KSI level 1 testing requirements
There are 2 test required to complete the KSI1 certification.
Teaching test – I need to watch you teach a short session
I recommend getting in someone that has not done kettlebells, since this makes your “job” easier. You can bring along anyone…even someone who has done KB’s before, and even an “expert” if you like. However, experts won’t make so many mistakes, so you won’t be able to spot these and try to fix them, which makes it difficult for me to see that YOU know what’s what (rather than that they do).
This test can take from 5-20 minutes. I can normally spot if you know what you’re doing within a few minutes.
Fitness test – There are 2 options here.
- KSI snatch only test
- for men – take your bodyweight, round up to the nearest 5kg (eg. 73kg man -> 75). Subtract 15 from that number (75-15=60). You need to perform this many snatches per hand with a 16kg kettlebell. For this example, you need 60 per hand, which is a total of 120 reps…and you may only change hands once. This allows you to do more reps on your dominant side. (eg 70 + 50 = 120)
- for ladies – take your bodyweight, round up to the nearest 5kg (eg. 53kg lady -> 55). You need to perform this many snatches per hand with a 10kg kettlebell. For this example, you need 55 per hand, which is a total of 110 reps…and you may only change hands once. This allows you to do more reps on your dominant side. (eg 60 + 50 = 110)
- CKT mixed test.
The full CKT1 test is as follows: All moves are performed without setting the KB down, so you finish the move, then transition into the next move. Men use 20kg, ladies use 12kg
- Alternating swings – 100 (50 per hand)
- Clean+Press – 2mins per side at 8rpm or higher – ie. 16 per side within 4 mins. Once you have completed a side, you wait in the rest/rack position until the balance of the 2min is finished, then switch sides and continue.
- Snatches – 30 per side for a total of 60 reps (again you can do more on the dominant side eg. 35+25)
- KB front squat (also called a goblet squat) – 2mins at 15rpm or higher – ie. 30 reps within 2mins. If you finish the required reps before the time is completed, you must rest with the kettlebell off the floor.
The KSI 1 version is ~75-80% of this requirement (since it is designed as a prep course for the CKT), so
80 swings…12+12 C+P….24+24 snatches….24 KB front squats
Once these requirements are met, you will immediately be issued with the full certificate.
- There is no expiry or time limit on the KSI tests/certificate.
- You can attempt/complete it on the day if you feel ready, or you can go away and practice, and return when you are ready.
- There is also no limit to the number of times you can try the test(s), and there is no charge/cost associated with the KSI tests.
A certificate of participation can be issued on request while you prepare for the tests