Figuring Things Out

In this conversation, Garrett shares his journey from athletics to becoming a prominent figure in movement culture. He discusses the evolution of his training philosophy, emphasising the importance of mobility, strength, and flexibility. He contrasts different mobility systems, such as FRC and Loaded Progressive Stretching, and highlights the interplay between strength training and mobility. He also delves into the emotional aspects of training, the significance of seasonal training, and the role of coaching in achieving mobility goals. Practical tips for improving mobility are provided, making this a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enhance their physical capabilities! Support the PodcastOnline CoachingWebsite Chapters00:00 Transition to Olympic Lifting and Mobility Challenges01:25 Exploring Mobility and Its Importance04:19 The Role of Aesthetics in Movement07:29 Coaching and Learning from Experience10:22 Diving into Movement Culture and FRC13:23 Comparing FRC and Loaded Progressive Stretching20:05 Exploring Internal vs External Loading in Flexibility Training23:30 The Interplay of Mobility and Strength Training28:26 Understanding Adaptation in Flexibility vs Strength34:14 The Emotional Journey of Letting Go of Strength38:59 Seasons of Training: Intentional Focus in Practice40:43 Defining Strength: Capacity vs Skill43:35 The Role of Coaching in Skill Development52:30 The Evolution of Mobility Culture53:56 Understanding Mobility Goals57:16 The Importance of Knowing When to Stop59:19 Balancing Performance and Personal Goals01:02:25 Training Frequency and Recovery01:05:21 Navigating Pain and Stretch Tolerance01:08:40 Setting Goals and Managing Competing Interests01:16:03 Practical Tips for Hip and Shoulder Mobility

In this conversation, Wil Brown and Karin Avi explore the journey of physical practice, focusing on Karin's transition from capoeira to the broader movement culture. They discuss the importance of play, personal growth, and the role of coaching in fostering progress. Karin shares insights on her experience training with Ido Portal, injury recovery, the significance of self-inquiry in movement and the necessity of questioning one's practice. The conversation emphasizes the value of passion in sustaining a long-term practice and the importance of community in physical endeavors.SUPPORT THE PODCAST. ONLINE COACHING. FTO WEBSITE. Chapters00:00 The Magic of Capoeira and Personal Interaction00:38 Transitioning from Capoeira to Movement Culture03:30 The Limitations of Capoeira and Seeking Professionalism11:18 Transitioning from Capoeira to Movement Culture14:18 The Importance of Play in Physical Practice18:05 Self-Competition vs. Collaboration in Movement22:03 Chasing Passion in Movement Practice26:11 Knowing When to Push Through or Let Go30:48 Defining Movement Culture35:18 Gradual Exposure to New Skills39:11 The Emotional Power of Physical Practice46:18 The Risks of Competitive Nature49:05 Injury Awareness and Recovery51:40 The Importance of Consistent Practice54:27 Social Engagement in Physical Practice57:35 Personalising Movement Routines01:01:01 The Value of In-Person Coaching01:03:03 Evolving Perspectives in Movement01:06:20 Structuring Short Practice Sessions01:08:34 Reflective Practices in Movement01:13:30 Finding Inspiration in Personal Practice

