Al Kavadlo, is without a doubt one of the leading experts in Calisthenics & Bodyweight Strength Training.
Al has been featured in The New York Times and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com and TRAIN magazine.
The author of four books, including Stretching Your Boundaries and Pushing The Limits!, Kavadlo is also known for his appearance in the popular Convict Conditioning book series.
I am a huge fan of Al, because he simplifies the art and science of calisthenics so that people from all walks of life can enjoy the fun in exercising using one’s own bodyweight.
I have personally learned so much from his videos, blog, and I am currently reading Raising The Bar, which is a book I recommend for anyone wanting to learn about Calisthenics.
When I emailed Al for this interview, he responded almost immediately.
Considering he is such huge demand from his media interviews, books and as lead instructor for the Progressive Calisthenics Certification (PCC), I was incredibly honored that he agreed to take time from his busy schedule to do this interview.
I wanted his take on questions outside of the normal sphere of diet and exercise that I am sure he asked on a daily and weekly basis.
I wanted to know what makes him tick. What he considers “success” and what were some of the more challenging decisions in his life.
Here is my interview with Al Kavadlo.
Hi Al, thanks for your time…
What’s the most important life lesson you have learned thus far?
To take accountability and not blame others when things go awry. Every individual is personally responsible for their own success or failure; you reap what you sow.
What’s the most important habit that you think has contributed to your success?
Consistency. I work hard every single day.
In one sentence or phrase how would you define success?
Success is being able to live the life you want without harming others or compromising your integrity.
Who are your mentors and why?
I’ve had many mentors over the years but most of them are people you’ve never heard of. My parents were both tremendous influences on me, for example. Why? Because I was around them all the time growing up!
What was the most difficult decision you had to make and why?
Putting aside my childhood dream of being a musician in order to pursue a career in the fitness industry was tough, but it wound up being a good move!
What was the best decision you made and why?
See previous question. 🙂
Could you tell us about some of the more important projects you have going on or coming up in the future?
I just released a new book, called Zen Mind, Strong Body. You can find out more about the book and/or get a copy here: http://www.dragondoor.com/eb81/?apid=4e8cb1ea167b0
I also teach a course called the Progressive Calisthenics Certification that is all about bodyweight strength training. More info is here: http://www.dragondoor.com/workshops/pccworkshop/?apid=4e8cb1ea167b0
Wow, thank you very much Al,
That was huge…..you are such an inspiration….thank you.
To learn more about Al Kavadlo go to his website www.alkavadlo.com
Check out this epic video of Al performing some pretty freaking incredible feats:
(Time: 1.55 minutes)
