Testimonials on Training DVD's


Reviews on Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting DVD, Series 1

Steve Cotter's Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting is amazing! I am looking forward to using the techniques in my MMA conditioning workout. It is the best DVD series I have ever seen on the subject.

Mario "The Zen Machine" Sperry — mixed martial art legend

What an amazing package you have put together here! By far the best kettlebell DVD package I have seen to this day. Every exercise I can think of is on here and demonstrated in a way that is meticulous and easy to understand. I wish I had this when I started lifting kettlebells because I would probably be light years ahead of where I am today. The DVD's are fantastic. They really are just about all you need as far as kettlebell DVD's go.

Rich Haviland

If you own a kettlebell you must have this DVD!

I love Steve Cotter for his vision, he is not a man to be accused of thinking small. So it is only natural that he is the one to take on a project as vast as the Encyclopedia of KB training. It makes perfect sense as he is the one man, even in the sea of talent we have here at DD, that could pull it off. From the basics to the most advanced moves, from the grinds to the ballistics, not only can he explain his way through anything he can demonstrate each move with ease. But he also knows when to call in the big boys and thanks to him we now have Valery Federenko to demonstrate the GS moves for those of us hooked by that bug.

I truly believe that this is the last word on kettlebell instruction. I've been watching and re-watching this DVD to see if there is anything he's left out. If I do come up with something chances are he'll have thought of it already and it will be in the next edition. I am still patiently waiting for him to levitate as I think that's all that remains to be seen from him.

Lorraine Patten — Pleasant Valley, New York

A few days ago, I got Steve Cotter's new "Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting".

A 5 DVD pack full of HOURS of detailed skillful instruction and a kettlebell lifting guide with different programs to help beginners, intermediate and advanced, along with programs for strength, endurance and flexibility — all of which are excellent.

I've been working out with KBs for a while and seen many KB videos. They are all good and varied and I thought there was nothing else to be said that would make a great difference. However, Steve — with the assistance of Valery Fedorenko who demonstrates all the GS style lifts -really put together something great for everyone.

I was excited to get so much out of these DVDs and impressed with all the variations of each exercise, detailed prep work to build up to the more difficult exercises and tips to overcome almost any problem with any particular exercise.

Steve's technical expertise really comes across and makes you want to grab your kettlebells and go for it!

With each generation of KB videos, one more impressive than the next, I thought to myself, "what more can be said about KB lifting?". And here I find the answer, the whole "Encyclopedia of Kettlebell lifting". I think God has a funny sense of humor..

I must admit, this encyclopedia is nothing less than remarkable for any kettlebells lifter, new and old. I know I will always be able to use it as a reference for as long as I am lifting.

I even bought one for my father, a new kettlebell lifter, and I know now that with these DVDs, he'll have the information to get started and improve quickly thanks to Steve's hard work.

Michael de Acevedo — Barcelona, Spain

Keep this set within reach at all times

"The Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting" by Steve Cotter was just delivered to me by The Fat Man himself, Santa Klaus. This DVD series (5 discs, 7 hours of instruction) will serve as a complete introduction for any beginner, and as a go-to reference guide for an experienced lifter's skill refinement and/or refreshment. The terminology and movements we are all familiar with have been streamlined into one fluid period of instruction.

Will Williams RKC/CAS — Malvern, PA
Graduate School for Kettlebell Trainers

This is the most comprehensive kettlebell dvd of all time. each aspect of each exercise is covered in a depth and scope just not attempted before. Not only is Steve incredibly talented as a kettlebell athlete( no surprise there) but his instructional and teaching ability is superb.the production quality of the dvd is excellent as well.The very handy printed exercise and routine guide is a great touch as well.

Most would pay the full price of the dvds for just a little bit of Steve's individual instruction. THis series is like getting not just a Cotter seminar but hundreds of seminars, each incredibly detailed about every nuance of every exercise. Of course the exercises are done as perfectly as one can do them, creating the perfect visual template for how to do each movement as well as it can be done.

The level of detail he goes into for each movement is amazing and will give the KB aficianado more things to think and obsess about than they bargained for. This series cannot just be watched, it must be studied and truly lives up to its "Encyclopedia" title. I cant wait for the companion book, and if one is not in the works it should be. A great coffee table book if there was one. "Arnolds" encyclopedia notwithstanding.