In this episode of the Figuring Things Out podcast we welcome Bren Veziroglou, exploring his influences, the transition from gaming to physicality, and the disconnect he experienced while studying biochemistry. The conversation delves into Ido Portal's movement philosophy, the importance of ecological dynamics in learning, and how quality of life and enjoyment play crucial roles in sustaining physical practice. Bren emphasises the nonlinear nature of movement and the need for intrinsic motivation in achieving long-term goals. We explore the principles of ecological dynamics in movement training, particularly in the context of Jiu-Jitsu. The conversation also touches on practical applications of these principles beyond martial arts, the balance between freedom and structure in practice, and the challenges of measuring progress in a dynamic learning environment. Bren shares insights on how to apply these concepts to personal practice, encouraging listeners to turn their learning into engaging tasks that promote exploration and growth.SUPPORT THE PODCAST. ONLINE COACHING. FTO WEBSITE.Chapters00:00 The Intro03:13 Bren's Journey into Movement and Teaching09:04 Early Sports Experiences and Gaming Influence15:02 The Impact of Physical Training on Self-Perception23:42 Innovations in Biochemistry: The Power of Celestrol30:12 The Complexity of Protein Interactions45:20 Movement Intelligence: Learning from Ido Portal51:40 Self-Organization in Movement Dynamics56:41 Understanding Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos Theory01:09:08 Motivation and Quality of Life in Exercise01:22:05 Ecological Dynamics in Learning and Movement01:30:15 Exploring Movement Intelligence in Parkour01:37:56 Navigating Freedom and Constraints in Skill Development01:43:31 The Role of Feedback in Learning01:50:03 Metrics and Measurement in Ecological Dynamics02:01:55 Applying Ecological Dynamics to Strength Training02:09:35 The Balance of Specificity and Chaos in Training02:13:43 External vs Internal Focus in Skill Acquisition02:23:32 Practical Applications for Solo Practitioners

In this engaging conversation, Isabel Kelly and I explore the journey of physicality, strength training, and emotional well-being. Isa shares her evolution from elite volleyball training to becoming a bodyworker, discussing the societal norms surrounding women's strength and the importance of personalizing fitness routines. We delve into the complexities of muscle mass versus bodyweight strength, the significance of nervous system recovery, and the emotional impacts of physical training. The dialogue emphasizes the playful side of movement and the importance of overcoming limiting beliefs in fitness, ultimately highlighting how love and self-worth are intertwined with physical appearance. We also explore the intricate dynamics of motivation in relationships, the significance of bodywork and movement, and the importance of communication in therapeutic practices. Motivation can stem from both internal desires and external influences, particularly in the context of romantic relationships. Isabel shares her insights on bodywork, emphasizing its role in addressing not just physical pain but also the neurological aspects of discomfort. The discussion highlights the value of partner engagement in bodywork, the necessity of effective communication, and the journey of finding one's passion in movement and wellness practices. 00:00 Natural Conversations: The Art of Podcasting03:12 Strength Training and Gender Dynamics06:20 The Complexity of Muscle Mass and Bodyweight Strength09:22 The Emotional Connection to Physical Training 12:23 Athletic Background: From Volleyball to Strength Training15:17 Understanding Intensity in Training18:26 The Importance of Recovery and Grip Strength21:26 Finding Alternative Training Methods24:25 Empowerment Through Strength Training28:33 Understanding Recovery and Readiness29:25 Personal Growth and Movement Evolution30:56 The Shift from Rigid Training to Playful Movement33:10 The Importance of Play in Movement36:36 Overcoming Psychological Barriers in Fitness38:13 Navigating Limiting Beliefs in Fitness41:44 The Role of Relationships in Personal Growth48:09 The Impact of Rolfing on Physical Practice53:10 The Value of Bodywork and Partner Engagement 59:19 Empowering Client Relationships01:02:15 The Importance of Listening in Bodywork 01:04:58 Active Participation in Healing01:07:45 Partner-Based Bodywork Techniques01:11:09 Tips for Effective At-Home Massage01:15:44 Identifying Universal Epicenters of Tension 01:19:38Finding Your Movement PracticeSUPPORT THE PODCAST. FIND OUT YOUR MOVEMENT SCORE. FTO WEBSITE. FTO YOUTUBE.

