Professional Testimonials
Competent and strong,
Tearing a deck of cards or teaching you your way around the kettlebell,
Chuck Halbakken, RKC does it with ease.
-Pavel Tsatsouline, Chief RKC Instructor
I have had the pleasure of getting to know Chuck well over the past six months or so... Chuck and I have attended several RKC functions together and he has been a Z-Health mentor of mine as I have started my Z journey... Recently, I have brought Chuck in on a consultant basis to San Jose State University to help me work with my "special needs" athletes, you know, those kids who have such severe dysfunction that you need to bring out the big guns... well, I have found mine in Chuck... I like to think that there is next to nothing that comes my way that is outside the scope of my capabilities and this past year has been a humbling experience for me... Chuck has become an invaluable asset to not only me but my program in general... his expertise in not only Z-Health but also kettlebell training and strength and conditioning has created new possibilities for those athletes who I could not help... Chuck, single handedly, has FIXED dozens of my kids who have spent most of their days in sports medicine facilities and PT rehab clinics...
I am truly a student of the game and love to watch other instructors instruct and watching Chuck work his magic is something to behold... He literally has a sixth sense when it comes to instructing... his ability to spot "issues" with movement is nothing short of amazing... He is a kettlebell technician who not only has Hard Style mastered but also Girevoy Sport mastered... This makes him a duel threat... he can adapt to any situation, any client need and deliver results in the first session. So, MODESTO, FREMONT AND SAN JOSE, LISTEN UP! If you are looking for an instructor who can help any need you have, big or small, Chuck Halbakken is your guy... Chronic pain? Asymmetries? Do you want strength? Are you looking to prepare for the RKC? Are you interested in getting super lean? Are you trying to fast track strength? Chuck is your guy...
-Chris Holder, CSCS
Director of Strength, Conditioning, and Performance
San Jose State University, San Jose, CA USA
"Chuck Halbakken knows movement. In fact he knows movement better than virtually any other coach I've met. Sports are all about movement and his skills allow him to train an athlete in any sport and make him instantly better. His knowledge of numerous, diverse training methods from kettlebells to nail-bending combined with his real world experience coaching both high-level athletes and beginners alike make him a top-notch choice for anyone looking to maximize his potential.
What really sets Chuck apart is his ability to see what his athletes are missing and provide the exact drill or exercise needed to correct the problem. His eyes pick up the finer details that the vast majority of coaches miss and the success of his athletes attest to this. In my experience with athletes from all levels of competition and with coaches across the country I've met a small handful that I would recommend without a second's hesitation. Chuck is one of those coaches. Any athlete that has the opportunity to work with Chuck should jump at the chance."
-Mike Yuhaniak, CSCS
Johns Hopkins University Wrestling - S & C Coach
I’ve been in the industry for over 20 yrs. I have meet many experts in all areas of the industry and Chuck is one of the best ..he's ability to find fix and improve peoples performance within minutes of meeting them ..thats why he gets the title of “Jedi Master”, if your looking to get from a to z in nano seconds he's your man!!!!
-Gerard Rush, CEO, rushfitness2go.com
- San Jose, Ca
I recently attended Chuck's kettlebell class at his studio in Modesto. It was a 45 min class that incorporated strength and cardiovascular training. What a great workout! Using just 4 kettlebell exercises he led us through a challenging but enjoyable routine. He also included some functional core floor/work exercises. This is a class that anyone can do and feel successful. Results should include fat loss,strength and flexibility gains. I have been a personal trainer and teaching group exercise for 20 years. I really enjoyed this class and was sore for days!
-Ellen Harrison, ACE Certified Group Exercise Instructor -
Modesto, Ca
"There are few people I would give my unequivocal endorsement to, and Chuck Halbakken, RKC is one of those people. We first met and trained together at the June 2003 RKC Certification. We immediately hit it off and talked training non-stop. We attended another all day KB workshop in July of 2003 with Pavel Tsatsouline and then we both attended the RKC Level II together in June of 2005. We trained and learned together, and in my experience, he has been truly tested in the fire. Chuck has overcome severe back, knee and shoulder injuries to become not only an extremely strong man, but also a gifted and insightful trainer. He can create and adapt programs and exercises to help his clients become stronger, fitter and healthier. His impressive background as a Martial Artist and businessman only add to his skills as a trainer. He has the discipline, knowledge and the focus to help you reach your training goals. Training with Chuck is truly a worthwhile investment in your strength and health."
