Interview with Lisa Parsons. Head of Strength and Conditioning at Immaculata University in Malvern, PA and Killing it With Kettlebells (KIWK) certified Kettlebell Instructor

1. When did you first become interested in Kettlebell training?

I first became interested in Kettlebell training as an intern with the University of California San Diego Strength & Conditioning Department. Myself and the other coaches in the department participated in a kettlebell introduction course with an RKC instructor. After moving back to West Chester, I looked up Pat Flynn and soon started training with Kettlebells at the Dragon Gym. I had taken one Kettlebell class with Pat at the YMCA years before and therefore knew he was a knowledgeable KB coach in the area.

2. Why did you decide to enroll at the Dragon Gym?

I was looking for a place where I could learn new things, new ways of training, and get out of the typical fitness center and gym setting. Kettlebells and the coaches at DG offered challenging new training options. As a strength & conditioning coach, I am comfortable with a lot of training styles. However, with kettlebells I had to start

3. How did you get involved with teaching/becoming an instructor?

I currently work as a strength & conditioning coach at a local University. So, I was fortunate to have a solid background and knowledge of training to build on. After training for 6 months at the gym, I signed up for the May 2013 Killing it with Kettlebells. Completing the KIWK cert gave me the techniques and confidence to teach kettlebells to new students.

4. You’re also a certified Kettlebell Instructor. How did you train for that achievement?

To train for the Killing it With Kettlebell certification, I attended two to four kettelbell classes a week at the Dragon Gym. Working with Pat and Som and other regular kettelbell class attendees, I learned the proper techniques needed to become an instructor!

5. Tell me a little bit more about your training regimen, including cross training.

Right now my training is simple. I deadlift and/or front squat 1-2x’s a week. Other strength training is focused on bodyweight movement; push up variations, pull up variations, pistol squats and other single leg training etc. For conditioning, I recently started Muay Thai at the Dragon Gym 2 days a week! I also will add in kettlebell circuits or treadmill sprints if I need more metabolic work.

6. What would your advice be for someone considering Kettlebell training

Just try it! This gym and this training doesn’t have exceptions, anyone at any level can benefit. You will not just learn how to “do kettlebells”. You will learn how to move your body correctly, how to keep your body safe and feeling its best! The strength and power you gain is so rewarding. Aside from physical benefits, the community of people at the Dragon Gym will keep you on track and motivated.

7. What about someone with ambitions of becoming Kettlebell instructor?

This is a great goal. Kettlebells are a great tool to use with so many populations of trainees. The techniques you learn as a kettlebell instructor can be applied to other training mediums. My advice though would be to really put in the time and effort to not rush this process. Learning the movements takes practice and can cause injury if not done correctly. Anyone who wants to be an instructor should take the time to understand and experience your own training before coaching. The Killing it with Kettleblls certification is an excellent way to improve your technique and learn how to teach others.

8. What kind of benefits have you received from your Kettlebell training at Dragon Gym? .

I have increased upper, lower, and core strength with kettlebell training. I’ve been able to keep a consistently more lean and defined physique. My cardiovascular capacity is consistently high despite limited traditional cardiovascular work. One of the best physical changes I’ve experienced is flexibility and mobility! I More than anything I’ve found a community of intelligent, like-minded people, who are truly concerned with helping others find a path to optimal health!

9. What’s your next goal?

My goal right now is to continuing working at Muay Thai so that I am ready to test in April. After testing, I’d like to be prepared to spar before the end of the year. Muay Thai just like kettlebells has offered a new avenue of training that challenges me and utilizes all of the other areas of training I currently do. I can really feel the power and mobility I gained from kettlebell training during Muay Thai.

10. What Fears and Reservations did you have about starting here?

As an athlete growing up, I always had interest in boxing or martial arts. My fear was that the gym was meant for serious and experienced martial artists. The gym does have awesome and impressive traditional martial arts programs, however, all fitness enthusiasts are welcomed! The employees at Dragon Gym help find the program that matches clients ages,

fitness levels, and interests!   Lisa Parsons is a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the NSCA as well as a Killing It With Kettlebells certified instructor. She graduated from the University of Delaware with a B.S. and M.S. in Exercise Physiology and competed in four years of Division I soccer. During her graduate and undergraduate years, Lisa worked at a Christiana Hospital cardiac rehab practice, University of Delaware exercise physiology lab, University of California San Diego Strength and Conditioning Department, and Fitness Quest 10, a privately owned San Diego training facility. Lisa currently works as the head strength and conditioning coach and women’s soccer coach at Immaculata University in Malvern, PA.