Series 7 is here!! This series is all about PRACTICE. In episode 1, we discuss Joachim's journey into training, his experiences with an autoimmune disease, and how dietary changes, particularly the carnivore diet, transformed his health. We also delve into the importance of finding a training style that suits individual needs, the impact of injuries on training paths, and unique training techniques like toe point and dislocates. Throughout the discussion, we emphasise the significance of balancing strength and flexibility in a holistic approach to health and fitness.Chapters00:00 Journey into Training and Bodybuilding04:37 Family Perspectives on Health and Nutrition08:32 Personal Health Journey and Autoimmune Issues12:29 Dietary Changes and Nutritional Philosophy20:36 Training Evolution and Movement Culture24:32 Exploring Flexibility and Injury Recovery30:32 The Impact of Social Media on Training Trends31:53 Reflections on Training Journeys36:31 Rediscovering Strength and Flexibility42:29 The Art of Dislocates and Shoulder Flexibility52:22Balancing Flexibility and Strength Training01:04:02Optimizing Training for Individual Strengths01:06:04 The Focus on Flexibility Training01:07:56 Training Splits and Recovery Strategies01:11:18 Understanding Client Readiness and Recovery01:13:24 Tailoring Training for Beginners01:14:52 The Importance of Client Communication01:17:06 Balancing Frequency and Intensity in Training01:19:19 The Role of Deloads in Training01:22:09 Mental Aspects of Mobility Training01:35:23 Personal Growth Through TrainingONLINE COACHING.SUPPORT THE PODCAST.FTO WEBSITE.

The final episode in the series is long overdue, as it features a conversation with one of my best friends. Nil Teisner is amongst many things, a Movement Teacher, Skater and Acrobat. In this final conversation of the Fear & Risk series, we explore the themes of movement, self-discovery, and our own relationships with - you guessed it - risk and fear. The discussion dives into Nil's journey from skateboarding to acrobatics, the importance of repetition in learning, and how injuries can impact one's movement practice. We also touch on the significance of creativity in naming movements and the concept of micro variations. The conversation culminates in an announcement about an upcoming workshop in Lisbon, emphasizing the connection between confidence and creativity... Nils website: https://nilteisner.de/en/ To support the podcast and allow us to make this experience better and better, please consider joining our growing patreon community. For just the price of a coffee per month you will get plenty of benefits. Visit: patreon.com/figuringthingoutpodcast For coaching, courses and more: www.figuringthingsout.com Keep Figuring things out...

Series 6 of the FTO Podcast explores the topic of Fear & Risk. Episode 4 is one of the best of the chats so far on the poddy! Tom is an OG Podcaster and it shows. He has a natural way of sharing incredible value in such a short time. I very much enjoyed this conversation, and I think you will also. Tom shares his journey into fatherhood and the challenges that come with it, including the constant fluctuation between fear and responsibility. He discusses the importance of understanding the mind-body connection and how it relates to personal growth and resilience. Tom emphasises the difference between pursuing 'more' versus 'better' in life, and how clarity and character play crucial roles in achieving personal goals. He also explores the dynamics of coaching versus therapy, highlighting the importance of actionable steps in personal development. To support the podcast and allow us to make this experience better and better, please consider joining our growing patreon community. For just the price of a coffee per month you will get plenty of benefits. Visit: patreon.com/figuringthingoutpodcast For coaching, courses and more: www.figuringthingsout.com Keep Figuring things out...

Series 6 of the Figuring Things Out Podcast explores the topic of Fear & Risk. In this conversation, Aaron shares his journey from a rural upbringing in Australia to becoming a lawyer, and ultimately transitioning into a movement teacher. He discusses the pivotal moments in his life, including personal challenges and the role of movement in his healing process. The conversation explores themes of fear, risk, and the importance of creating a safe space for children and students. Aaron emphasizes the value of experiences over material possessions and the significance of embodying the philosophies one teaches. *Strong Themes relating to alcohol are involved in this conversation. To see more of Aaron's work: www.aarongriffiths.com.au To support the podcast and allow us to make this experience better and better, please consider joining our growing patreon community. For just the price of a coffee per month you will get plenty of benefits. Visit: patreon.com/figuringthingoutpodcast For coaching, courses and more: www.figuringthingsout.com Keep Figuring things out...