-Tom Corrigan, RKC-Team Leader
Seattle, Washington
"Chuck Halbakken, RKC is a strong, knowledgeable, and capable instructor. He breaks down the movements in simple terms for maximum results. I have received some excellent training tips from Chuck which I have used myself to maximize training time in my hectic and busy schedule. You will be amazed at what you will learn from Chuck"
-Pete Diaz, Police Academy Instructor
-Sacramento, Ca
Chuck is much more then an excellent kettlebell instructor. His knowledge of z-health is at a frighteningly high level. When he gives you some wrist drills to work on ankle problems you do it because you know this guy knows his stuff. Not to mention that he can bend hefty nails and tear decks of cards in half.
I had the pleasure of assisting along with him at one of the RKC's. Virtually everytime he opened his mouth to correct one of the students it was a simple easy to correct point and always spot on.
Not only would I be happy to train along with him again but I'd actually pay him to teach me a few things.
-Logan Christopher - Santa Cruz, California
I recently attended a workshop at F2 STRENGTH and have to say, it was top quality, and on the same level of quality as the RKC. The training is excellent for the novice or the advanced athletes, each will benefit according to their ability to understand. The instructors are extremely qualified and are excellent communicators. I will use the mobility drills I learned to help myself and my students move correctly. I can't wait until the next F2 STRENGTH workshop!
-Eric Kenyon, RKC
Colfax, Ca
I am an RKC I travel 3 hours to work with Chuck. His knowledge of kettlebell is quite deep. He tightens up my form everytime I see him. I enjoy his smooth and relaxed teaching style. I went to another RKC workshop, the only thing I learned was how many reps he could do with his 88's; then he showed us. When going to Chucks I always become A BETTER RKC.
-Mike Davis, RKC
Three Rivers, CA
I had the pleasure of having Chuck as one of my teams leaders during my RKC Certification weekend last February in San Jose. His insight as a true strength master was evident to all members of my team. There was not a single break where we would not discuss his ability to make a profound improvement through terse advise. If all of us in the team were able to absorb so much from Chuck in a brief three days, I can only imagine what training under him must be like. If you are in Chucks area I highly encourage you to go and experience what elite training is all about.
-Os Aponte, RKC
- San Diego, CA
I first met Chuck at the RKC Certification Workshop in Feb 2008. I was attending the workshop to earn my RKC certification, and was lucky enough to have Chuck as an Assistant Team Leader. He is a tremendously knowledgeable and skilled mentor. He is an exceptional instructor and trainer because of his drive and desire to help people. He has a great positive energy that truly makes one feel open and at ease.
It was great to see him again this past weekend at Pavel's Stretching and Abs workshop. He is always eager to share his experience and knowledge.
-Robin Sinclear, RKC - Chico, CA
KOR Fitness, LLC
It doesn't matter if your goals are Girevoy Sport, card tearing, ape strength, getting rid of the kinks and creaky joints associated with everyday life,or a healthy combination of all of the above Chuck has an answer for you.
His combination of a diverse education and straight razor sharp business skills make him uniquely qualified to identify and eliminate weakness in your skills no matter where they may lie.
If you are looking to step up your game by several notches, Chuck is your man.
-Jesse S. Smallwood, RKC
-Level 2 Z Health Professional Trainer
- Chicago,IL USA
As a coach and fitness professional I'm rather particular about who I work with and Chuck is definitely on my "A" list. After watching him train an athlete using kettlebells I knew he was the guy I wanted, no needed, to teach me. His ability to see my problem and correct it is second to none. Because Chuck "owns" movement he can demonstrate proper form so you can learn faster. Watching good form makes learning so much easier. When our session is over I know exactly what I need to practice so I get better fast! Training with Chuck would be bargain at twice his rate.
-Scott Peery - Bend Oregon
Z-Health Performance Solutions Master Practitioner
CHEK Golf Biomechanic
Chuck has elevated my game with kettlebell training. His progressions
and techniques have increased my functional strength levels beyond
anything I've experienced . . . even through-out my sports experience.
I love to throw . . . anything! Throwing a football is like therapy
for me. My rotator cuff is now stronger than it has ever been in my
life. Chuck's concepts, philosophies, and techniques have shaped my
own training with my clients. His presentation is excellent! He
delivers the information with conviction, confidence and an expertise
that is truly refreshing. He understands what works the best and what
doesn't work. With Chuck there is no wasted time or effort. He's
honest, straight forward and acknowledges your effort. He is the best instructor I have ever had the pleasure of working beside.
-Paul Walker
- Modesto, CA USA
Chuck Halbakken (F2Strength) offers hands down the best training experience in the Modesto area. I have worked with Chuck on many occasions and always am impressed with his abilities. Chuck's methods are very specific, understandable and easily adaptable. I highly recommend Chuck and his services.
