Senior RKC Doug Nepodal first began his personal training career in 1996 in Medina, Ohio, where he was born and raised. Over the next several years, Doug held training certifications from I.S.S.A., A.C.E., Jump Stretch and Parrillo Performance as he progressed through his field of work.
In 2002, Doug discovered Russian kettlebells and integrated them into his own personal routine. Amazed by the possibilities that training with kettlebells offered, Doug became RKC certified in September, 2005 and has not looked back since. He was invited to be an assistant instructor at several RKC certifications in 2006 and 2007, and became thoroughly immersed in the RKC. In the fall of 2007, Doug was appointed to the position of RKC Team Leader by Pavel Tsatsouline, founder of the RKC. Throughout the year 2008, Doug taught at RKC certifications in Denmark, St. Paul, Minnesota, and at UCLA. In September of 2008, three years after first becoming an RKC, Doug was promoted to the position of Senior RKC by Pavel, a rank that only nine individuals hold worldwide.
From 2004 to 2008, Doug owned and operated Better Bodies of Medina, Ohio. At Pavel’s prompting, he sold the practice and moved out to Ventura in February, 2008. Doug currently lives in Carpinteria, CA, and still teaches kettlebell classes in both Ventura and Santa Barbara. Doug also offers private appointments, ranging from Santa Maria to Los Angeles.
Doug Nepodal: Images
Customer reviews of:
Doug Nepodal
Average Rating: 9.9 in 36 reviews
RKC Denmark 2008
Rated 9 out of 10
Doug was my Team Leader at the May 2008 RKC in Denmark. He was very focused and clear as he explained the techniques and critiqued us. Thanks, Doug for the excellent instruction and good time.If you want to learn the correct way to train, get in touch with Doug.
Jon Bagust - Beaconsfield, England
Team Nepodal!
Rated 10 out of 10
I was fortunate enough to be a member of Team Nepodal at the Denmark RKC 2008. Doug really looked after his team and provided exactly the support needed to get through what was an incredibly intense and tough but equally rewarding experience. His technique corrections and coaching were spot-on and with the help of his assistant instructors he completely transformed my own technique over the course of the weekend. I can't recommend Doug highly enough. Thanks!
Tom Nunn RKC - Oxford, UK
RKC cerfification Denmark 2008
Rated 10 out of 10
Its been one week since the RKC 2008 Denmark. I can say This has been one of the toughest 3 days of my life yet the most rewarding. Doug is a great coach with an easy going nature, always getting the teaching points across to you by breaking it down and keeping it simple. I feel honoured to have been in his team at the RKC he has great presence without him I think it would have been harder for me getting through the RKC qualification. Since the course I'm more confident by taking personal training clients and kettlebells classes to the park raising a great deal of interest and awareness also gaining 2 clients in the process. Doug thankyou.
Ivor Christie - Bristol, England
Enjoy the Pain!
Rated 10 out of 10
I started taking Doug's kettlebell classes almost a year ago. I started working out with a 16KG bell and quickly progressed at his direction. I now do my entire workout with a 32KG bell and am stronger than I have been since college. Doug is an awesome instructor who has truly mastered his trade! He has renewed my passion for physical fitness and has motivated me to get my own RKC certification in April! He is awesome!
Bob Dudley - Medina, OH USA
An amazing human being
Rated 10 out of 10
My husband has known Doug for about 17 years ... met him back when he was a young body builder at a gym in Medina. Through the years, Doug has made an impact on our entire family. He trained all of us at one time or another, taking both of my sons under his wing, and even giving my youngest his nickname ("Squirrel") which is with him to this day.
I have one story to convey which shows Doug's devotion. With Doug's help, my oldest son was getting ready for his sophmore year in football. During his three-a-days that summer, he disloged a bone chip in his knee which required orthoscopic surgery. The FIRST person I called was Doug; the second was my husband. Dave had his surgery on Thursday and was in the gym with Doug that Monday. He can deadlift 600 pounds (if not more) now so I think the rehab went wonderfully.
