MMA Fighter
"As I write these few words about my trainer Dmitri Sataev, I have recently ‘turned 60’. Like so many guys; I trained with weights as a teenager and during my years in the military, but as I got older my training ‘faded’. I was 48 when I began to train with Dmitri and in the next four years I accomplished things I would have never dreamt of. He did more than teach me proper technique, exercises, movements, and workouts that increased my strength, endurance, flexibility, and mental acuity; he taught me to demand more of myself.
Today I am at my high school football playing weight, literally. I can walk into the gym and squat 405 lbs. for reps. I’ve done 225 lbs. one handed dead lifts, and Farmer Walks with 125 lbs. dumbbells. I mention these numbers just to give you an idea of what I have achieved thanks to Dmitri’s training. He did more than teach me to train my body; he showed what was possible if I would just do what he told me to do. I am very glad I did."
Dennis Barlotta
" Since Jan, 2012 I have been doing strength & conditioning with Dmitri & I can honestly say this is the best I have ever felt overall, both in the physical and mental sense. At the start he assesed where my fitness level was and it was quite different from where he helped me get to today. Variety w/ the workouts never leaves a dull moment, each time a different area of the body is targeted. Sore muscles are proof that he made you work hard and it's a great feeling! I never leave the Russian Kettlebell Academy without feeling that I didn't give it my all and a ton of sweat in the process! I have never tested my limits with exercise before and now I have w/ Dmitri, he is both encouraging and entertaining! " Geraldine W. San Diego, CA
"The 6 weeks I spent with Coach Dmitri was by far, the best conditioning, strength and endurance training I have ever experienced. His training philosophies will make you stronger physically and mentally and the results will speak for them self. As a professional athlete, I know that with Coach Dmitri's training, I will have the edge and quitting is not an option, only winning is--except now by how much is up to me." Joey Gilbert
USGSF Certification testimonials
USGSF Certification testimonials
I have been a member of Coach Dmitri's gym for a couple years now and have worked with him on several different programs. Each program has served it's exact purpose in getting the results I was looking for. Having tried multiple lifting regimens with various forms of supplementation I was still unsatisfied with my numbers and overall physique. Then recently I tried the bodybuilding and powerlifting program under Coach Dmitri, without supplementation of any kind, and I couldn't believe my numbers and how quickly I began to build muscle. WIthin 2 months my muscle tone had improved and the increased in size, more so than in previous years with traditional lifting routines and hundreds of dollars in supplements. The arsenal of workouts Coach has is impressive in itself. Every workout there is something new to do that you haven't tried before, and you can be sure it will always be grueling. I thoroughly enjoy the difficulty and extreme physicalness of the routines, and the conditioning is like none other. Coach is always pushing you beyond your limitations, if you are willing to push yourself as well. If you do your part, he will certainly do his part in helping you achieve your goals, and then push you beyond what you thought would be almost impossible to achieve. Many times I have stared in disbelief in what he has asked me to do, but I always push and end with a result that shocks even me. You're guaranteed to test your mettle and find out what you are truly capable of. It has been an honor and my biggest pleasure in working with Coach Dmitri and Elena for the past couple years. And not only as a student, but as a friend. I not only enjoy my sessions, but also spending time hanging around the gym visiting with them. I will continue to be a member for years to come, and strongly urge all interested to try at least one session. Curtis Wells
I meet Dmitri Sataev at a Martial Arts tournament in San Diego, CA (September 2011). Dmitri invited me to a GS (Kettlebell) class. I told him I would show up which I did. Being in the fitness industry for many years. I had heard that Dmitri took his training very seriously. I was also looking for a coach to take my Kettlebell training to the next level. I arrived at the training facility, looked around and spoke with Dmitri. I desided this would be my new home, There is something magical about being taught by a World Champion. Learning from Dmitri who was born in old U.S.S.R. is an honor. In three months my strength and conditioning has improved greatly. I am extremely please with my progress. Dmitri is an excellent coach and motivator. The classes are fun, exciting, and challenging. Dmitri adjusts and modifies the class to any skill level. If you are serious about Girevoy Sport or fitness in general, Dmitiri is the man for the job.. He excels in Strength and Conditioning. Kirk Texeira Founder & President Workout With Kirk WORKOUT WITH KIRK 360 Partial Curriculum Vitae: MFT, B.S.,CPT, ARTS, AETS, Injury Prevention & Injury Risk Management, Certified Functional Movement Specialist Level ll, Certified USA Track & Field Level 1 Coach, TRX Sports Medicine Level ll, TRX Suspension Training Level 1 & TRX Group Level 1 Training
Trainers, athletes, and anyone interested in personal development: If you've been following the fitness industry lately, surely you're aware of the latest rage of Russian Kettlebells. There is no doubt as to the effectiveness of kettlebell training, as many top athletes have jumped on the bandwagon and rave about their athletic improvements brought on by KBs. But where would one start learning how to use KBs? Look no further. Dmitri Sataev of the US Girevoy Sport Federation has developed an instructional course in kettlebell training that will get you up to speed in no time. This is the REAL Girevoy Sport, as practiced in Russia. You'll focus on the fundamental lifts such as the snatch, jerk, and long cycle, along with assisting exercises. Technique, form, and safety are stressed, making it an excellent overall course for trainers and athletes alike. I have personally taken the course and can attest as to effectiveness of the training and quality of instruction. Mr Sataev is an authority on the subject, and will personally see to it that you've mastered what is necessary to perform these classic lifts safely and effectively. So do yourself a favor and add this training to your arsenal of fitness today. -Jeff Higgs Ex US Navy SEAL BJJ Black Belt