-Ken Black, TheOtherSideofStrength.com
-Sacramento, Ca
I must say that Chuck Halbakken is one of the most knowledgeable trainers in his craft. His strength is definitely something to take note of as well. Chuck can make some of the most challenging feats look like a walk in the park. I've seen him bend thick steel nails with his bare hands. (I tried it and could barely budge a small bend and I'm a 230 lb. bodybuilder!) A deck of cards were torn two times over in all of about 2 seconds. A phone book... no problem, he can rip it like a business card. Chuck can hold 2-24 kg. kettlebells and do a squat on a bosu ball... on one foot!
Not only is he a strong man, but also an incredibly knowledgeable inspirational leader here at Gold's Gym. His clients come to him with every question in the book and he knows every answer you can throw at him. Chuck has shown the ability to train every type of client. He has physically limited people accomplishing things they could not do in their wildest dreams. No matter what your fitness level ability is, Chuck can design the best program to fit your needs. Kettlebells are his main tool and he can make everyone he comes across into a true believer and that is his work of art.
Chuck is professional, courteous, but to the point. His technical knowledge on kettlebell training and Z-Health is unparalleled by anyone I have come across in my lifetime. (I have been managing gyms for the last seven years) Most of all, Chuck is a gentleman and a great guy to work with.
-Tobias Young
General Manager, Gold’s Gym Modesto
Chuck is non-stop fitness and strength
I started training in gyms at sixteen, I`m now 68 and have been exposed to many fitness trainers. Chuck is one of the best I have ever seen.
Senior Olympic Gold Medal Winner Cycling 2004
Wentzel World Championship Coaching
Wheels of Thunder Racing Team
-Joe Cursey
- Ripon, Ca
At the RKC in San Jose this past weekend, Chuck was one of my instructors. He is attentive, personable, extremely knowledgeable, and the best part: he enjoys what he does and passes that along. He gave me many tips over the three days that made me better in all ways; stronger, more efficient and more precise. He knows his stuff and anybody working with him will reap the benefits and rewards.
-Dan Peven, RKC
- Berkeley, CA
Chuck was an instructor in my RKC group last weekend. I was immediately impressed by how quickly he could spot a form error and how clearly he could explain it. He helped tighten my technique A LOT!
I would highly recommend him to kettlebell users who want to take their form to the next level. It really is all about the form if you want to get great results without injury or strain.
He is super kind and has great energy. You can tell that he really cares about everyone he trains.
-Charlie Fields, RKC
- San Diego, CA USA
Chuck was one of my instructors at the RKC last weekend in San Jose and he was terrific. He was a very quiet instructor but when he had something to say it was very insightful and helpful with my technique correction. I owe a lot of my technique correction to him.
Thanks Chuck!
-Doug
- San Bruno,CA
Chuck is a genius! After all the great techniques mastered at the RKC, the most skilled eyes of a Kettlebell trainer cannot convey the information for the ultra weak posterior chain of a client. The client understands but still cannot generate the "snap". A combination of some great mobility drills and the Halbakken swing your client will create the neurological chunk needed to master the kettlebell swing! The Halbakken Swing should be added to the course! Superb information Chuck thank you!
-Kathy -
Phoenix AZ
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Chuck Halbakken this weekend over the past 3 days at the RKC Level 1 certification seminar in San Jose CA on February 20-22. His no-nonsense approach to strength training and fitness allows a person to achieve fitness in the standard areas that most people look at (i.e. muscle mass and fat mass), but also on flexibility, power, speed, strength endurance, which truly knowledgeable consumers aspire for.
For those who are skeptical of what they might encounter if they meet Chuck, my message to those individuals is to say that I feel like a fortunate person because I had the opportunity to come across a person of his breadth and depth of knowledge about physical fitness as well as physical wellness.
It has been said that you get what you pay for. With Chuck, you get what you pay for and then some more in addition to that. For those who put a premium on strength and fitness knowledge, this is pretty close to being as good as it gets.
For those who need pain relief, improved health, performance and a more efficiently functioning brain, Chuck is capable of helping with that because of his Z Health credentials. If you want to learn to tap into the power of your nervous system to feel better an increase performance, look no further than Chuck Halbakken, who is one of the most qualified practitioners of Z health in the entire United States.
Finally, it is NOT practice which makes perfect, but rather PERFECT practice that makes perfect. If you want to learn the latter, then look no further.
-Mahidhar Reddy -
Fremont, CA
I worked with Chuck during my RKC 2009 in San Jose. He provided excellent detailed feedback and technique improvement suggestions that made a huge difference in what I looked like by day 3 (besides tired!).
Thanks to him, my technique has greatly improved and his sense of humor is also a great motivator!
-Michaela Zwinakis, RKC -
Woodside, CA
I also worked with Chuck at the 09 RKC in San Jose. He was specific, simple and I could tell that he truely wanted all of us to succeed and finish. I admired his attention to detail and his high reguard for the RKC System and RKC Code of Conduct. If you're near Modesto and want to learn and grow, find Chuck.
-David Bradley -
Encino, CA
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