Craig Constantine

Andy Fisher: Teaching, journey, and efficacy

September 25, 2019

Andy Fisher: Teaching, journey, and efficacy

How can personal passion projects and unconventional pursuits outside the classroom enhance teaching effectiveness and foster authentic connections with students?

Andy Fisher discusses being a teacher, why he loves it, and how his pursuit of his passions relates to the classroom. He shares his unique and unexpected movement journey before explaining how all of that relates to the passion projects he regularly pursues, such as the Thronin and Hero Forge projects. Andy discusses his thoughts on efficacy, his current struggles and how he manages and works towards overcoming them.

At the age of 11, I was sent to a boarding school in the UK […] Every morning at seven o’clock, an alarm bell was rung, and all of the kids got up, and we had to do a two and a half-mile run. I was the last to come through wheezing and coughing, and by the time I showed up, all the breakfast had gone. There was just a certain point where I just thought, ‘Enough, I’m not going to have this define my life.’ I made the decision that I wasn’t going to be defined by my condition, and that I could grow.
~ Andy Fisher (12:53)

The conversation explores how unconventional pursuits such as knife-throwing, wilderness survival, and circus performance inform and enhance teaching practice. By bringing these passion projects into the classroom, the importance of authentic connection and engaging with students beyond the curriculum emerges. Themes of resilience, personal growth, and fostering curiosity run throughout the dialogue.

Andy Fisher discusses his journey from asthmatic child to martial artist, teacher, and survival instructor, illustrating how personal challenge translates into valuable lessons for students. The balance between discipline and compassion plays a critical role in shaping both his personal life and professional teaching philosophy.

Takeaways

Bridging passion and teaching — Personal pursuits outside of work can deepen engagement with students.

Resilience through experience — Overcoming personal limitations can shape a stronger, more empathetic teaching style.

Authenticity in education — Teachers benefit from sharing personal struggles and successes with students.

Physical challenges and growth — Embracing physically demanding hobbies like survival training builds discipline.

Continuous learning — Remaining a learner outside the classroom informs and inspires teaching.

Resources

Hero Forge Project — Andy Fisher’s podcast and book exploring personal development and heroism.

Hero Roundtable — Conferences discussing heroism and leadership.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Kasturi Torchia: Mental wellbeing, Esprit Concrete, and sharing

September 18, 2019

Kasturi Torchia: Mental wellbeing, Esprit Concrete, and sharing

How can the integration of psychology and movement practices contribute to mental wellbeing and personal growth?

Kasturi Torchia describes her role with Parkour UK, and how she came to be involved in mental wellbeing and psychology studies. She discusses her family and how they impacted her journey, before unpacking the Esprit Concrete method she has developed. Kasturi shares some of her goals and what she is working on with Esprit Concrete, and discusses the yearly Les Dames du Movement event.

Esprit Concrete is something that was so organic, that it’s really hard to pinpoint what exactly [started it.] But I think that the really strange encounter that I had with Parkour, came at a really important time in my life where I was reflecting on what was happening and trying to make a change. I just needed something, without knowing that I needed it, to jolt me into seeing things differently, changing perspectives on things.
~ Kasturi Torchia (6:30)

The conversation explores the intersection of psychology and movement, focusing on how Kasturi’s personal experiences led her to create the Esprit Concrete Method. Her work integrates psychological principles with Parkour and Art du Déplacement, addressing mental wellbeing through movement. Kasturi reflects on how childhood influences and a desire to understand human behavior guided her journey towards psychology.

Another key topic is the development of the Esprit Concrete Method as a tool for self-reflection and personal growth. The method helps participants confront vulnerabilities and use movement as a metaphor for psychological challenges. Kasturi also highlights the significance of community events, such as Les Dames Du Movement, which bring together diverse practitioners to foster learning and collaboration.

Takeaways

Integration of psychology and movement — Personal growth and mental health can be addressed through movement practices.

Esprit Concrete Method — A framework blending Parkour, Art du Déplacement, and psychological principles to foster development.

Duty of Care in Parkour UK — Emphasis on safeguarding mental wellbeing and establishing support networks.

Challenges in movement — Physical movements reflect deeper psychological patterns and areas for growth.

Les Dames Du Movement — Community-focused events promoting collaboration across disciplines.

Resources

Esprit Concrete — Kasturi’s platform integrating movement and therapy.

Parkour UK — National governing body for Parkour, focusing on mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

Les Dames Du Movement — Annual community event promoting movement and mental health.

Get Self Help — Website providing self-help resources and CBT worksheets.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Georgia Munroe: Goals, Ninja Warrior, and coaching

September 11, 2019

Georgia Munroe: Goals, Ninja Warrior, and coaching

How does the relationship between creative hobbies, personal challenges, and coaching shape the practice and development of movement disciplines?

Georgia Munroe explains her interest in music and how that relates to her parkour practice, as well as how she became interested in parkour. She discusses the challenges and goals she is working on, before sharing her experiences with motion capture and Ninja Warrior. Georgia unpacks her thoughts on coaching, her personal journey of improving as a coach, and how coaching has affected her own parkour practice.

We always struggle with so much […] like when you first start, everything is fresh, everything is new. The only goal is to just turn up, and you get on with it. […] And now, when you start to find your footing, you start to see your character in your movement, you also see your insecurities, you also see the things that are harder than other things to do. You also see what your fears are, and facing your fears or seeing your fears, you want to overcome them. It’s scary, and you don’t want to, but you want to at the same time.
~ Georgia Munroe (17:32)

The conversation explores the interplay between creative hobbies, such as music and movement disciplines like parkour. Music provides Georgia with a natural sense of rhythm and timing, directly influencing how she approaches physical training and performance. This relationship highlights how artistic practices can cross-pollinate with athletic endeavors, enriching each in unexpected ways.

