How 'Compassionate Ass-Kicker' Rachel Eslick Swings Cross-Training and Coaching
Photo: Cole Rojewski
As a personal trainer specializing in kettlebells, medicine balls, and bodyweight training, Rachel Eslick has gained a reputation for whipping clients into shape with her ever-changing workouts. Now, clients at Swing—the kettlebell school in Russian Hill—are experiencing Eslick's "compassionate ass-kicker" training style for themselves.
Eslick discovered Swing as a student, and joined co-founders Luke Wilson and Rich Manaro as a instructor in April. ("I totally fell in love and decided to get certified in kettlebell training," Eslick explains.) Thanks to the small class format at Swing, she's been able to dive into the community, and help the regulars transform into lean, mean, kettlebell machines.
Between private clients and group classes, this busy trainer has discovered the best way to cross-train is to keep her workouts close to home. What does Eslick to stay fit on her own time? Read on to find out.
Photo: Cole Rojewski
Rockyt: How do you prepare for the classes you teach?
Rachel: I dream about training and teaching (literally), so I'm always excited for my next class and finding the best method to communicate proper movement patterns. I work out with the owners of the studio and take the vast knowledge I learn from them straight into my classes.
Rockyt: How do you cross-train?
Rachel: I love so many things! If I'm not taking a class at Swing, training with kettlebells outdoors on my patio or at Alta Plaza park, you can find me messing with medicine balls, working mobility with basic gymnastics skills, doing yoga, or taking the occasional Spin class. It just depends on the weather, my mood, and what my body is craving.
Rockyt: What are your favorite studios for cross-training?
Rachel: I live 45 seconds from a Core40, so it's my go-to for quick Spin classes. My park of choice for doing outdoor workouts is Alta Plaza because, in addition to the scenic views, there's a plethora of stairs to climb. I'm also a fan of Bikram Yoga Nob Hill and Karma Yoga SF in Marina/Cow Hollow.
Rockyt: Are you training toward a particular fitness goal right now?
Rachel: I like to set skill-based goals, so for the last couple months, I've been working on pressing into a handstand and holding it for 10 seconds.
Photo: Cole Rojewski
Rockyt: What's your training regimen?
Rachel: Before or after regular workouts, I set aside 10-15 minutes a few times a week for drills and practice.
Rockyt: Do you take rest days?
Rachel: Yes! I think everyone should take a couple rest days each week. I focus on doing a lot of stretching work and making sure I get outside for a nice leisurely walk.
Eslick teaches almost daily at Swing, (the studio is closed on Sundays), so find a time to hop into one of her classes here. You can also train with her online through her business, Real Food and Fitness. Or, if you want to try one of Eslick's kettlebell workouts at your own favorite park, check out her workout of the day on Instagram or Facebook.