I have been involved in strength training, either as a coach or competitor, for over 20 years…

When I retired from competition in 1995, due to shoulder injuries, I had resigned myself to never lifting heavy weights again. Meeting you in july 2005 changed all that. After useing kettlebells, for nearly five months, under your instruction and guidance, I have experienced incredible gains in energy, strength, explosiveness, power, speed, overall co-ordination, balance and flexibility. I can now realisticly consider a return to powerlifting competitions.

I have had contact over the years with many trainers and coaches, and Ben, you are second to none. You are a wealth of knowledge on all aspects of strength training and your teaching techniques are simple, but effective. If anyone is looking for the ultimate training tool and trainer, I have no hesitation in recommending russian kettlebells and Ben Minos.

T Comerford, 40yrs old, Yeronga

6cm off my waist in the first 4 weeks alone!

I have been training with Ben and solely using Kettlebell’s for 2 months since changing from conventional weights and cardio. The results speak for themselves, having lost 6cm off my waist in the first 4 weeks alone! My flexibility and functional strength have progressed far quicker than other training and is really noticeable in my work.

And if you want a kick arse cardio workout, try the Snatches Challenge. You will sweat a bucket loads and get an awesome strength / cardio workout in just 6 minutes. But the best thing about Kettlebell’s is that you can work out anywhere and get a real world beneficial workout in a short time.

P O’Hara, 35yrs, Brisbane

Since starting with Kettlebells 6 weeks ago, I have noticed increases in my strength and flexibility…

I would like to say a huge thank you to Ben Minos for his thorough Kettlebell instruction and guidance, I have been waiting for a Kettlebell instructor of Ben’s quality to come to Brisbane and teach for some 2 years now, and I am truly grateful Ben did that.

Since starting with the Kettlebell 6 weeks ago I have noticed increases in my strength and flexibility, and am already requiring an increase in my Kettlebell weight – awesome! The greatest thing for me though was the increase in flexibility through my arthritic joints from Kettle bell training. So thanks Ben, I look forward to more workshops!

K Gibson 28, Director Boot Camps Australia & PT Studio’s Australia

Kettlebell training has completely changed the way I approach fitness.

Kettlebell training has completely changed the way I approach fitness. Up until now, I have used a wide variety of training equipment and techniques in search of the illusive balance between brute practical strength and athletic endurance and stamina. Previously, the only way I was able to reach this goal was to delve into many activities during my training week which often lead to over-training fatigue, injury, boredom and ultimately an unmotivated approach to fitness.

Kettlebell’s work for me as an all encompassing fitness solution. I train three to four times a week with no real set routine, but try to balance out explosive and grind drills. I find this instinctive approach to training a real motivator and compels me to explore the seemingly endless array of drills kettlebell’s has to offer.

Now, the demands of my part time jobs as a climbing instructor and Army Reservist seem all too easy. But more importantly, the brevity of the workouts and not needing to reach fatigue, for maximum results makes my life as a full-time student exponentially easier.

Do yourself a life changing favour; make a booking with Ben Minos. Once you’ve completed the immaculately delivered workshop, you will be armed with the knowledge and basic skills from which all your drills will stem, and trust me just when you think everything is getting easy, Ben will be able to cook things up for you… real hot!!! I’m now moving my way up to my final goal of swinging around a pair of 32kg wrecking balls with Ben to thank! Plus, my previously non existent flexibility is now through the roof, an unforeseen added bonus.

P Kabi, 24yrs, Brisbane

Far better results than I have ever achieved in standard gym sessions, with the added bonus of significantly improving my physique in such a short time.

I first discovered Kettle bells approximately three years ago when I read some articles by Pavel in an American strength training magazine. At the time I purchased three bells which I trained with sporadically and using only a limited range of exercises I taught myself from a couple of books. Needless to say the results were less than impressive, although I intuitively knew that KBs were an awesome training tool and that I was limiting my success through not seeking proper training in their use.

Well, all this changed three months ago after I read an article about KBs in the Brisbane Sunday Mail. Ben’s contact details were listed and I called him immediately to book some personal training. Now, a couple of sessions a week in the Courage Corner have dramatically increased my strength, endurance and confidence in using these incredible weight training tools. Ben’s instruction has made the session’s great fun whilst also being punishingly hard. In my opinion this is an excellent combination which has delivered far better results than I have ever achieved in standard gym sessions, with the added bonus of significantly improving my physique in such a short time.

So if you are seeking a great challenge and are keen to get the maximum results possible in the shortest period of time, I cannot recommend KBs and Ben’s training enough.

R Triggs, 37 yrs, Director

Kettlebells have helped kick along my strength in the more conventional gym exercises like bench and squat.

Kettlebell training has been the perfect way for me to mix up my training with a full body, high intensity workout. I have found the big three movements (snatch, clean, and swings) have not only improved my general fitness but has helped kick along my strength in the more conventional gym exercises like the bench and squat.

