More Russian Kettlebell Challenges is Pavel's best instructional video yet. Fans of Pavel's earlier work will instantly recognize the brick wall background, giving the video a feeling of familiarity. However, this video is noticeably different than the prior videos, because the instruction has really reached a new level. It appears as though he has listened to every piece of constructive criticism that you could possibly make about the original video. For example, in this video, Pavel demonstrates from more angles and also performs more reps so that you can get an idea of what the groove is like. There are some great new drills on this video, including some I had never seen before. Not only this, but Pavel also goes into incredible detail on some of our old favorites, including the Snatch, Bent Press and the Front Squat. There are also a variety of drills employing two kettlebells, which is great for the advanced Girevik.

Pavel's instruction on this new video is very clear and precise. He talks his way through each exercise as he demonstrates how to properly perform it. At one point, he uses a voice over, which makes sense because it was helpful to hear his breathing pattern during that particular set. As I said before, he also demonstrates everything from a variety of angles, which is very helpful. This video is one that you will turn to again and again, it is absolutely invaluable to watch Pavel's demonstrations. As usual, Pavel is pretty funny. He cracked me up a few times and nearly knocked me out of my chair at one point, when he made a mistake during an exercise. I won't spoil the surprise, because it is just too funny!
You might wonder how they fit 25 drills into 40 minutes, but somehow they did it. There is simply no fluff here, everything is crisp and tight. It doesn't appear rushed or drawn out, the length of the tape is well suited to the content presented. Multiple viewings are a necessity with this tape, even more so now than in past tapes.

There are so many details presented in this video that you might even want your kettlebells right there with you and practice along with the tape. It will take time and a lot of practice to nail each one and integrate it into your technique. In the front squat alone, there were many seemingly minor details, but after adding each one, you will find a surprisingly large gain in the strength of your front squat.

The two kettlebell drills will be very appealing to the advanced Gireviks. It was very helpful to see Pavel's demonstration of the 2 KB Clean and Press. The anchored and alternating snatch are an excellent way to instantly add more power to your snatch. They are a great drill by themselves, but after doing a few reps of the anchored snatch, your regular snatch will float up effortlessly.
There is one drill, the Get-Up Situp, which requires a partner. It is incredibly challenging for your abs, but it requires a partner to anchor your feet. However, I have come up with a simple solution that demonstrates one of the million uses of Kettlebells- wearing them as boots! Yes, Kettleboots!! Simply place a pair of them out in front of you on their sides, with the handles towards your body. Slip your toes through the handle and pull back with the muscles on your shins and push your heels into the KB. Of course you will want to keep your knees locked and follow all of Pavel's other guidelines for performing this drill. I think this variation is actually more difficult than the way it was demonstrated on the video.

For the experienced Kettlebell lifter, this is a must-have video. It might be a good thing for beginners to watch, but it might also be a bit overwhelming. Adding one new drill a week might be a good strategy, but mastering the basics is the most important thing of all. This video is what everyone has been asking for, so it's great that it is finally here.