Kettlebell AKC vs. RKC

Kettlebell training is like the martial arts. There are different schools, styles, and techniques. This is also true for the American Kettlebell Club and the Russian Kettlebell Challenge.

  1. Shared Origin

    • Both styles have Russian origins.

      Don't let the names confuse you, both organizations have their origins with Russian immigrants. World Champion Valery Federenko immigrated from Kyrgyzstan to the United States in 1999, carrying out his first public demonstration of kettlebell training in 2000. He's head instructor of the AKC and founder of the World Kettlebell Club (See Ref 1). In 1998 Pavel Tsatsouline wrote an article on kettlebell training, catching the attention of Dragon Door Publications and its founder, Jon Du Cane. Together they formed the RKC (See Ref 2). When it comes to exercises, both schools use many of the same techniques: the swing, the clean, the snatch. However, the exercises emphasized change with the goal of the school.

    Iron Form Kettlebells

    • The RKC uses "Hardstyle" training (See Ref 3). Throughout the course of a movement, it requires a person to alternate between states of complete relaxation and intense full-body contractions. This is very similar to techniques used by Okinawin karate specialists and Soviet trained soldiers. The latter group implemented both kettlebells and karate influenced combat training as part of their normal regimen. RKC master trainer, Andrew Read, notes that much like martial artists, RKC trainees "don't workout, we practice" (See Ref. 3).

    Water Form Kettlebells

    • The AKC could be thought of a soft style but that shouldn't be misconstrued as easy. AKC training is preoccupied with kettlebells through the lens of sport.There are three primary events: the jerk, clean and jerk, and snatch. These events are conducted within brutal 10 minutes cycles (See Ref 2). As such, the AKC is more concerned with the development of muscular endurance than raw strength. Also of note, the AKC reverses the breathing patterns used by the RKC in an attempt to conserve energy for the long duration programs. Whereas the RKC promotes short, intense contractions, the AKC promotes fluid movement.

    Conclusion

    • Even though both systems are kettlebell driven, they're different as night and day. RKC Hardstyle is best defined by its emphasis on skill development and brief, explosive movements for the purposes of strength and cross-training. Mixed Martial Artist find they're able to conserve energy for the cage, while employing RKC principals. Although the AKC is just as skill oriented as the RKC, it's a sports-specific training program. As with most fitness decisions, choosing which to use comes down to personal goals. If you're looking for a system to supplement your current program or are simply looking for a new strength training program, the RKC is a good fit. If you're fascinated with the idea of competing, go with the AKC.