This is probably not the best dvd for the newbie KB athlete, it would be too overwhelming. But once you have the basics down this is an absolute must have resource.

Huge accomplishment Steve, well done.

Mark Reifkind — San Jose, Ca

A Must for every kettlebeller

These 5 dvd's are a must for every kettlebeller no matter what level of experience. The instructions are clear and concise and Steve shows every exercise from many angles so that one is not left guessing on the correct form. He not only gives the correct form he tells why you should do it in the way described in the dvds

Russ — SLC, Ut USA

The Holy Grail of Kettlebell Lifting

If you could only purchase one kettlebell training DVD, make it "The Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting. It has everything one could every wish for. The knowledge and variety of lifts contained with-in this DVD would take a lifetime to master. Steve breaks down the lifts in a no nonsense, easy to learn fashion and gives you numerous variations of those lifts. Also appearing along side Steve is Girevoy World Champion, Valery Fedorenko. Who could ask for more! This is truly the Holy Grail of KB training DVD's.

Perry Brown II — Howard, Ohio

All you'll ever need!

With a set of kettlebells and Steve's brilliant DVD set you would be set up for life. There are so many options here you would never get bored or need to look elsewhere. In fact, you could probably make a career as a trainer with just this DVD set!

Matthew Green — Manchester, UK

Books are great but dvds rock

This dvd set is awesome. Having recently purchased kettle bells from Dragondoor.com I was anxious to try them out. So like any good athlete I went to the bookstore and bought a book on kettle bell lifting. I will tell u flat out trying to figure out the clean to rack position is next to impossible from looking at still pictures, and just forget about doing the turkish get up correctly if pictures is all u have. Needless to say my excitement about kettlebells was waning until I ordered this dvd set. Steve Cotter is excellent and to the point in his explanations of technique, form, and concepts. He also spends an ample amount of time showing each of the 180 movements from different angles. In addition to each movement Steve will also show variations, and what improper lifting form looks like. Another excellent aspect of this Dvd is the title and chapter organization. Each movement has its own chapter. There is no fast forwarding through movements to get to other ones, if u want to see the military press all u have to do is place the correct dvd in your player and select the chapter( extremely helpful when doing the provided routines).

If you are new to kettlebell lifting this is the dvd to get.

Matthew Godina — NYC, NY

This video is one of my favorites, I have about 5 other dvds that I like very much but this one has it all, steve shows you in detail how to perform all the exercises and explains some of the troubles you might have with some of the lifts and helps you get by them, all i can say is if your into kettle bell lifting this video will help you out a great deal,and as an extra he gives you a good amount of work outs to try out in the front booklet.

Scott, East Bridgewater — MA USA

Worth more than its weight in gold!

Steve Cotter is a great teacher, this series was both comprehensive and easy to understand. He has broken down every exercise with multiple camera angles,it is like having a one on one training experience with Steve with every dvd you play.

Eric, CFT — Old Lyme, Ct USA

Thanks for making this dvd for us novices. It's a steal for $100, almost scholarly.

Mike Pupis

If you can only buy one training dvd, buy this one

This is THE training program to get if you are interested in KB's. I already own several others, and if I could do it all over, I would buy this one first. Steve Cotter knows what he talks about and, just as important, he also knows how to teach it.

Joe Valdez — Ft Bragg, NC

Reviews on Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting DVD, Series 2

The rate at which Steve Cotter has transformed kettlebell training is nothing short of AMAZING. He has challenged the average training methodologies out there and has proven that his principles based on internal martial arts and Russian strength training are superior. Everything I thought I knew about strength training and athletic conditioning changed for the better when I started to study his methods. As a strength coach, my training applications have been influenced greatly by Steve. Steve is a true pioneer and is taking kettlebell training back to its grass roots. Anyone who is serious about athletic enhancement should study and listen to Steve Cotter. He is leaving a legacy of excellence and frankly, I want to be part of it!

Franz Snideman — RKC, CHEK, Owner of Revolution Fitness Center, and author of The Revolution Kettlebell Fat Loss Program

Steve Cotter is a rare breed of athlete and coach. A true professional, Steve walks the walk and talks the talk by setting examples through his physical prowess as well as his personable demeanor. Without hesitation I can easily say, if you have the opportunity to learn from Steve you should jump on the opportunity!

Zach Even-esch — the Underground Strength Coach

Steve Cotter's Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting is amazing! I am looking forward to using the techniques in my MMA conditioning workout. It is the best DVD series I have ever seen on the subject.

Mario "The Zen Machine" Sperry — mixed martial art legend

"The Empire Strikes Back" of Kettlebell DVDs! Steve Cotter makes you want to hurt yourself!

What Steve Cotter has done with the issue of Vol. II of his magnificent "Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Lifting" series, truly establishes a new standard for comprehensive training. If kettlebell training is the "martial art of weightlifting", then with this series, Steve has resolutely established himself as one of it's preeminent masters. With his innovative tweaking of exercises through "positions of extreme compromise" and emphasis on applicability to martial artists, professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts everywhere, he ably demonstrates that his ability to cue the subtle details that unlock a technique is only bested by his mastery of then demonstrating those same techniques with very challenging poundage and skill. His unique background in the Internal Chinese Martial Arts (as well as his degree in Kinesthesiology) has provided him a wealth of esoteric and practical knowledge in body orientation that has allowed him to take description of technique beyond the mundane and that knowledge has clearly been tested in real life with two full contact championships under his belt.

After watching his "personal" workout on disc 6, you will realize that Steve is able to offer the "full package" with strength, power, flexibility, balance, grace and endurance.

This encyclopedia fully catalogues exactly how versatile this 'stand-alone' fitness tool is with hundreds of techniques, many of which are evidence of Steve's own unique "Full KOntact" style of very innovative and dominatingly effective training.

An amazing sequel to the already astondingly comprehensive Vol. I, a completely absolute "must have" for all RKC instructors, kettlebell devotees and martial artists of all types.

Court Wing — New York, NY

The Most Informative Product I've ever Purchased

I have been working out with kettlebells for about 2 years and was stuck in a bit of a rut until I got these DVD's. Steve is very precise with his explanations and is inspiring in his extreme workout. He shows you limitless possibilities and that whether your goal is speed, strength, coordination, or just vibrant health and vitality, it can all be attained. You simply apply yourself to new challenges continuously but never forget the basics. Awesome work Steve, this will be referenced very often.

Rich Chessario — Erie, PA, USA

Another Fantastic Product from Steve Cotter

Steve Cotter has taken his terrific KB Encyclopedia series to a new level with Volume 2. As always, his attention to detail and clarity of explanation is flawless. Steve brings true innovation to fitness training. I especially enjoyed his workalong DVD. It was the most balanced and interesting workout I have seen on a workalong DVD. There are many good workalong DVD's out there (I think I own most of them.), but Steve's is the ultimate. The workalong DVD alone is worth the asking price. I hope he considers doing more in future DVDs. Don't pass up this second edition.

Keith Hendricks — Chicago, IL

WOW!!!

This DVD is a must have for any Kettlebell fanatic. Steve Cotter has a very clear instructing style for all the exercises on this 5 Disc DVD set. Yes, 5 discs!!! My wife has missed me for the last 3 days, while I've been in the backyard watching and performing the DVD exercises.

Honestly, it's only been 3 days and my arms are starting to look a little like Steve Cotter's already. That made my wife happy.

Buy this DVD, it looks fantastic on the shelf beside The Pavel Collection.

Ryan Shanahan — Toronto, Canada

Steve Cotter is Amazing!

I own the first Encyclopedia Series and use many of the moves from that on a daily basis. I didn't think there would be much more to teach since Volume 1 covered every kettlebell move I would ever need (or so I thought). His Encyclopedia Volume 2 blew me away. This is definitely not for beginners but if you've been lifting kettlebells for a year or more and are confident your form/technique is down to a science then you absolutely CAN'T miss out on the Volume 2. It has opened my eyes to where my weak links are in my strength training. Some of the moves on his Volume 2 I couldn't even do with the 16kg kettlebell....and I can snatch the Beast for reps!! He is nothing short of amazing in the execution of his moves, strength, physique, and natural ability to teach and convey his message in easy to understand terms. If I ever meet Steve I'm going to shake his hand and thank him for giving me the motivation to improve myself more and more. I thought I had these kettlebell things conquered but, after watching Volume 2, I have once again been humbled and realize I have a long ways to go before I get to his level. Thanks for another great product Steve, between your Volume 1 and Volume 2 Encyclopedias; I will have great reference material for the rest of my life. I'm going to go work on those front lever squats now.

SSgt Davis — Nellis AFB, NV

Reviews on Full KOntact Kettlebells DVD, Volume 1

Steve Cotter's DVD Full KOntact kettlebells is a tremendous asset to anyone wishing to greatly enhance their performance in their chosen sport, activity or physical conditioning. I highly recommend it.

John Brookfield, Author of Mastery of Hand Strength, Multiple World Record Holder

I received the DVD a few days ago, right in the middle of finals week. I had a lot to study, but after watching the incredible intro to the video, I could not stop watching.

Steve does an incredible job of explaining a martial arts principle, rooting, and then reinforcing it with kettlebell exercises. The techniques in here are very powerful!

Tyler Hass, RKC, Power Athletes Magazine, Pullman, WA

Steve, I'm about 15 minutes into your DVD and just wanted to congratulate you on your great work. The explanations are thorough, logical, and you've done a great job in explaining the martial arts carryover from KB training.

I'll send you a note when I've completed the DVD but so far I'm super impressed!

Thanks again...

Charles Staley, Staley Training Systems, Las Vegas, NV

Steve Cotter's DVD is Outstanding!

I finally had a chance to watch Steve's DVD and I am really impressed. The quality is top notch (no camcorder in someone's basement). Steve's DVD begins with a real cool music video that shows Steve displaying some incredible feats of strength and conditioning.

Steve speaks very well on the DVD and is clear and concise at all times(no umms, uhhs, etc). It is apparent that Steve knows a great deal regarding the subject matter that he is covering and that he put a lot of energy and time into the content of the DVD.

Steve makes many of the exercises that he covers look easy. However, when you try some of them, you will be amazed at how difficult some of them are. Fortunately, Steve shows you clearly how to work up to the exercises and what you need to focus on for proper execution.

I really like the rack weaving and shuffles and can definitely see how they will be beneficial to any athlete.

I like the one-legged deadlifts with kicks as well. very cool drill that will carry over to the martial arts.

The real sign that Steve's DVD is great is that when it is over, you cannot wait to see Steve's next DVD.

Finally, every exercise on Steve's DVD has a purpose. No fluff or wasted space. Steve maximizes every minute.

If you are a martial artist, then you have to get this DVD. If you are a serious athlete or simply a kettlebell fan that wants to take his or her game up a notch, then you will love this DVD.

Great job Steve!

Mike Mahler, Strength Coach, Los Angeles, CA

I really liked your DVD. It was light years ahead of everyone in your market. You've set the bar very high for the other RKC trainers.

The presentation was awesome. You did the right thing waiting until you were assured that you would be selling a first rate product. IMO it was better than Steve Maxwell's video and more organized. I'm not putting down Steve's great video, just comparing a similar product.

The content is great. If I had not started Hsing-i training I may have not understood some of your concepts. Great video.

Ellis Jones, San Diego, CA

I received your video on Monday. Very well done. I like that you explained the "why and how it works" and behind the drills, rather than just, "do this b/c it works". The progression from BW drills, to drills with racked KBs to drills with KBs overhead (extreme compromise) was nice, and gives people a way to progress and refine. The setting was nice as well. The plants in the background were a nice touch (was that planned, or were they just there?) and makes the video warmer, rather than just a room with white walls. As someone mentioned on Dragon Door, everything is presented in a relaxed and confident manner. There is no fumbling with words or any uhs and ahs. You present yourself in a way that makes the viewer feel that you know what you're doing. Great job. The quality of the DVD itself is excellent, from the menu to the quality of the picture. The DVD label and the box are also very well done and look very professional.

Things that I personally got out of it: re-enforcement of the usefulness of rack and overhead holds and walks. I need to do more of those.