Ben’s instruction is high class and his technique through all the moves is superb. If you want to learn kettlebells there is only one man you should see and that is Ben Minos.

D Strickland, 26, Personal Trainer, Brisbane

I have had to buy new clothes, as the size drop has been that dramatic, and I didn’t mind that a bit!

I had trained for quite a while and maintained a steady weight after a small initial weight loss but was never able to lose any further kg’s due to my stubbornness not to change my diet and lifestyle. I was introduced to the Russian Kettlebell’s and I can honestly state that my weight both in kg’s and body fat has significantly reduced during the last 12 weeks. I have had to buy new clothes, as the size drop has been that dramatic and I didn’t mind that a bit!

The Russian Kettlebell’s are not difficult to learn. I guarantee that you will work all parts of your body in one session. I found muscles that I didn’t even know existed even after 12 months of traditional weight training. It’s low impact (no jogging, pounding of the joints, etc) but you will work up a sweat and definitely feel after each session that you have worked out.

I am definitely a lot fitter, leaner, my body strength has increased and my ability to lift heavier weights in the old style weight training has increased…the rest of my diet stayed exactly the same!! Yet I would like to stress that I have still managed to lose weight.

In a nutshell, if you want to lose weight, tone up and become fitter, healthier and happier with yourself and like me, not a gym junkie personality, then I have no hesitation in recommending that you train using the Kettlebell’s and personally endorse this training style – I think that you will actually enjoy it, mentally you can also make it a challenge should you so desire.

You WILL be surprised by the results that can be achieved over a 12 week period with two training sessions per week – I know I was blown away. 12 weeks isn’t too long to try it out and see for yourself. I doubt that you will be disappointed and that you won’t be recommending it to others in the same fitness situation as yourself.”

B Jones, PA, Brisbane

After a small number of sessions not only did I find my strength levels improve, but I generally felt more energetic.

“After an injury prone season of rugby, I realised that my half baked fitness regime of sporadic visits to the gym with the occasional training sessions were simply not enough.. The options were simple, give up rugby or get my 34 year old carcass into some shape. The cardio and weight session at the gym weren’t doing it for me anymore so I really needed a change.

Kettlebell’s were that change. After a small number of sessions not only did I find my strength levels improve but I generally felt more energetic. The kettlebell regime has proven to be a great full body workout which has dramatically improved my core strength, flexibility and overall levels of fitness. As a bonus I have also started to lose weight. Kettlebells is for anyone looking to not only improve their fitness but surpass their fitness goals no matter what level you are at

After training with a number of Kettlebell instructors, Ben’s technique focused methods were able to surpass any level I had previously set. Ben’s professional down to earth approach would be just as effective for both, an absolute beginner or a seasoned athlete. So in light of this have absolutely no hesitation recommending Ben for either a one on one kettle bell session or class.”

Gregory Andrews, Brisbane

Since using the Kettlebells, I’ve had no back pain while cycling and my overall strength on all my conventional lifts in the gym has also increased.

“As a Personal Trainer and regular exerciser, I’ve found Kettlebell training to only increase my overall strength and agility, but also to make my regular day to day activities so much easier. Kettlebell’s are a complete total body workout.

They’re simple, easy to use and above all, extremely effective. Regular weight training feels like it does nothing after you’ve trained with Kettlebell’s. Since using the Kettlebell’s, I’ve had no back pain while cycling and my overall strength on all my conventional lifts in the gym has also increased. I have no hesitation in recommending Kettlebell’s to anyone who’s interested in increasing their Strength and Tone as well as improving their cardiovascular fitness and decreasing body fat.”

S Wekeem, Personal Trainer, Brisbane

Kettlebells are unlike anything I had tried before…

After reading and wondering for some time about the benefits of kettlebell’s for fitness and sports performance (I do martial arts), I finally decided that I wanted to take the plunge and give these weird looking things a go to find out for myself. Trouble is…where do you go for some proper instruction in a relatively new training implement and method to ensure that you get the most from the ‘tool’ and reduce any risk of injury? No one at the gym I go to had heard of kettlebell’s, including the ‘experienced’ personal trainers. Plus, I take my training seriously and want to know the ‘why’ when I am taught something and not just the ‘how’. The answer to my dilemma came in the form of Ben Minos and The Courage Corner (formerly Sabre Athletic)who were featured in an article in Brisbane’s Sunday Mail newspaper.

After checking out Ben’s credentials and chatting with him I took three private lessons that have now got me hooked and well on the road to the effective and safe use of kettlebell’s. I also know the why, exercise physiology wise, as well as the how (that is, correct execution of the ‘moves’). No doubt Ben could impart this in a group class situation as well…I just chose the one-on-one route to start me off.

Ben is a very knowledgeable guy, and you only have to look at his physique and his kettlebell moves to see that he practices what he preaches. I liked that Ben is a uni qualified physio and exercise physiologist so I know his instruction is based on theory and practice (good from a rehab as well as performance perspective). Above all, Ben is a nice bloke who showed a genuine interest in my desire to learn kettlebell’s, tailored a programme for my needs (rather than just a cookie cutter routine) and instructed with clarity and patience. I certainly plan on having further sessions with Ben, either individually or in one of his group kettlebell classes or Tactical Strength Boot Camp classes.

Kettlebell’s are unlike anything I had tried before and I am finding that they have taken my training enthusiasm to a new level as well as improving my cardio and explosiveness…although it is early days yet in my training so I am looking forward more benefits. So in summary, I would highly recommend you try kettlebell’s as a training aid, and get some professional instruction from Ben Minos.

Dr Brad Bowes PhD, Age 44

We can adopt the exercise training in our own home and achieve all round body fitness…

My wife and I have been using the Kettlebell training for just four weeks and almost immediately began feeling significant benefits. The fact that we can adopt the exercise training in our own home and achieve all round body fitness including muscle toning and weight reduction is great. What is really evident is that the program revolves around continual improvement and provides on-going challenges and definitely not boring!

It also highlights the necessity of an experienced trainer such as Ben Minos to further enhance the effort whilst avoiding unnecessary injury. Ben’s excellent understanding of our individual physiques allowed him to arrange exercise programmes that specifically suit our requirements.

K & B Elsy, aged 50 (but beginning to feel less!), Brisbane

I attended one of his workshops (even though it meant a 5 hour round trip to get there)…and it was worth it!

I found out about Kettlebell via a newspaper article, and after viewing Ben’s website felt he had the experience and knowledge to be able to guide me on the proper use of a kettlebell. I subsequently attended one of his workshops (even though it meant a 5 hour round trip to get there).

And it was worth it. The course showed me how to handle the kettlebell, the basic moves that all kettlebell moves are based around. Ben also gave us guidance on workouts with the kettlebell. His course book has also proved invaluable for me; it’s a bit like my bible at the moment. It’s only been a few weeks so I’m still learning how to make the most of my kettlebell. When I’m ready to move to more advanced techniques, I’ll definitely be calling Ben.

J Bowden, Graphic Designer, Brisbane

Sadly, I had an accident in August 2005. My injuries were very serious. At the start – after waking from a 7 week coma…

I couldn’t talk, couldn’t walk, and started intense therapy at the hospital for 6 months, locked in. During that time, when I was starting to finally get progress from therapy, I had a stroke, which set me way back. Yes, it was hell.

When I started seeing Ben, I wasn’t walking well and my right arm (from the fall and the stroke) was bent up. Since starting with Ben, my life, my attitude and confidence has made me feel back to how I felt before, in fact, much better. With Ben’s diet suggestions and training, I have lost 8 kilo’s in 7 weeks. My strength started out on Bench Press at just 10kg on a smith machine, now I Bench over 40kg free weight and I can now Deadlift over 60kg (Josh’s grip started at less than 10 on a grip dynamometer – Ben). Now I run and my right arm looks like the left. I am stoked.

Apart from my great results, Ben seems to really care. It gives you motivation to want to please him at the next weigh in, or push yourself to work harder. It’s funny ’cause it’s win win when you think about it. At the start I was very self conscious about my injuries, since seeing Ben; I sometimes forget I had a massive injury. Thanks for everything Ben.

Josh Ganim, 24 yrs, Brisbane

Confession time…I’m addicted. I continue to work with Ben both one-on-one and doing his Tactical Strength Boot Camps on weekends. I love it and this experience has given me the drive and desire to exercise every day.

My first contact with Ben Minos was when I sent him an email after I saw his kettlebell advertisement in the City News. Preferring a frank and open approach, I wrote that I ate too much and exercised too little, had some lower back and knee problems but was ready to make some important changes to my lifestyle. Luckily, Ben was up for the challenge and it turns out that kettlebell training with him has been just the right motivation for me to make these changes.

Initially, I completed the 8-week Rapid Response Program. Slowly but surely I saw my strength and fitness increase, watched my measurements came down and felt my wellbeing soar. I found myself bouncing out of bed in the morning even in the dark and cold, eagerly awaiting what Ben had in store for our session. Some days were hard (and still are) but Ben always worked with me patiently and respectfully, helping me break through the next ‘wall’. His expert guidance and keen eye ensured that I learned the kettelbell basics accurately and gave me the confidence to do all the moves. My next challenge is to keep doing the moves but with heavier kettlebells.

Confession time…I’m addicted. I continue to work with Ben both one-on-one and doing his Tactical Strength Boot Camps on weekends. I love it and this experience has given me the drive and desire to exercise every day. I have realised the importance of patience and hard work and appreciate much more now the effort that fit individuals put into their training and health. The physical changes have been fantastic but most of all, I am grateful to Ben for helping me bring about changes in my outlook on life.

Still not sure…I am happy to tell you more. You can contact me via Ben. Good luck!

D. Copak, Brisbane