RKC II Certification
Russian Kettlebell Certification — RKC Level II
RKC Level II is the next step in the RKC coaching pathway.
This two-day certification builds upon the movement principles, assessment skills, and coaching standards established at RKC Level I. Candidates progress into double-kettlebell training, heavier loading, asymmetrical carries, more demanding positions, and advanced coaching decisions.
RKC II is not simply RKC I with heavier kettlebells. Adding a second bell changes the demands placed on the entire body. The load increases, the stance changes, the margin for error becomes smaller, and the trunk must work harder to maintain position.
This is where candidates begin developing what we call “anaconda strength”—the ability to generate and maintain powerful, full-body tension while continuing to move, breathe, and adapt.
Building Upon RKC Level I
RKC Level I teaches candidates to assess movement, establish strong positions, and coach the foundational single-kettlebell skills.
RKC Level II asks candidates to apply those principles under greater load and complexity.
RKC I develops the coaching eye. RKC II challenges candidates to use it.
A current RKC Level I certification is required to attend.
Double-Kettlebell Training
The primary focus of RKC II is double-kettlebell work, including:
- Double Kettlebell Deadlift
- Double Kettlebell Swing
- Double Kettlebell Clean
- Double Kettlebell Front Squat
- Double Kettlebell Overhead Press
- Double Kettlebell Snatch
- Double and Asymmetrical Loaded Carries
Double-kettlebell ballistics require a wider stance to create room for both bells. Once the bells reach the rack position, candidates may need to adjust their stance to establish a stronger and more appropriate position for squatting or pressing.
Candidates will learn how to make these transitions safely, efficiently, and without losing control of the load.
Loaded Carries
RKC II expands the loaded-carry system through several double and asymmetrical variations:
- Farmer’s Walk
- Double Rack Carry
- Offset Walks using kettlebells of different weights
- Cross Walks combining overhead, rack, and suitcase positions
These carries teach candidates how the body responds to uneven loading, shifting centers of mass, and competing stability demands.
They also provide powerful tools for developing grip strength, trunk stability, gait, posture, and real-world strength.
Advanced Assessment
The Turkish Get-Up remains an important part of the assessment process at RKC II.
Each stage of the Get-Up provides information about what the candidate or client may need to open, stabilize, coordinate, or strengthen throughout the body’s movement chain.
Rather than forcing everyone through the same correction, the RKC process teaches coaches to:
Assess → Intervene → Reassess
The updated system continues to draw upon Vladimir Janda’s whole-movement perspective and Thomas DeLorme’s principles of progressive resistance. Together, these ideas help us use strength training to improve movement, resilience, and longevity—not simply to lift more weight.
Stronger Coaching Under Greater Load
As the load and complexity increase, coaching becomes even more important.
Candidates must demonstrate that they can:
- Maintain strong positions with two kettlebells
- Adjust stance when appropriate
- Manage breathing and full-body tension
- Recognize compensations under load
- Select appropriate regressions and progressions
- Coach double and asymmetrical movements safely
- Explain the purpose behind each drill
The physical standards remain demanding, but RKC II is not an exercise in ego lifting. Each drill and test is included to improve the candidate’s understanding of movement, loading, and coaching.
RKC Level II develops instructors who can confidently coach heavier, more complex, and more individualized training.
Two bells. Greater load. Deeper assessment. Better coaching.
The RKC II teaches you to control complexity without losing the principles.