I think you did a great job, and I'm sure a lot of people will be surprised to hear this is your first video.

By the way, the intro was spectacular. Show off. Can't wait for Volume 2!!!

Thanks, and great job,

Eric Tiarks, Omaha, NE

I just received your DVD and will listen to it in great detail when my boys aren't vying for attention. What I've seen so far was very professional, clearly explained & shot, which is trickier to accomplish than it would seem. Conveying information with clarity is an invisible (or at least under appreciated) skill. It was exciting to see you include some excellent Hsing-I at the intro, and even a taste of Bagua! I would imagine that for many of the DD gang, this will be their first exposure to internal art done with genuine martial intent.

Barry Crain, Chicago, IL

Full KOntact KB is an excellent DVD, showcasing Steve Cotter's ability to apply martial arts thinking to strength training and showing clear progression in KB drills that anyone, regardless of MA style or fitness level will find useful.

David W.

I just received my DVD and want to tell you how awesome it is! I really appreciate the way you explain the principles and combine the strength and conditioning of the KB with martial drills. The exercises you demonstrate will make any serious practitioner a powerful martial artist. Your teaching style is very clear and informative. You are a true inspiration!! Thank you for making such a quality product. I'm really looking forward to your next one!

Mahalo,

Susan R, Kapaa, HI

Get Steve Cotter's video!

It is a superb exposition on strength training, specifically designed with Xingyi (his art) in mind. It is a great conditioning video, but it has the added advantage of having some great excerpts of Steve in motion — something you have to see to really appreciate. By all means, use this resource. Aloha!

Makena White, Honolulu, HI

I just finished watching Vol. 1 of Full KOntact Kettlebells and I can't recommend it enough. The video is very high quality and full of great drills that any martial artist will find invaluable.

Bill Ripley — Watkinsville, Georgia

Watched Full KOntact last night for the first time. This DVD is awesome. Steve Cotter has created a highly-energized, highly scientific training DVD. I have been using KB's for a little over a year. I also train Police and Fire recruits with KB's and am a beginning martial artist. This DVD goes a long way in providing some very high-level training ideas.

Steve A. MS, H/FD, CSCS

Steve Cotter's Root DVD is awesome!

Steve's DVD is excellent material with fairly high production quality.

For anyone interested in primal movement, the basis of athletic development, and truly working your body as a unit — Steve's DVD is perfect. He goes over many drills and the theory behind the drills as well. I would add this to the must have library: it is applicable to almost any sport, pattern of movement, and overall coordination.

Many of the basic principles of rooting into the ground for increased power are those which are most quickly forgotten. Steve brings them back up as an interest with fresh drills and insight into why they are so important.

Of course, Steve demonstrates everything perfectly and the demo section is enough to make one jealous — particularly the jump-switch splits between the swiss balls. For those who haven't seen it: he has two half swiss balls which he balances on in a suspended front split. He then jumps in the air from that position, switches legs, and lands in another front split. Quite impressive.

Chris Muscarella, Annapolis, MD

It's a great video...

Steve,

It's a great video, every drill was one that was clearly applicable and easy to integrate into training... that's what has me eager to get the others as soon as you release them... April is too long to wait, though!

JLB

I finished watching Steven Cotters DVD, Full KOntact KettleBells Vol. 1, last night for the 3rd time.

I'd have to say Steve's DVD is breath of fresh air when it comes to Martial Arts related fitness videos or DVDs. Absolutely no mysticism, BS, or outlandish claims.

The Full KOntact KB DVD is a reflection of the man who put it together, direct and to the point. No complicated routines or rehashing of old tired ideas. Steve doesn't try to fluff up his presentation with any worthless exercises, he gets down to business with a handful of useful KB exercises. Steve doesn't just show you how to use KBs to build strength and power for MA, but more importantly to use them to build strength and power for those times you're not in an advantageous position.

If you are interested in MA or KBs, I'd recommend you buy Steve's DVD.

Batboy2/75

The swing as Systema....

on Vlad's tape "strikes" he shows a "chest punch". The hip snap generated by Cotter's 2.5 pood 2 handed swing is basically a hip punch — the martial applications of the movements demonstrated can't be questioned.

Bill Fox, Attorney, Philadelphia, PA

It was great to hear your clear and concise explanation on the DVD. It was great to see that your video catered to those of us who enjoy the martial arts.

I enjoyed your DVD very much. I watched it for the second time last night. The concepts make a lot of sense and I enjoyed your explanations. Your body positioning discussions are very good and make sense. Additionally, as a martial artist, I am trying out the shuffling and weaving and will work on the Dragon weaving next. I had an acl reconstruction last year so I am going to work into that slowly. I am looking forward to the next DVDs in your series.

May I be so bold to suggest that you may want to put out your own IMA videos. It is clear that your understanding of body mechanics is superior and your own conditioning is very enviable. Watching the trailer was quite visually appealing. There may be a market for someone with your ability to clearly impart concepts to bring the concepts of the internal Chinese arts to the public. I know I would welcome them in order to understand arts I do not practice. Looking forward to your seminar.

Jim Tirey, Martial Artist, MD

For anyone who has Steve Cotter's Full KOntact Kettlebell DVD —

I got my copy yesterday and was wondering if anyone else who has seen it had to pick their jaw up off the ground when he was doing the jump splits between the half balance balls? Or how about the pistols holding two kettlebells in each hand "waiter press" fashion? I was really impressed with Steve at the last RKC Cert. and after watching his DVD I was just blown away.

This is a must have for any martial artist who's serious about their training. I can hardly wait for volume two.

Great job Steve!

Stay Strong,

Mike Johnson, RKC

Steve, finally saw it this week, SHUGYO!

Great production quality, even better content. I've been playing with movement drills for awhile, but now I have some new stuff to work on. I just got done designing my program for the next 6 weeks and I had to throw some of your stuff in there. Truly a great DVD, from a great Sifu.

Shugyo!

Dylan Thomas, Virginia

The opening sequence of "Full KOntact KBs — The Martial Art of Strength Training"... is one of the most excellent pieces of film I've ever seen!

After only a quick viewing of the instructional portions, they seem extraordinary as well. I've not yet had an opportunity to review those parts with the concentration of a lesson-setting that I do plan to devote ASAP, but I'm really looking forward to absorbing the teaching.

For the past week, each morning, my twin 3.5 year old sons, before requesting any children's programs, have been demanding, "Daddy, we want to watch your friend, Steve Cotter, with the kettlebells". I've played and watched the opening sequence with them about 15 times. (To the point where I anticipate the small puff of dirt Steve kicks up as his foot sweeps along the ground in the slow circular walking portion at the beginning, as the music starts to play and the rays of sunshine beam down — wow, great production.) The kids and I wish that opening sequence was at least 30 minutes long. It's amazing! Side effect of these viewings is that the outstanding (I believe original, yes?) music has been bouncing around the inside of my head all week. Bravo, Steve!

"Root" is excellent. Sign me up for Vols. II & III.

Comrades, the Steve Cotter DVDs should be a mandatory holding of every Party member's viewing library.

Edward Friedman, Long Island, NY

I got your DVD which is great. I was very impressed with the content and the production. It is so rare to find someone that comes up with something new and your concept of training in a "position of vulnerability" is definitely a must for any martial artist. I look forward to volume 2!

George Hynec, Australia

I went to one Mr. Cotter's Classes in San Diego and I was taken aback by the depth of knowledge and practical applications he bestowed. A few of us got together and viewed the DVD that we purchased and were pleasantly surprised by the realistic information and manner in which it was presented. He is exceptionally well versed in the Martial Arts and how to augment your prowess with the addition of Kettle Bell strength training. Thank you!

J. E. F., Phoenix, AZ

Reviews on Full KOntact Kettlebells DVD, Volume 2

I've watched about half the DVD (Vol. 2). I can honestly say that I've probably learned more from half of Vol. 2 than any other video I've ever received (and I do learn from every video produced by you and your fellow RKCs).

