Mike Stefano has been instrumental in the development of World Kettlebell Club and its subsidiaries and offshoots such as the American Kettlebell Club, as well as the creation of AKC Fitness™. He also has help create my First Responder Protocol, marking a monumental change in the preparedness of Firefighters and other Emergency Responders around the world. I have no hesitation recommending Coach Stefano and AKC Fitness Long Island, the first Affiliate of WKC - World's foremost authority on kettlebell lifting, Valery Fedorenko
AKC FITNESS LI MEMBER PROFILE: Julie Santiago
Julie drops 28 pounds with WKC Fitness Program [FULL STORY]
I have lost 32 (updated 8/26/10) pounds and counting. Kettlebells with Mike has shown me what I'm capable of. I am not that athletic... I use to hate to go to the gym. Now its a part of my weekly schedule that I squeeze it in between play dates for my daughter, my husband working late, and just plan old life. Mike calls me the motivator but the truth is Mike has motivated me. He challenges me, and his manner of training is beyond reproach. I've had the pleasure of working with AKC Fitness LI's other trainers, and Kim, Chris and Joe are all awesome. - Julie S
MORE MEMBER TESTIMONIALS
I am a mother of 2, and in my mid-thirties. I am also a lawyer with a hectic schedule and no time to waste in a gym. I want results, and a trainer who respects my time. I found this with Mike Stefano's kettlebell gym. Mike and his wife, Kim, have created a nice, healthy and challenging environment for those willing to take fitness to the next level. Prior to coming to AKC Fitness LI, I was doing the traditional workout with weights and cardio, not seeing real results. I often felt muscle strains and fatigue from countless reps. Now that I am doing kettlebells, I have lost weight, toned parts of my body never previously toned and have remained injury-free. For a fraction of the price of personal training sessions, I am finally getting the body I wanted and feeling healthy and happy along the way. - Erin S. [FULL STORY]
Those of us who have had the opportunity to train with Mike and his staff have witnessed how seriously and professionally he has taken his role as AKC Master Coach, teaching pure technique of the WKC. AKC fitness Long Island is a purpose built facility and environment that has enhanced my performance as well as the performance and technique of everyone who's trained there. I look forward to each and every trip AKC Fitness LI. -Kevin Wang
I have been working with Coach Mike Stefano for four months, as of this writing, at AKC Fitness Long Island. Using the Fedorenko kettlebell method, I've been exposed to a training regimen that combines the best of weight training and cardio-vascular training simultaneously. Working against the weight, against the clock, and for repetitions, I am sure to see a new personal best each session. While the method can be credited with producing improvements in strength and capacity without injury; it is Coach Mike and his staff to whom I owe my metric success. Specifically, I have rarely met people who maintain such high integrity, professionalism and individual consideration as the AKC staff in their work. Not only do they provide a structured individual workout each time I walk through the door, but they insure that all members are introduced around, made to feel welcome, and encouraged to become part of the AKC kettlebell family. I recommend Coach Mike and AKC Fitness LI for everyone with a fitness goal; and, especially, for those, like myself, whose fitness goal is to travel the back nine in even better shape than the front nine. -Sherry Finkel Murphy
Four years ago, I blindly pursued a personal trainer on the internet and was fortunate enough to find Mike Stefano. He put a kettlebell in my hand and in no time, elevated my level of fitness, conditioning and athleticism to a new level (and still climbing!). Mike's approach to every client is personal, one-on-one instruction, custom tailoring your fitness program to address your personal goals, keeping you engaged, educated and always hungry to challenge yourself. Immediately upon walking thru the door of AKC LI Fitness, you're greeted with a virtual "warm hug" (and often times "literally"!). It's an awesome "family feel" and you're never left alone. You're given the attention, no other gym offers. AKC LI Fitness, has become "a staple" in my life and I HIGHLY recommend anyone serious about elevating their fitness program, to check out 3597 Merrick Road in Seaford! You won't be disappointed. -Vanessa Turner
