Steve Cotter was the founder and director of the International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation (IKFF). For more than 30 years, he promoted body–mind fitness around the world through martial arts, qigong, mobility, flexibility, and kettlebell training. He worked tirelessly to share the power of kettlebell training far and wide, and his efforts to teach his art form had a global impact on the growth and popularity of kettlebell training. His physical feats of power led him to be named one of Men’s Health magazine’s Top 100 Fittest Men of All-Time, but it was his ability to explain complex concepts that brought him global recognition as a fitness educator. He provided hands-on training to thousands of fitness professionals in over 60 nations. In addition to Kettlebell Training, Cotter also developed the landmark Encyclopedia of Kettlebell Training DVD series, providing foundational instruction for countless trainers to learn how to use kettlebells. More than anything, Cotter loved to teach and share his unique experiences to promote health, happiness, and longevity through fitness. Cotter consulted for numerous sport and military institutions, including the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers and San Diego Chargers; MLB’s Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics, and Los Angeles Dodgers; NHL’s Anaheim Ducks; the University of Texas; San Diego State University; U.S. Navy SEALs (Seal Team 6, Virginia Beach); and the Marine Corps Martial Arts Center of Excellence at Quantico. He also taught at prestigious fitness conferences around the world, including IDEA World, IDEA Personal Trainer Institute, International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), Arnold Sports Festival, National Strength and Conditioning Association, FIBO, FIBO China, Nike China Super Workshop, Nike Blast, Asia Fitness Conference, Indonesia Fitness Expo, FILEX, canfitpro, Athlean-X Games, East Coast Alliance, Certified Professional Trainers Network, Perform Better Summit, and Perform Better Europe. Steve Cotter passed away in 2025.