I have been involved in teaching since I was a teenager (teaching Sunday School in my dad's church). Now I am an assistant pastor in charge of the teaching ministry in our church and am also a professional history teacher in a local school. The reason I'm mentioning this is because I think I recognize good teaching when I see it. Your Vol. 2 is loaded. I especially appreciate the progression of body weight only instruction, KB added, and application to the martial arts. I was a head football coach for nearly a decade and still love discussing strategies and techniques with others in the field. I've been replaying each exercise/movement and thinking about their applications to the gridiron.

I'm excited to watch the rest, but had to let you know my immediate impressions.

Again, great job on the DVD. Looking forward to future installments! I have enough to keep me busy for a while though!

Grateful for your work and creativity in the field,

Jon Schultheis

I was awestruck watching your second DVD. In fact, I am still "troubled" how you did the splits on the Bosu and then jumped to opposite side splits on DVD 1 from the split position! Well were do I start — first of all the dynamic movements illustrated with martial arts movements only underline the value that KB training has for so many applications (be it ballistic, ROM, flexibility, focus, balance etc.). I watched the DVD again the following day trying to absorb some of the subtleties that you so eloquently demonstrate.

The ability to dissect each complex series of moves into the basics is what I have learned to appreciate from your instruction and unless these are mastered there is no chance to use heavy KBs as technique will be your weakness. The combination of movements requiring balance (duck squats coupled with pressing) only serves to illustrate how much can be done in such a small space with so very few items such as a couple of KBs. The beauty of your routine is that it is something that one can grow into (for example the shoulder dislocates look ever so easy, yet take a short towel like you demonstrate and one clearly learns the limitations of shoulder flexibility for most) yet have much satisfaction along the way.

What I especially like are the fluid motion (surely your Kung Fu background) of your drills coupled with grueling work required (as evidenced in the 1-count snatch!). I have seen many of the KB DVDs out there and I think your second DVD is at the top in taking the basic exercises to a new level. The towel swings are an ab/oblique 'dream' — don't tell my wife about the towel please!

Your creativity and dedication to excellence is much appreciated and I only wish I could train with you more often. Living in Switzerland has its limitations, however I look forward to our annual session and your next DVD.

Keep up the great work!

Ed Sherman, Geneva Switzerland
(father of 5 and 51 and still going strong....)

The DVD is a classic!

I believe it is the best and most impressive kb DVD on the market.

The format is very effective — kb drill then it's application.

If there are any doubters out there, showing them this DVD will certainly convert them.

Your life long dedication to your training and your art has culminated in a real masterpiece. Great job!

Rick Ravensdale, Australia

I finally got a chance to sit down and watch your entire DVD. Great stuff! The exercises you propose are like base kettlebell movements on steroids! Combining things like rack holds, snatches and presses with footwork, flexibility and agility movements is a fantastic combination. It targets all the physical attributes a martial artist needs. I am going to start incorporating many of these movements into mine and my student's current training circuits.

Kenneth Blackburn, Michigan

Got the DVD late last week and reviewed it quickly before going out of town. An excellent DVD, and a huge improvement in structure and quality from Volume 1 (which was also an excellent DVD, don't get me wrong). A lot of the movements you went over with us in Chicago, but you went through them in much more detail on the DVD. There were obviously some movements I haven't seen before, but they were very easy to see and understand due to the way you taught them. It was also fun to see you tossing someone around (although I think you took it easy on him...heh).

Simple is better, and the apps you demo'd for the movements were right on. The key word is 'instructional', and without someone to convey the movements in a manner that is conducive for the viewer in understanding and applying the techniques, a DVD is worthless. You'll never have to worry about such a thing. Your knowledge of the movements and ability to teach them leaps off the screen. Great job Steve.

Eric Tiarks, Iowa

I anxiously awaited viewing Steve Cotter's new DVD. His first DVD was very impressive and concise. He pioneered the ideas of positions of strength, and positions of compromise when performing martial based strength moves. His opening sequence would impress anyone, even hard core martial arts practitioners like myself. It would be a hard act to follow. Well,..guess what? Steve's NEW DVD IS WAY, WAY, BETTER.

