jkconditioning personal training
Last weekend, I was fortunate to attend the DVRT (Dynamic Variable Resistance Training) Level 1 and Level 2 certification hosted by Josh Henkin, a strength coach from Scottsdale, AZ and creator of the Ultimate Sandbag. I knew this course was more than just about “a bag of sand” but didn’t expect to see so many concepts integrated together.

I’m proud to say that I passed my exams and am now Level 1 & 2 DVRT certified! Whoop whoop!

What does this mean? It means I have the training to successfully integrate sandbag training into a traditional fitness program and still teach proper fundamental movement patterns such as the squat and hip hinge while also enforcing core and shoulder stability. Using the Ultimate Sandbag may enhance the teaching of these movements and body positions compared to traditional fitness equipment.

For my top 3 take aways from the DVRT course, check out my guest post on Josh’s Ultimate Sandbag Website:

http://www.ultimatesandbagtraining.com/sandbag-fitness/this-really-isnt-sandbag-training/

 
I also put together this Ultimate Sandbag complex which kicked my butt yesterday! Here’s what I did:

A1. Lateral Deadlift to Clean
A2. Rotation Lunge to Clean
A3. Rotation Lunge to Clean
A4. Cossack Squat

 
As for the reps/sets, I performed 3 reps per exercise per side per set and did 5 total sets with 60-seconds rest. I used a 3/4 full water bladder inside my Ultimate Sandbag – you can hear the water sloshing around in the video (below). This increases the instability of the implement as you can see my weight shift from time to time during the complex. This increases the complexity of the exercises and forces by body to react to the always changing water position in the bag.

If you want to add sandbag training to your program, I recommend Josh’s Ultimate Sandbag. They are made from a durable vinyl with easy to grip handles. Sand filled or water filled options are available. Discloser – I am an affiliate but remember, I only support the best products available.

jon-erik kawamoto fitness coach

To find out more, check out www.JKConditioning.com/USB.

That’s a wrap.

-JK

I am the oldest client at JKC at 79 years, soon to be 80. I started training at JKC July 2021. I started at JKC because two of my three sons Justin and Michael and their partners Andrea and Keir and one of my doctors recommended JKC. They all train at JKC Now my wife Linda trains at JKC too. My third son Jonathan lives in Kingston. There is a congenial community atmosphere at JKC. People are introduced to each other. There is effective personal training at JKC.

JKC was recommended by a previous trainer who followed Jon online. He thought Jon’s approach to training was excellent. JKC employs well educated trainers who are very particular about technique and form. I have never injured myself because the trainers know what they are doing. They can always answer any questions I ask about my training. As well the trainers are friendly contributing to a relaxed and friendly atmosphere at the gym.

I have never previously seen the passion and level of care that Jon and Thomas bring to everyone who works out at JKC. Their knowledge, insight and skills are extraordinary, and they work with everyone individually to ensure the best possible results. The attention to detail and to every person’s specific requirements and goals, and the incredible, constant encouragement they provide, is, in my opinion, what truly distinguishes JKC from any other program in which I’ve participated. I am extremely pleased with the progress I’ve achieved thus far, and it’s largely attributable to Jon and Thomas and the approach they take to training and working with people.

I heard really good things about it from my sister, and I could see the positive results she was getting.  I needed to do something.  I was overweight, depressed, and recovering from a back injury.  I had reached a point where simply getting up out of a chair was becoming difficult.  I knew that if I didn’t do something about it my senior years would be very burdensome to the people close to me.  I’m so glad I did!  After just a few weeks my day-to-day pain was drastically reduced, and my mobility increased. I had the confidence to try sea kayaking, and I now play ice hockey twice a week!

The key difference is the expertise.  The trainers know the gym equipment and the exercises, but they also have degrees in kinesiology, and can apply what they know to your workout.  As someone who was in poor physical condition starting out, I was worried about hurting myself.  Previously I tried an outdoor weekly bootcamp and injured my knee by pushing too hard.  The trainers at JKC constructed a program that started at the right level for me, evolving it as I grew stronger and more fit.  I feel well looked after.

I’m 29 and I just had my 3rd Liftiversary 🥳 at JKC. I chose to train here because of the great word on the street and the fact that at lululemon, we’re encouraged to support our local community. My day-to-day routine is very busy, and I love showing up and having to think very little about my workout. The vibes are always good, my music choice is usually accommodated, and the bys are incredibly supportive and compassionate, helping me reach my goals (even when I had a broken hand). I also get to be my weird self, and am embraced fully.

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