As a student of Coach Stefano's I can say he is a master motivator in his own mild mannered style. He and his entire staff have the ability to teach, correct, inspire and push you towards your goals. The rest is up to you to DO THE WORK! -Ed Perucca
Mike Stefano's enthusiasm and passion for kettlebell training is infectious. I've always enjoyed exercise, but working with Mike and the rest of the professional staff (Coach Kim, Joe and Chris), has taken it to a completely different level. AKC Fitness has created a congenial, safe, supportive and fun environment for learning the sport and attaining the ultimate level of fitness for each person. Every workout is tailored to you exact requirements and abilities at that moment in time. Kettlebell lifting is an extremely efficient, effective means of getting in shape and AKC Fitness is the ideal place to learn how to do it. - Theresa O'Connell
I do fitness walks to catch up with my girlfriends, I bike because my husband enjoys it, I run to keep my daughter company, and I play racquetball to satisfy my competitive edge, but to workout I go to AKC Fitness, and Mike Stefano has made me stronger, fitter and leaner than I ever thought possible. - Joyce LaBosco
Mike's knowledge and passion for kettlebells and overall fitness is what makes him such a great coach. He is incredibly supportive with students of all levels. When exposing people to kettlebells for the first time, Mike is instrumental in properly guiding and challenging them at the right pace, while not overwhelming them with information. Exercising with kettlebells is a great way to increase overall strength, cardiovascular health, and flexibility all at the same time. There is no better place to learn how to properly exercise with kettlebells than at AKC Fitness Long Island with Mike Stefano. - Philip Angeline
Having been a professional fitness trainer and rehab specialist for more than a decade,I became involved with kettlebells as a new way to create challenging workouts for clients, while enhancing their day-to-day,"functional" fitness and wellness. When i heard that a"Russian" KB club was opening right in my area, I jumped at the chance to experience the unique world of "sport lifting". I had worked with Michael Stefano once before, and based on how much I gleaned from his 1 day class years earlier, was ready to be challenge. Little did i know that Mike was bringing the methods of the great Valerie Federenko to Long Island!! I make the drive out to Seaford 3-4 times a week to be part of a wonderful fitness "family". They have helped push me to accomplishments I could not have dreamed of a few months ago. If you have not been there,you really cannot appreciate the (great) feeling, and if you haven't been there... WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? - Jason Koronakos
For anyone interested in kettlebell fitness training, Mike Stefano is the real thing. He is a master coach who has learned his craft from the legendary Valery Fedorenko . His gym is unlike anything you have ever seen. If you are remotely curious about kettlebell training, get in touch with Mike for an intro lesson. Swinging and lifting a kettlebell is not something you should do without learning proper technique. - John Murphy
In the movie , "A Bronx Tale", a gangster tells the kid that you only meet 3 great women in your life. I feel the same way about gyms. My first great one was the Flatbush YMCA, an eclectic mix of ghetto kids, WW2 vets and bar brawlers (myself included). The second great place was on LI, XXL/Evolution, where I trained and worked as a heavy bag instructor. What made each place great were the people, a mix of young and old, but all nice. My third great gym, and possibly the best of the three, is AKC Fitness. I had free access to two other gyms as a trainer. Two minutes after meeting Mike and Kim, I decided I would rather pay to work out at AKC. Mike and Kim are a breath of fresh air. As a soon-to-be retired law enforcement officer, I'm a pretty decent judge of character. If ethical, nice gym owners aren't enough to make you want to join AKC, the clientele they attract are the most considerate people you could share a membership with. If Cheers were a gym instead of a bar, It would be AKC. - John Presta.
I feel very fortunate to have met Mike and Kim Stefano. They got me in the best shape of my life and treated me like family. What more could you ask for? - Chris R.