Series 6 is upon us!! This series we explore fear & risk... How does perception of risk influence fear? How does one learn to trust risk/reward assessments to help move past overwhelming fear? How to stay present when fear grips you? What physiological signs can we note to help stay cool when things begin to heat up... This series aims to related extreme experiences to everyday life. In this episode we speak with Louis Allan, an incredibly bold and skill parkour and cliff jumping athlete. Through his company 'Exploring Fear' he works with people to create a better relationship to fear, not only in physical situations, but also in more everyday, interpersonal situations. To see more of his work: www.exploringfear.com To support the podcast directly, and take the conversation further: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcastEvery penny we earn here goes right back into the podcast to make it as good as possible for you guys! For coaching, courses and in person learning: www.figuringthingsout.com Listen for the Christmas gift! Keep figuring things out...

Dr Sally Bell is a medical professional from the UK. She worked as a GP for many years before deciding to step away, in her words “I felt so frustrated. I felt like a pharmaceutical vending machine” In this conversation Sally outlines what the health system in the UK could do better, and how she aims to work with her own patients to support them as an individual. She outlines her Wellness Framework, and how she applies this in the real world for better long term health and wellbeing. This is a really interesting conversation with someone who really cares about the people she is helping. I’m really happy to share this with you. If you’d like to connect with Sally and her work, you can find her on instagram: @drsallybell To support the podcast, we are excited to share our first few affiliate links below! You can also join our patreon community and of course, be coached by Wil via the FTO website. Website: Www.figuringthingsout.com Patreon: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠⁠⁠⁠

Olivier Goetgeluck is a coach that aims to help driven individuals in business, sports and the arts playfully connect with their bodies in order to mobilize authentic self-expression and liberate possibility. In this exciting conversation we discuss the topic of longevity… We explore longevity through various angles, from why spontaneity is vital, to why controlling parents ruine childhood potential without even realising it. Olivier expands on his years of childhood coaching, and how that helps inform his current work with business professionals seeking a more authentic and sustainable life. Thanks Olivier, this truly was a fun and enlightening conversation that resonated from the get go! To support the podcast, we are excited to share our first few affiliate links below! You can also join our patreon community and of course, be coached by Wil via the FTO website. Website: Www.figuringthingsout.com Patreon: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠⁠⁠⁠

Sebastien Foucan is one of the founders of Parkour. Now 50 years old, he still moves with the energy and vitality of a young teen. I sat down with him to find out his secrets, to understand his story and to hear about where it all began… Topics include: The Foucan Methodology, Sebastien’s Personal Journey, How Parkour really began, Barefoot Living, Self Care, Seasonal Training and more… To support the podcast, we are excited to share our first few affiliate links below! You can also join our patreon community and of course, be coached by Wil via the FTO website. Website: Www.figuringthingsout.com Patreon: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠⁠

David Wilson AKA Oldscoolmoves is a teacher turned mover who is passionate about turning the conversation on aging, fighting back against ageism. Once a school teacher, David began to really dive into movement in his 50s, and now empowers hundreds of thousands of others via his social media. In our conversation, I learn about negative aging attitudes, how to embrace aging with compassion and growth, overcoming barriers and limiting mindsets and how to address fears when restarting a physical practice. Amazing free aging resource: www.oldschool.info To support the podcast, we are excited to share our first few affiliate links below! You can also join our patreon community and of course, be coached by Wil via the FTO website. Website: Www.figuringthingsout.com Patreon: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠

S4:E5 - Learning Series. In this episode Flynn and I discuss personal experiences, communication techniques, and the role of movement in personal growth. We explore the interplay between internal experiences and external performance, highlighting the importance of technology and bodily intelligence. Additionally, we delve into the concept of joy and its relationship with sensory experiences, attention, and the potential benefits of Flynn’s research programs. Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠ For online coaching, courses and more: www.figuringthingsout.com To support the ongoing podcast efforts, please join our community here: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast

S4:E4 - LEARNING. Lisa Chaves is a movement practitioner and coach living in Costa Rica. Originally from Canada, she had a long career personal training in NY, before a major life event changed her path. In this episode she explains her passion for movement, sensitivity and exploration, and how finding joy through movement is the keystone to learning - and unlearning.  Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠ To support the podcast, and get involved with the community: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast For coaching, online courses, workshops and more: www.figuringthingsout.com

S4:E3 - Learning Series. Possibly the nicest guy in movement? What a conversation this was! Honestly we could have gone for another few hours, so if you’d like to hear more of our conversations please let us know.   We discussed Aarons journey through parkour and into movement, his current research study, measuring backflip efficiency and the relationship between internal vs external states when moving.  We explore in depth ideas pertaining to learning, styles, methods and philosophy. Aaron is a wealth of knowledge and there were avenues we could have explored over and over. Listen until the end to hear a brilliant example is his passion and knowledge, with a special improv section we added in the moment.  Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠ To support the podcast, and get involved with the community: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast For coaching, online courses, workshops and more: www.figuringthingsout.com

S4:E2 - Learning series. In this conversation Joseph explores the importance of authentic communication, connection, and learning in personal development. We discuss our experiences with movement culture and digital devices, and compare this to Josephs experience of a forest school eduction, the current educational system, and the importance of understanding and addressing cognitive and physical limitations in a supportive manner. Finally we talk about the learning competency model, and Joseph's approach to learning outside of the physical practices, such as with piano and language. Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠ To support the podcast and get involved with the growing community: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast For coaching, online courses, movement workshops and retreats: www.figuringthingsout.com

S4:E1 - Learning series. Udo Neumann is one of Europe’s most prolific climbing coaches, having won the world title with not one, but two German Athletes in the same year! (Jan Hojer & Jule Wurm) We discuss various aspects of athletic performance, including training methods, visualization techniques, and the balance between agitation and rest. We explore the differences between boulder gym climbing and traditional climbing, the benefits of versatility in sports, and the importance of cultural differences in learning and athletic performance. Lastly, we share some personal experiences and recommended resources for further learning, with a focus on skill-based learning and strategic thinking. Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠ To support the podcast and join the growing figuring things out community: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast For coaching, courses, events and more: www.figuringthingsout.com

S3:E5 - Creativity series. This discussion is about the creative process, the importance of listening, and the challenges of adapting to the online world. Tom Weskler and Roser Tutusaus explained the concept of 'priming' or warming up as a crucial part of their creative practice. We then discussed creativity, inspiration, and the challenges of sharing creative work. How to have dialogue within the creative process and the role of upbringing in shaping one's creative journey. Can one teach creativity, particularly through movement? The discussion revolved around creating the right space, permissions, and challenges to foster creativity. The importance of communication, both in teaching and in the creative process, was also emphasized.  Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠ To support the podcast: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast For coaching, courses, workshops and more: www.figuringthingsout.com

S3:E4 - Creativity series. The conversation between Wil and George Mayfield, a parkour practitioner and performer for Justice in Motion, discusses their shared interest in climbing and how George's background in parkour influences his approach to climbing. George also shared his childhood experiences and how he got into parkour. We discuss the evolution of parkour, its philosophy, and the personal experiences of George. The conversation also touched on the challenges of training in different conditions, the shift from competitive to artistic expression, and the integration of parkour with other forms of movement like dance. We discussed the challenges of transitioning between various disciplines, the importance of self-guided training, and the role of creativity in our work. We also touched on the social impact of our work, particularly George's involvement with Justice in Motion, a theater company addressing social injustices and his involvement with a nature charity. George shared his experiences of working with inner-city children, teaching them about nature and the outdoors. The conversation also touched on the concept of 'animalistic' movement and its influence on parkour and theatre.  Bulldog  “WBROWN7” for 10% off your next gym gear purchase.  Or comply click this link: http://bulldoggear.com/WBROWN7 Surreal  “WIL15” for 15% off your next healthy cereal purchase. Or simply click this link: ⁠http://eatsurreal.co.uk/?ref=wbrown7⁠ To support us via patreon: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast