This month, we decided to interview our dear friend and student, Susan. We love having her at North Beach Kettlebell because she’s always comes in with a smile on her face. Plus, she’s consistent, hard working, and pushes herself and her fellow classmates. She really kicked butt in this last challenge we did and so we asked her a couple of questions about her training so she could share her story with you.
North Beach Kettlebell: Do you mind telling us your age and a little bit about your fitness history? What other forms of exercise have you tried or do you currently do?
Susan Kerth: I am 51 years old and have done some form of exercise most of my life. I participated in group classes like aerobics, jazzercise, body sculpt etc. I have also played tennis for the last 8 years.
NBKB: How long have you been swinging kettlebells? & Why did you start?
SK: I started kettlebells 5 years ago thanks to my husband. He had researched kettlebells and decided it looked like an effective type of workout that we could both do at home. I was not happy about going but after our first introductory class I was hooked. The workout was extremely effective and I became aware of how out of shape I really was.
NBKB: How is this different from other things you’ve done?
SK: This workout was different then anything I had ever done. First of all Val didn’t stand in the front of the class with her back to us, she was facing us demonstrating and coaching us through every movement, stopping and correcting as we went. Every other group class I’ve been to I was able to stand in the back and I had no idea if my form was correct or I was using appropriate weights. The class size is small so you can’t hide. In fact, it’s more like personal training. The time also flew by and I was amazed at the muscles that were being used with one kettlebell.
NBKB: What was the difference you saw in your body with our classes? How do you feel?
SK: Kettlebells is the first form of exercise that I’ve done where I have seen a drastic change in my body. My overall body composition has changed. I actually have muscles! I think the first muscle I noticed was definition in my shoulders. Now I feel leaner and definitely so much stronger! It is an all over body workout. No sit ups but my core is stronger than ever. I literally couldn’t hold an 8lb kettlebell over my head when I started and now I can press a 14kg (31lbs!). My strength and endurance are all because of kettlebells. I feel great, my tennis game has improved, I’ve been able to hike with my husband and I’ve definitely gained confidence.
NBKB: You had some tests done recently to determine your life insurance policy premium, can you tell us what they found?
SK: I needed to get a complete physical for life insurance to determine the rates we would need to pay for the policy. My results were at premium level for my age, meaning I am healthy and will pay the lowest rate. I attribute this to kettlebells and also the healthy eating education I have received at NBKB.
Susan took a picture of the test results they gave her. Really Really Cool!
NBKB: Anything else you’d like to add?
SK: The atmosphere, encouragement, challenges and wonderful people at kettlebells keep me from missing a class.
NBKB: Thank you, Susan!
I’m really glad Susan took the time to share her story with you. I love hearing that she dreaded coming at first but that she stuck with it and has helped her reach goals she’s had forever! Goals of being fit and strong and have definition. Goals that she wasn’t able to achieve with other forms of group exercise. Is a real testament to what you can accomplish when you put the work in, like she has.
Great job, Susan! And she’ll see you in class (she’s always here!)