When I arrived in San Diego to work with Dmitri I wasn't sure what to expect. I had spoken to him on the phone and exchanged emails and I was willing enough to travel across the country to work with him but there is always the unknown factors. I am a personal trainer by profession and certified with the American College of Sports Medicine and I have attended conferences and weekend workshops held by a list of fitness gurus and experts. Some of these experts are impressive and others are not. I am happy to say that I was pleased and impressed with Dmitri's knowledge, skills and abilities. The curriculum was informative and easy to follow. Everything from the course workbook, classroom to certificate of completion said professional to me. The training facility had a sauna dry and wet, swimming pool, nutritional supplements, plenty of giri, great cooking and more. I will be honest and say I was worried after the first day of training. I was physically worn out. My technique was poor and with all the corrections I found myself over-thinking the steps of each movement. Dmitri kept me on track by reinforcing what I needed to do. He even showed me some tricks of the trade to help my performance during a competition. Overall, I will say that the USGSF instructor certification weekend is a definite highlight and I look forward to using what I learned as an GS athlete and to my future GS students. Thank you everyone at USGSF!! -Ryan Wallace Personal trainer Randolph, MA
The Kettlebell Certification course at USGSF is 2nd to none. You will not find another place where a kettlebell instructor breaks down the 3 lifts of the jerk, one arm snatch and full cycle in such vivid detail. Like anything else worth accomplishing, Girevoy sport is not easy. It takes Spartan like dedication to become good at this discipline. However, with Dmitri's expertise, he can take any individual regardless of skill level and set realistic goals to produce world class results. There might be other kettlebell federations which claim to be the best, but Dmitri has set the Gold standard with the first ever Kettlebell sport DVD ever to be produced in the United States. I recommend that anyone who is serious about Girevoy sport should own a copy. Peter Mouttapa ISSA certified personal Trainer USGSF certified kettlebell instructor Black Belt in Renbukai Karate Black Belt in World Oyama Karate/Knockdown karate fighter U.S.A amateur boxer/coach Muay Thai Kickboxing practitioner/fighter Mountain View, California March 20, 2007
After working with Kettlebells for two years, my trainer advised me that it was time to learn the techniques from the Master. “If you want to really learn Girevoy Sport, this is the man you should learn from”, I was told. I booked the flight and certification weekend right away, not wanting to miss this opportunity with Dmitiri. The wealth of knowledge I gained far surpassed my expectations. Every aspect of swings, jerks and snatches was fine-tuned, taking me from average recreational training, to the technical-quality training of a competitive athlete. I also learned precisely what to look for when assessing the technique of others, and how to correct them. The personal attention given to each participant is something I have experienced at no other seminar. Dmitri brings out the best in everyone, as evidenced by two GS novices whose improvement after 3 days was astounding. Through his patience and communication skills, Dmitri is adept at pinpointing exactly what an individual needs to enhance their performance. The tools and drills for specific strengthening are one of a kind. If you are serious about Girevoy Sport, Dmitiri is the man for you! Unlike so many other organizations which register you and then don’t know your name, this experience has been uniquely nurturing. As tough as the training is, Dmitri and his staff are always approachable about any issue, question or challenge I encountered. Very refreshing indeed! I never thought that I would be interested, much less capable to compete in GS, but I am thoroughly inspired after meeting and working with Dmitiri. I am committed to his training and proud to be a member of USGSF. Lorna Kleidman LMT, CNMT ART Therapist [email protected] New York, New York
Growing up in gyms since age 4, I’ve been around, trained with, competed against, and instructed elite athletes including world champions in a number of sports and at least one Guinness world record holder. Now as the owner/operator of my own training facility I have been exposed to too many instructors and trainers to count. Some of those instructors were exceptional and left permanent impressions on me, as well as the rest of the world, in their various disciplines. Dmitri Sataev of the USGSF is in that category. The level of instruction and attention to significant detail I received at the USGS Instructor Certification Program was exceptional and made all the difference in both my personal performance as well as my ability to safely and effectively train others including my athletes with kettlebells. Whether you’re interested in competing in Girevoy Sport or just learning proper technique to train yourself or others this is THE place to learn how to use and how to teach kettlebell lifting. Thank you, Dmitri, for both your commitment and your hospitality. Adam Pollock Owner of Kokopelli’s Gym http://www.kogym.com Trainer of amateur and professional Boxers, Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts fighters USGSF Certified Instructor
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