It is hard to imagine anyone taking an internal martial art like Hsing I, applying the use of kettlebell technology, and coming up with a better DVD than Steve did. It is just that good. Steve reviews the components of Volume One, and demonstrates their combative applications in a demo that shows Steve has skills that work rather than just look pretty. Steve then expands on this base of movement mechanics into other variables such as waist and torso motion, and extensive legwork. Steve's leg strength is nothing short of remarkable throughout the program. Beginners should be forewarned to spend ample months practicing the moves from Full KOntact One before even venturing into the eerie netherworld of Full KOntact Two. What was particularly impressive was the sequencing of the movements that Steve teaches. The root motion is taught. The exercise is then shown in the position of strength, then the position of compromise. Finally Steve shows martial applications of each of the exercises that use kettlebells. Particularly interesting is the Duckwalking and Towel Swinging exercises. These are highly advanced exercises and will certainly give the viewer something to shoot for after some foundational training in the basic positions and movements that are taught as part of the Full KOntact curriculum. I highly recommend this DVD for anyone involved in strength training. It is absolutely necessary to own for anyone in martial arts. If however, you are involved in hardcore strength work, extreme conditioning, combat tested martial arts, and Russian Kettlebells, it would be a crime not to buy it immediately. Steve Cotter is spreading his knowledge to the masses. I for one will be listening. This DVD is a SLAM DUNK.

Tom Furman, www.physicalstrategies.com

Full KOntact Kettlebells, Volume II: Applied Strength is a totally awesome follow up to Steve's first DVD. The innovative movements he presents are pure gold for any martial artist. As a martial artist, kettlebell and fitness enthusiast, I was blown away by this DVD. Get it!

Richard Haviland, New York City

I finally got the chance to watch your new DVD a couple of nights ago. You must be from another planet! Krypton maybe??.. Watching you perform the various drills included was both awe-inspiring and daunting at the same time!! Due to my past injuries and current flexibility issues, I'm not sure how many of the listed drills I'll actually be able to incorporate into my own training. But, regardless of my unique situation, you truly have a gifted ability to convey your training knowledge into an understandable format for your viewing audience. While I'm not involved in the martial arts, it is still readily apparent to me how your info can readily/easily be applied to any martial artist's training.

I personally feel that your ongoing contributions to both the martial arts and kettlebell training have been immeasurable! In short, it has been a real pleasure getting to know you personally and having exposure to your training ideas. Thanks for all you have done & continue to do in spreading your knowledge to an audience hungry for credible training information! In my humble opinion, your DVD is a real value for everything it contains within.

Britt Reese, Dallas, TX

Your DVD came last night, and I had one chance to watch it. Amazing work, you should be proud of what you've accomplished. The drills you show, some of them are downright jawdropping. Once again your talent and imagination have surpassed the competition, and you have created something that is both instructive and entertaining (the application segments shine).

Makena White, Honolulu, Hawaii

I recently purchased your new DVD. I knew I would not be disappointed. Great Job! I WAS HAPPY TO SEE THE CROSS OVER INTO TECHNIQUE. One of the things that impresses me the most about you is your skill in teaching. You are very thorough and take your time. You are very patient and articulate as well. And trust me. I don't give out compliments easy. The only thing I don't like is not having an opportunity to study with you (i.e. not living near you).

Perry Brown II, Columbus, OH

Oh my god! You sir are a mutant. I've never seen anyone move like you. Volume 2 is amazing. Your tying together of kettlebells to Bagua & Xing Yi application is fantastic. When you did the alternating KB snatch and then showed application the light bulbs when off (finally). One, its an application right out of a White Crane form I practice and two, it made me understand the movement you were trying to get me to do for the downward bear during our private training session — letting the body expand and collapse & letting gravity do the work.

Fantastic job. I can't wait to practice these drills and torture my students & clients with them!!!!

Dave Randolph, Louisville, KY

Steve Cotter's new DVD "Full KOntact Kettlebells Volume 2 " is a testament to Steve's devotion to his art. The DVD is very informative and the production is top notched. Steve not only explains the exercises precisely and clearly, but he goes further to show how each exercise can be used in your daily Martial Arts training. I really enjoyed how he showed each exercise first and then showed how it could be applied in a practical situation. It really gave me a deeper understanding of which muscles I should be using during each exercise. Out of five stars I'd give this one a six!!! Great job Steve and I'm looking forward to some more great DVDs like this one.

Christopher Beltrante, ACE, CST