Through all of Doug's support, my son, David, is now a licensed personal trainer at a local gym in Copley and would very much like to follow Doug down his Kettlebell road to success!!
Thanks, Doug, for everything you have done ... you know we ALL love you!! Dom, David, DJ, and Julie
Julie DeMasi - Copley, Ohio
Simply Put
Rated 10 out of 10
Three words to describe Doug Nepodal:
Passionate....
Omniscient....
Committed....
Thank you Doug
Heather - Medina Oh
SNATCH THIS!
Rated 10 out of 10
I met Doug and the Kettlebell for the first time this past December 2006, 3 1/2 months after the birth of my third son. I was in need of something different as I've been in the fitness industry for 15 years teaching everything from Step to Spinning to kickboxing. I rarely take the opportunity to participate in group classes because I'm often dissapointed in the lack of instructor quality and knowledge. Thanks to Doug, this is the first time in my life I have ever paid to train. It is usually the other way around. Doug captured my attention the first time I met him, he's a wealth of knowledge and believes in kettlebell. Doug not only practices what he teaches but patiently guides us through demonstration and explanation, always breaking it down and keeping it real whether it's your first or 43rd class. I feel great, am stronger than ever and rarely miss a session even if I have to pay a sitter for the kids! Because of Doug I'll see you in September for RKC....watch out his passion is contagious! Thank you Doug, BS2F(big shoes to fill)
Amy Dudley - Medina, Ohio USA
Comrade Garavik
Rated 10 out of 10
I was introduced on the kettlebell a little over a year ago by Doug. I started on a Saturday morning class with 4 other people in 2006 it has now grown into 4 classes on 3 different days testiment to Dougs teaching skills and knowledge of the kettlebell. Under his guidance i have more strength mobility and balance that i ever had! I will continue going to Dougs workout because he challenges us to be the best we can be. He was the best kept secret in OHIO but the word is getting out well deserved.
Kettlebell Mike - MEDINA, OHIO
Body & Soul Transformation
Rated 10 out of 10
I started working with kettlebells under Doug's guidance a year ago. This is the best thing that ever happened to my body! After just a few months I could see a drastic change in my strength, shape and balance. Doug has been instrumental in that development. He has the ability to help you adjust your form/exercise should you have an injury, and he has an excellent overall knowledge of fitness in general. Whether you are a beginner or a hard core athlete, kettlebells will change your life!
Darlene - Ohio
Great teacher
Rated 10 out of 10
Doug helped me with my form before I went to the June 2007 RKC certification. My form improved immensely in the few times we met. He was very personable and made it easy to ask questions. I can definitely see him becoming a Sr. RKC one day.
Nate Black, RKC - Cleveland,OH
Challenging Workouts
Rated 10 out of 10
We started taking Doug's Saturday morning kettlebell class in January 2007 and in a few short months can see a difference in our strength, flexibility and overall health. Doug is a patient and understanding teacher knowing our strengths as well as the time to challenge us. We appreciate his teaching technique and his way of making a totally different means of working out relatable to the average person. We look forward to getting into even better shape. Thank you Doug!
Melissa and Rick - Medina
54 years young and getting stronger every day
Rated 10 out of 10
I have studyed martial arts for eight years. I hold a Black Belt 2nd in a mixed martial art. Doug is one of the best instructers I have met. He always seems to know just how far to push. 9 months ago I could not do a windmill with no kettlebell or with the lightest bell available. Now I do them with the 24Kg with no problem. Doug not only knows how to complete all the kettlebell exercises he always instructs by example. He form is great. I will continue to take instruction from Doug because he is a great trainer and he is an exelcent educator. There are many who can do, but few instructors like Doug who can teach and lead.
Greg Stanislawski - Canton, Ohio
Bear Crawl
Rated 10 out of 10
I started working with Doug using kettle bells three months ago. My low back has always been an issue, often throwing it out and unable to do anything for a few days. Since using kettle bells this has not happened and I am getting stronger with each session. Doug always makes sure I have great form and my flexibility has increased a ton since starting.
Brian - Medina, OH
Awesome
Rated 10 out of 10
Doug trained with me months before I had a knee surgery. I was trying to simply have a better recovery then my last surgery which landed me 2 and 1/2 weeks in a wheel chair and another 2 weeks on crutches. Because of Doug's training and the kettle bell work outs I was walking 3 days after surgery with no crutches! Amazing! And to top it off I was back training with kettle bells within a week! I was also able to swing the 80lber! Doug is a great trainer who is dedicated to his clients and kettle bells!
Leila - Akron Ohio
Incredible
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been training with Doug using kettle bells for three months now, and I have more overall strength then I ever have. The workouts are great and his knowledge on kettle bells is incredible. He is always changing it up and I actually look forward to coming in and working hard.
Molly - Medina, OH
LA August 2008!
Rated 10 out of 10
Amazing Team Leader! I feel very fortunate to have had Doug teach and critique my Kettlebell performance at the LA RKC certification. He was focused, professional and gave extremely clear directions on technique and how to improve with a positive, motivating approach. Kettlebell training can be hard, very rewarding but hard so to have a trainer like Doug makes it so much easier and fun. Thank you Doug! I am proud to have been on Team Nepodal and now be part of the RKC family!
Dina - Fresno, Ca
Wow. What a leader.
Rated 10 out of 10
I had the privilege of assisting team Nepodal at the August RKC. Doug is an incredible coach. He is professional, knowledgeable, approachable, encouraging and fun to be around. He set the tone for a great weekend. Our team's success is a testament to Doug's abilities. I learned a whole lot about the instructor I strive to be from Doug.
Stephanie Laff - Los Angeles, CA
An Inspiring Teacher
Rated 10 out of 10
I was very fortunate to be part of Team Nepodal during the latest RKC here in LA. Doug was personable, friendly, honest, and helpful with everyone on the team. He helped coach me through the toughest work out session of my life. Very passionate about improving himself and his students. Doug knew I could do it and he made sure I did. He is also just an all-around good guy and a bit of an eccentric, which is a good thing. Not your typical, average trainer in any way.
Robert Jay - Long Beach, CA
For the Leader of Team Nepodal!
Rated 10 out of 10
I first met Doug a few months before the RKC in Los Angeles. I chose him because of his reviews and his rank as a Team Leader. I chose wisely because he helped me to prepare for the pain! While at the RKC in LA, Doug did deliver on his promise to show me that I can do more than I thought I could. His professionalism while communicating with his RKC assistants Rik Brown, Stephanie Laff, and us student RKCs was excellent. He is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about what he is doing and does so with a very friendly attitude and in a well-organized manner. Doug was always there to help with direct and concise solutions to our questions. I have kilotons of respect for the man, the Leader. Thanks again Doug for welcoming me into your family!
John Roberts - Santa Maria, CA USA
Doug Nepodal RULES!!!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
It was a true blessing to be under the teaching of Doug. His demeanor, intensity, knowledge and most importantly his belief in my ability was unmatched. His quick response to correct, advise and push our team paid big dividends by the end of the weekend. When I double pressed those two 24kg KB's... well, I will never forget that feeling. What I gained from Doug will have an ongoing effect on how I push and encourage my clients.
Dave Neal - Brentwood, CA(Nor Cal) USA
Learn from the best!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I was Doug's assistant at the LA RKC and I must say that if I was starting out all over again with kettlebells, I would want Doug to be my trainer, He is as hard-core as they come,and yet he is focused
on exact details.I learned from him not only more refined kettlebell
techniques,but the all important professional interaction with clients. I am grateful to call him a friend and a mentor.
Rik Brown - Dana Point CA
Appreciation for Doug Nepodal
Rated 10 out of 10
Comrades,
My wife and I have been training with Doug for the last 7 months. He comes over every other weekend at about 7:30am and "gives us a butt whooping". Our fitness levels have gone through the roof since we discovered Kettlebells and started training with Doug. He is a really kind, generous person that is very free with his advice and time. Frequently he has go above and beyond what I would expect of a "personal trainer" and done something more along the lines of being a really great friend. This morning was a great example of such an event.
A bit of back story: when I was a much younger lad I did something bad to my back that involved about 14 beers, running, and a flight of stairs. General fitness helped ease the pain and training with Doug on the RKC Hard Style eliminated it... or so I thought. This last Wednesday I was doing some double swings when something pinched in my back and the pain lit up again. Just as intense as it had been those many years ago when I had first fallen. I was terrified that I would have to take a lot of time off or be forced to visit the doctor, take X-rays, and perhaps be forced to endure an operation that was supposed to be prevented by "being in shape".
When Doug showed up this morning I told him of my back ache and the intense pain it was causing me (felt like someone was twisting a dagger into my back). After some conversation and watching me swing he was able to figure out that it wasn't pain coming from my back- but an pulled muscle in my right glute (caused by over working the double swings) that was pinching the Sciatic Nerve and creating pain sensations that felt similar to the pain I had many years ago. Doug quickly found the spot, rubbed it out (yes he rubbed my butt), and immediately the pain went away. I was literally pain free in less than 10 minutes of Doug walking through my front door. He showed my wife the spot to rub and I was able to finish out the butt whooping with a huge smile on my face.
Doug is a great guy with a ton of experience with Kettlebells and general fitness. If you are in the Ventura County area of Southern California and you haven't gotten set up a session with Doug- you owe it to your health to do it.
Michael-Scott - Moorpark, CA
Outstanding Instructor
Rated 10 out of 10
I had the honor of being on Team Nepodal at the Sept 08 RKC. Doug did an outstanding job with all of us in our group. I felt my kettlebell techniques were pretty good heading into the RKC. Doug helped make some minor adjustments and it made a bigger difference than I could have ever thought possible. After the great experience I had, I want to do more with the RKC. I am signed up for the level 2 workshop and can't wait for it. Doug made something that was going to be "just a certification" into a life changing experience. I hope one day to inspire people with kettlebells as much as Doug inspired me.
He was promoted to Senior RKC at the end of the workshop and he deserved it. I am glad I got to be there and witness it.
Dustin Miller RKC - Chicago, IL
Happy to be part of Team Nepodal!
Rated 10 out of 10
I was fortunate enough to be part of Doug's team as an assistant instructor at the Sept. 2008 RKC. The RKC experience can be a little overwhelming for a participant, but Doug has a clear and concise way of teaching and a relaxed nature that helped everyone in the group to stay focused, and even happy!! He reminded me why I enjoy being a trainer so much. I hope to be able to work with Doug again in the future. It was evident to me that he deserved his recent promotion to senior instructor.
Kerry Swick, RKC - Pittsburgh, PA
A true professional
Rated 10 out of 10
I have seen Doug progress from his first RKC cert in 2005 all the way to Sr. RKC, every bit of which has been well deserved. He has outstanding knowledge and skill and I give him my highest recommendation as a professional.
David Whitley, Sr. RKC - Nashville TN USA
TEAM NEPODAL 2008
Rated 10 out of 10
In September of 2008, I had the fortune of having Doug as my Team Leader for the RKC in Minneapolis. What separates Doug from trainers that I have worked with in the past, is his willingness to lead by example and to purposely' get his hands dirty at any chance he gets, rather than sit on the bench and arm-chair quarterback. Furthermore, Doug displays a level of approachability and humility that is a rarity in new age trainers, let alone individuals in general. If you get the chance to work with Doug I strongly suggest you jump at the opportunity, I know that I am looking forward to the time when our paths meet once again. If you need any further evidence of what type of a Kettlebell instructor Doug truly is, pull up the pictures from the RKC in question and you will see Doug leading the infamous Grad Workout, like a leader should be, at the head of his troops.
J. Sushnyk RKC - Icy Cold, Canada
Great Coach - Respected and Appreciated
Rated 10 out of 10
I met Doug briefly at San Jose 2009 after hearing his name spoken with great respect all weekend. I now know why, he exemplifies what RKC is all about! He coached me by showing me what I could do, I just didn't know it. Like Jeff O'Connor said all weekend, "get out of your own way".
RKC training combines teaching concepts, practicing drills, and then an extensive workout or two to ensure you OWN the technique. The weekend introduced me to new techniques, power breathing, and increased weight ... just to name a few. Final day, victims taught, the much anticipated Grad workout is last on the list of things to survive. Mind racing, candidates everywhere, and only a 16kg is within reach, not the 12kg I knew I could press.
Adrenaline must have been responsible for the first 5 sets as I barely remember how the new weight arrived overhead. Doug patiently coached from a distance knowing what would soon happen. As fatigue set in, everything I had learned all weekend came together and finally clicked. To get the weight overhead, the entire body had to work in unison to accomplish the task at hand. Doug was close at hand to coach me through the sticking point. Only then did I OWN what I came to learn, it all made sense in that moment. Only then did the 12kg KB magically appear. I am eternally grateful for both!
A great coach teaches a principle and waits until YOU OWN it, they don't focus on showing you what THEY can do. If you get the chance to learn from Doug, do not waste the gift given to you. Doug is a remarkable trainer because he has mastered when to teach and when to stand back and watch ... when you finally get out of your own way and just do it. I appreciate your coaching skills and as well as your endless patience.
Karen Washburn, RKC - Blue Skies, Az
Great Workshop
Rated 10 out of 10
I recently met Doug at a workshop in Venice. I was not sure what to expect, but as soon as he started going into a couple of exercises, you could tell this guy was a pro. There's a reason he's a Senior RKC. He was thorough, yet direct and it was interesting the entire time. I came out of that workshop with a whole new respect for kettlebells and Doug. If I lived near Ventura I would take advantage of the wealth of knowledge and experience he has as much as possible.
Marcus Martinez - Orange County, CA
Doug's Hawaiian Vacation
Rated 10 out of 10
I met Doug at the 2009 San Jose certification and was excited when he emailed me to say he was coming to the Big Island. I was thrilled that he was willing to give up some of his vacation to come to our gym, spend time with me and my students. His knowledge and problem solving skills are amazing. I don't have anyone nearby to help me prepare for RKC II or to check my techniques so I was grateful for his visit and learned a lot from him. My students enjoyed having Doug guest teach our Tuesday class and learning from someone at his level. We are all looking forward to Doug's next visit to the Big Island. I would highly recommend Doug to anyone. His knowledge and communication skills are incredible.
Bill Case, RKC - Waimea, Big Island, Hawaii
With great appreciation
Rated 10 out of 10
I've had the great privilege of being under Doug's tutelage for the last fifteen months. Within that time, Doug has helped me to overtake physical and fitness-related goals that I had placed for myself, and quite frankly, to attain new levels of strength and conditioning that I would have thought nigh unattainable before. I prided myself on being a strong woman; at the end of the first class though, pull-over sit-ups with an 8kg 'bell were exceedingly difficult. Now, I can do a Turkish get up with a 32kg kettlebell, and I have Doug to thank for that completely. As a result of all of this, Doug has also assisted me so greatly in reaching new levels beyond simply the fitness-oriented. I have always so deeply appreciated so many attributes about Doug: his knowledge in his field; how grounded he is; his ready laugh and willingness to make the environment enjoyable and challenging; his genuine desire for each individual to succeed; and his incredible, unmatched support. Thank you so much Doug for all that you do -- you are an inspiration, and I am truly honored to have received such care. I look forward to joining the ranks of the RKC in August, that you have represented tremendously.
Laura - Carpinteria, CA USA
What Can I say more than He's the best!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I had the opportunity and the pleasure to be assigned Mr. Nepodal as my Team Leader for the RKC. And words are not enough to provide the thanks of all the things I learned from him from proper technique to proper attitude in being an RKC. It was hard to ask questions when he answered them in a simple manner. As taught to me, there is no need to be wordy and talk too much on how to properly lift a kettlebell even with all the intricacies that can be involved. His attention to detail and tips on the 'little things' have gone a lone way that as an example I had a PR on my one arm overhead press of 70 lbs. I was training with a 53 lb one too. I have taken away a lot from Mr. Nepodal and am hoping to train again with him and the team. Thanks sir!!!
Emmanuel Pedro - Cypress, CA
Best Team Leader!
Rated 10 out of 10
Doug was my team leader at the 2009 San Diego RKC. I was very fortunate to work with a very knowledgeable, compassionate, and super cool leader. He supported each and everyone in our team from the snatch test all the way to the grad workout. He made sure that our technique and teaching skills are up to standard and I feel confident that I will be a great instructor out in the real world because of that. I wouldn't want it any other way.
Thank you sir!
Anna Dornier - Pleasant Hill, CA
True RKC
Rated 10 out of 10
I had the pleasure of being one of Doug's assistant instructors at the 2009 San Diego RKC. This was only my second RKC weekend. Thanks to Doug I was quickly reminded of what a great honor and privilege it is to be a RKC. Doug is a leading example of all that is the RKC. Dedication, passion, commitment.....it's all there AND to top it all off Doug has a great personality and is fun to be around. Thanks for all you do Doug!
John Devitt, RKC - Santa Clarita, CA
The fitness world needs a whole lot more of this guy. (Can we clone him?)
Rated 10 out of 10
Who knew someone could be such a badass AND so easy-going, at the same time?? Doug's strength, knowledge, skill, and professionalism represent the BEST of the RKC. And you can't find a more likeable guy. I had the great privilege of assisting on his team at a 2009 RKC, so I really had the chance to observe and appreciate his teaching and leadership style. It is one to emulate. Doug is someone you immediately respect, admire, and don't want to disappoint, yet at no time do you feel intimidated - just inspired and comfortable. This is a balance I suspect few are able to achieve, and even fewer so effortlessly. Each member of our team felt lucky to have him as our Team Leader, and for good reason. Be one of the lucky ones! Don't wait for an opportunity to train with him, MAKE that opportunity.
Nikki Shlosser, RKC - Santa Monica, CA
Epic.
Rated 10 out of 10
I can't believe I haven't gotten around to reviewing Doug sooner! Geeze! Well I did nearly ALL of my kettlebell training leading up to the August 2009 certification as an attendee to Doug's classes. I trained with him since about 1.5 years out (started kettlebells with him in Spring of '08) and I was so inspired by his enthusiasm for the RKC that I had to go through the certification myself. And so, might I add, did many others from his class.
He always said how the RKC changed his life as well as his entire perspective on training and I couldn't agree more. The difference is that he was the one to give that to me. His teaching has always been perfect for every situation. He knows how to dish out the pain or point out to you what you need to work on with the right choice of words. I must say, being a personal trainer before meeting Doug, I was moved by the way he deals with his clients and now take the same laid back approach that he uses. He's a complete package and the real deal! Truly an epic and funny character :)
Timothy Spencer - Goleta, CA. USA
Extremely Positive Team Leader
Rated 10 out of 10
I first met Doug the night before the San Diego RKC certification. Friday morning Doug got us together as a team and let us know that he was there to make us RKCs and his goal was to make all of us pass. The whole time Doug kept working hard to create an environment for us all to be successful.
I went through the RKC with my Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor and every night we talked about how glad we were to have Doug as our Team Leader. Doug was not easy on us and he made sure we learned the proper technique. Doug makes people want to go that extra mile and that is what makes him such awesome trainer.
I am a military veteran and now a personal trainer so I have experienced many styles of leadership. What makes Doug a sought after trainer is his ability to push people without being a drill instructor or boring people with too many details in his instruction. Most people want to have fun and not critized when they hire a trainer but that can be hard with kettlebell training since it can be so challenging but Doug is the best at making people enjoy their suffering.
I am so lucky to have such a great mentor and I hope to be more like Doug when I train my clients.