If you're on Long Island and enjoy training with kettlebells, pay a visit to Mike Stefano's gym in Seaford. He and Kim are very knowledgeable about kettlebell sport and offer personalized instruction based on the Valery Federenko method of lifting. -Lorna Kleidman MS
I only wish that I lived closer to AKC Fitness, Long Island!!! I'd be there all the time. It's a wonderful gym with a wonderful staff. Kettlebell training has found a great home here! -Lorraine Patten
As a New York City Firefighter, I know how important it is to stay in top shape. Kettlebell training, using the Fedorenko Method spells functional fitness. Whether you're preparing for a physical exam or simply to get fitter, kettlebell training far surpasses the same old weight lifting or cardio. I've found the benefits of a regular kettlebell lifting routine to be equally essential to maintaining both strength and cardio efficiency. While a workout can resemble the exact stresses firefighting, kettlebell lifting comes as close as you can get. Kettlebells for as little as 20 minutes per day will burn body fat while at the same time add muscle definition. And as a bonus, you don't need to dedicate separate time to weight lifting and cardio. I highly recommend trying AKC Fitness LI, and seeing for yourself. - Matt O. - FDNY
Coach Mike and his wife Kim (also an AKC Coach) are some of the nicest people you will find, and a true branch of the Fedorenko Tree. Having had the opportunity to train with him I can tell you ...If you are even considering kettlebell training, and are within Mike's area, you could not possibly find a better Coach or Facility to not only learn - but master the art of kettlebell sport lifting. -Nick Schodtler
Michael has provided knowledge above and beyond the norm for Kettlebell lifters and continues to promote the sport in innovative ways. Mike's book helped me get into great shape. I have read it cover to cover several times. He is an inspiration to many who wish to change their lives. - D. Dufford
After undergoing major surgery several years ago, I gained weight which stubbornly refused to go away. To my delight, I'm now starting to wear some of my favorite pre-surgery outfits. With each workout, I find myself achieving new personal bests and surpassing even my own expectations. I've also noticed a major improvement in my cardiovascular fitness and energy level, as well as a relief of some lower back pain that comes with working a desk job. While vanity may have lead me to try kettlebells, I know that the many other benefits I've found will keep me swinging, jerking and snatching long after I reach my goal weight. - Megan M
Our fire company saw Mike Stefano's First Responder Program as an excellent first step in establishing an ongoing firefighter fitness program. He's an excellent teacher who was able to relate the specific elements of the program he taught us to our work as volunteer firefighters. Everyone in our class, which ranged in age from 21 to 55 and covered a wide range of fitness levels, fully participated and was able to perform the program. As impressive as what we learned was the sense of teamwork and accomplishment as we worked our way through the First Responder workout, cheering with and for each other at our accomplishment. It's a great class that I would highly recommend to any volunteer, combination or career fire department or first responder organization. - Tom Healy, Plainsboro FD
I have had the opportunity of being trained at AKC Fitness and found that not only was the training professional the whole concept of kettlebell training under the AKC method to be very effective not only physically but mentally as well. I look forward to resuming my training in the very near future. - Phil G.
Mike is quick to assist and educate at every turn. His e-Mail Newsletter and Facebook are always enlightening. I look forward to reading them weekly. ...and I love the location of the gym. I tell all my friends about AKC Fitness LI! Thanks Mike - Melissa McPeack
Mike Stefano's workout book helped me get into great shape. I have read it cover to cover several times. He is an inspiration to many men and women who wish to change their lives. Thanks Mike! - Brendan G.
I knew right away that Kettlebell's would be the key to my workouts. No longer circuit based or repetitive, Kettlebell's teach you how to push yourself in a safe and healthy way. Within three workouts I instantly felt stronger and had started to see a difference in that much needed muscle endurance. Best of all, I actually looked forward to working out, to see how hard I could push myself. Capt. Mike offers a very educational fitness environment and an overall good time throughout your workout. Without Captain Mike, I don't know where I would be, and definitely wouldn't have passed my CPAT with a time of 7:38.- Brian R
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I am a mother of 2, and in my mid-thirties. I am also a lawyer with a hectic schedule and no time to waste in a gym. I want results, and a trainer who respects my time. I found this with Mike Stefano's kettlebell gym. Mike and his wife, Kim, have created a nice, healthy and challenging environment for those willing to take fitness to the next level. Prior to coming to AKC Fitness LI, I was doing the traditional workout with weights and cardio, not seeing real results. I often felt muscle strains and fatigue from countless reps. Now that I am doing kettlebells, I have lost weight, toned parts of my body never previously toned and have remained injury-free. For a fraction of the price of personal training sessions, I am finally getting the body I wanted and feeling healthy and happy along the way. - Erin S. [FULL STORY]
Those of us who have had the opportunity to train with Mike and his staff have witnessed how seriously and professionally he has taken his role as AKC Master Coach, teaching pure technique of the WKC. AKC fitness Long Island is a purpose built facility and environment that has enhanced my performance as well as the performance and technique of everyone who's trained there. I look forward to each and every trip AKC Fitness LI. -Kevin Wang
I have been working with Coach Mike Stefano for four months, as of this writing, at AKC Fitness Long Island. Using the Fedorenko kettlebell method, I've been exposed to a training regimen that combines the best of weight training and cardio-vascular training simultaneously. Working against the weight, against the clock, and for repetitions, I am sure to see a new personal best each session. While the method can be credited with producing improvements in strength and capacity without injury; it is Coach Mike and his staff to whom I owe my metric success. Specifically, I have rarely met people who maintain such high integrity, professionalism and individual consideration as the AKC staff in their work. Not only do they provide a structured individual workout each time I walk through the door, but they insure that all members are introduced around, made to feel welcome, and encouraged to become part of the AKC kettlebell family. I recommend Coach Mike and AKC Fitness LI for everyone with a fitness goal; and, especially, for those, like myself, whose fitness goal is to travel the back nine in even better shape than the front nine. -Sherry Finkel Murphy
Four years ago, I blindly pursued a personal trainer on the internet and was fortunate enough to find Mike Stefano. He put a kettlebell in my hand and in no time, elevated my level of fitness, conditioning and athleticism to a new level (and still climbing!). Mike's approach to every client is personal, one-on-one instruction, custom tailoring your fitness program to address your personal goals, keeping you engaged, educated and always hungry to challenge yourself. Immediately upon walking thru the door of AKC LI Fitness, you're greeted with a virtual "warm hug" (and often times "literally"!). It's an awesome "family feel" and you're never left alone. You're given the attention, no other gym offers. AKC LI Fitness, has become "a staple" in my life and I HIGHLY recommend anyone serious about elevating their fitness program, to check out 3597 Merrick Road in Seaford! You won't be disappointed. -Vanessa Turner
As a student of Coach Stefano's I can say he is a master motivator in his own mild mannered style. He and his entire staff have the ability to teach, correct, inspire and push you towards your goals. The rest is up to you to DO THE WORK! -Ed Perucca
Mike Stefano's enthusiasm and passion for kettlebell training is infectious. I've always enjoyed exercise, but working with Mike and the rest of the professional staff (Coach Kim, Joe and Chris), has taken it to a completely different level. AKC Fitness has created a congenial, safe, supportive and fun environment for learning the sport and attaining the ultimate level of fitness for each person. Every workout is tailored to you exact requirements and abilities at that moment in time. Kettlebell lifting is an extremely efficient, effective means of getting in shape and AKC Fitness is the ideal place to learn how to do it. - Theresa O'Connell
I do fitness walks to catch up with my girlfriends, I bike because my husband enjoys it, I run to keep my daughter company, and I play racquetball to satisfy my competitive edge, but to workout I go to AKC Fitness, and Mike Stefano has made me stronger, fitter and leaner than I ever thought possible. - Joyce LaBosco
Mike's knowledge and passion for kettlebells and overall fitness is what makes him such a great coach. He is incredibly supportive with students of all levels. When exposing people to kettlebells for the first time, Mike is instrumental in properly guiding and challenging them at the right pace, while not overwhelming them with information. Exercising with kettlebells is a great way to increase overall strength, cardiovascular health, and flexibility all at the same time. There is no better place to learn how to properly exercise with kettlebells than at AKC Fitness Long Island with Mike Stefano. - Philip Angeline
Having been a professional fitness trainer and rehab specialist for more than a decade,I became involved with kettlebells as a new way to create challenging workouts for clients, while enhancing their day-to-day,"functional" fitness and wellness. When i heard that a"Russian" KB club was opening right in my area, I jumped at the chance to experience the unique world of "sport lifting". I had worked with Michael Stefano once before, and based on how much I gleaned from his 1 day class years earlier, was ready to be challenge. Little did i know that Mike was bringing the methods of the great Valerie Federenko to Long Island!! I make the drive out to Seaford 3-4 times a week to be part of a wonderful fitness "family". They have helped push me to accomplishments I could not have dreamed of a few months ago. If you have not been there,you really cannot appreciate the (great) feeling, and if you haven't been there... WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? - Jason Koronakos
For anyone interested in kettlebell fitness training, Mike Stefano is the real thing. He is a master coach who has learned his craft from the legendary Valery Fedorenko . His gym is unlike anything you have ever seen. If you are remotely curious about kettlebell training, get in touch with Mike for an intro lesson. Swinging and lifting a kettlebell is not something you should do without learning proper technique. - John Murphy
In the movie , "A Bronx Tale", a gangster tells the kid that you only meet 3 great women in your life. I feel the same way about gyms. My first great one was the Flatbush YMCA, an eclectic mix of ghetto kids, WW2 vets and bar brawlers (myself included). The second great place was on LI, XXL/Evolution, where I trained and worked as a heavy bag instructor. What made each place great were the people, a mix of young and old, but all nice. My third great gym, and possibly the best of the three, is AKC Fitness. I had free access to two other gyms as a trainer. Two minutes after meeting Mike and Kim, I decided I would rather pay to work out at AKC. Mike and Kim are a breath of fresh air. As a soon-to-be retired law enforcement officer, I'm a pretty decent judge of character. If ethical, nice gym owners aren't enough to make you want to join AKC, the clientele they attract are the most considerate people you could share a membership with. If Cheers were a gym instead of a bar, It would be AKC. - John Presta.
I feel very fortunate to have met Mike and Kim Stefano. They got me in the best shape of my life and treated me like family. What more could you ask for? - Chris R.
If you're on Long Island and enjoy training with kettlebells, pay a visit to Mike Stefano's gym in Seaford. He and Kim are very knowledgeable about kettlebell sport and offer personalized instruction based on the Valery Federenko method of lifting. -Lorna Kleidman MS
I only wish that I lived closer to AKC Fitness, Long Island!!! I'd be there all the time. It's a wonderful gym with a wonderful staff. Kettlebell training has found a great home here! -Lorraine Patten
As a New York City Firefighter, I know how important it is to stay in top shape. Kettlebell training, using the Fedorenko Method spells functional fitness. Whether you're preparing for a physical exam or simply to get fitter, kettlebell training far surpasses the same old weight lifting or cardio. I've found the benefits of a regular kettlebell lifting routine to be equally essential to maintaining both strength and cardio efficiency. While a workout can resemble the exact stresses firefighting, kettlebell lifting comes as close as you can get. Kettlebells for as little as 20 minutes per day will burn body fat while at the same time add muscle definition. And as a bonus, you don't need to dedicate separate time to weight lifting and cardio. I highly recommend trying AKC Fitness LI, and seeing for yourself. - Matt O. - FDNY
Coach Mike and his wife Kim (also an AKC Coach) are some of the nicest people you will find, and a true branch of the Fedorenko Tree. Having had the opportunity to train with him I can tell you ...If you are even considering kettlebell training, and are within Mike's area, you could not possibly find a better Coach or Facility to not only learn - but master the art of kettlebell sport lifting. -Nick Schodtler
Michael has provided knowledge above and beyond the norm for Kettlebell lifters and continues to promote the sport in innovative ways. Mike's book helped me get into great shape. I have read it cover to cover several times. He is an inspiration to many who wish to change their lives. - D. Dufford
After undergoing major surgery several years ago, I gained weight which stubbornly refused to go away. To my delight, I'm now starting to wear some of my favorite pre-surgery outfits. With each workout, I find myself achieving new personal bests and surpassing even my own expectations. I've also noticed a major improvement in my cardiovascular fitness and energy level, as well as a relief of some lower back pain that comes with working a desk job. While vanity may have lead me to try kettlebells, I know that the many other benefits I've found will keep me swinging, jerking and snatching long after I reach my goal weight. - Megan M
Our fire company saw Mike Stefano's First Responder Program as an excellent first step in establishing an ongoing firefighter fitness program. He's an excellent teacher who was able to relate the specific elements of the program he taught us to our work as volunteer firefighters. Everyone in our class, which ranged in age from 21 to 55 and covered a wide range of fitness levels, fully participated and was able to perform the program. As impressive as what we learned was the sense of teamwork and accomplishment as we worked our way through the First Responder workout, cheering with and for each other at our accomplishment. It's a great class that I would highly recommend to any volunteer, combination or career fire department or first responder organization. - Tom Healy, Plainsboro FD
Mike is quick to assist and educate at every turn. His e-Mail Newsletter and Facebook are always enlightening. I look forward to reading them weekly. ...and I love the location of the gym. I tell all my friends about AKC Fitness LI! Thanks Mike - Melissa McPeack
Mike Stefano's workout book helped me get into great shape. I have read it cover to cover several times. He is an inspiration to many men and women who wish to change their lives. Thanks Mike! - Brendan G.
I knew right away that Kettlebell's would be the key to my workouts. No longer circuit based or repetitive, Kettlebell's teach you how to push yourself in a safe and healthy way. Within three workouts I instantly felt stronger and had started to see a difference in that much needed muscle endurance. Best of all, I actually looked forward to working out, to see how hard I could push myself. Capt. Mike offers a very educational fitness environment and an overall good time throughout your workout. Without Captain Mike, I don't know where I would be, and definitely wouldn't have passed my CPAT with a time of 7:38.- Brian R