Another central theme is the transformative power of coaching and personal growth. Georgia reflects on the emotional challenges she faced, particularly her fear of failure, and how coaching others mirrors her own internal struggles. As she develops her coaching skills, she learns to manage self-doubt and anxiety, which ultimately enhances her ability to guide others. Her experiences competing in Ninja Warrior reveal how even high-stress environments can evolve from terrifying to enjoyable through mindset shifts and practice.

Takeaways

The influence of music on movement — Music provides rhythm and timing that directly translates to improved flow and efficiency in physical practice.

Facing personal fears — Overcoming fear and insecurity plays a major role in progressing as an athlete and coach.

The role of coaching in self-development — Coaching requires significant self-reflection and growth, shaping the way instructors manage both their own fears and those of their students.

Mindset shifts during competition — Competing in challenging environments like Ninja Warrior transitions from overwhelming to rewarding by focusing on relaxation and enjoying the process.

Embracing hard work over talent — Relying solely on talent can be limiting, while sustained effort and perseverance lead to greater long-term achievements.

The emotional journey of learning — Success often requires facing discomfort, repeated failure, and developing resilience.

Resources

Esprit Concrete — Coaching organization where Georgia Munroe trains and coaches, focusing on movement and mental development.

Ninja Warrior UK — Competitive obstacle course show in which Georgia Munroe competed, testing athleticism and mental resilience.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Naomi Honey: Dance, coaching, and self talk

September 4, 2019

Naomi Honey: Dance, coaching, and self talk

How does engaging in movement practices like Forró and parkour contribute to personal growth, emotional development, and professional coaching?

Naomi Honey shares her experiences learning the Brazilian dance of Forró, and how it relates to her other movement practices. She unpacks her work as a life coach; what that means, how it works, and why she loves it so much. Naomi wraps up by discussing her thoughts on her current interests, the idea of success, and self talk.

[It’s] amazing. I’m the cheerleader while they’re doing it, and while it’s difficult. And I’m the cheerleader when there’s success. And then—one of my absolute favorite moments—coaching is designed to end at some point.
~ Naomi Honey (11:45)

Naomi Honey discusses how her experiences with Brazilian dance and parkour have shaped her personal and professional life. She highlights the contrast between the individual nature of parkour and the partner-based dynamics of Forró, a Brazilian dance she has been practicing for over a year. Naomi shares how these practices have enhanced her ability to listen to her body and respond intuitively, revealing unexpected emotional blocks and new ways of engaging with others.

Her work as a life coach focuses on helping people recognize and overcome personal obstacles, drawing from her movement experiences. Naomi explains how self-talk plays a critical role in both movement and life coaching, recounting workshops where participants verbalize negative inner dialogues to foster awareness and shift perspectives. She also emphasizes the importance of celebrating effort over results, demonstrating how encouragement and playful experimentation foster growth and confidence in movement and beyond.

Takeaways

Engaging in movement practices — reveals emotional and mental blocks that impact personal growth.

Life coaching integrates physical practices — combining parkour and dance helps address personal fears and limitations.

Self-talk awareness — recognizing and addressing negative internal dialogue improves movement and emotional resilience.

Parkour’s impact on personal growth — confronting physical obstacles mirrors the process of overcoming psychological challenges.

The value of celebration and encouragement — celebrating effort rather than success fosters persistence and emotional well-being.

Physical closeness in dance — offers unique opportunities to explore connection and interpersonal dynamics, filling gaps not addressed by parkour.

Coaching designed to end — successful coaching encourages clients to become independent while maintaining ongoing connections for support.

Resources

Flytality — Naomi Honey’s life coaching business where she helps people achieve personal and professional goals.

Parcon by Andrew Suseno — A fusion of parkour and contact improvisation that explores movement through physical interaction with others.

Gerlev Idrætshøjskole — A movement-focused school in Denmark specializing in parkour and physical education.

Women’s International Parkour Weekend — An event organized by Parkour Generations to advance parkour training and self-talk awareness for women.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Charlotte Miles: Motivation, emotional recovery, and purpose

August 28, 2019

Charlotte Miles: Motivation, emotional recovery, and purpose

What motivates someone to engage deeply in coaching, creativity, and physical training, and how do personal struggles and life experiences shape this engagement?

Charlotte Miles shares her motivations for coaching, why it’s important to her, and how it fits into her life. She digs into more difficult topics; energy and emotional recovery, personal struggles, and her experiences with mortality and grief. Charlotte discusses how parkour affects her life, her definition of success, and finishes with real life superpowers and finding purpose.

Being strong, there is no frame of reference for that. There’s no ‘I once was’ and so there’s no return. It’s a completely new thing. It’s a blank canvas. And that can be as scary as it is exciting.
~ Charlotte Miles (15:00)

Charlotte discusses her work as a coach, filmmaker, and movement enthusiast, reflecting on how physical training intersects with personal growth. She describes parkour as a therapeutic practice that forces her to confront fear and emotional barriers, emphasizing that her biggest obstacles are often mental rather than physical. Charlotte highlights the unique space women occupy in strength and conditioning and the importance of encouraging curiosity and strength in female athletes.

A significant part of the conversation explores mortality and how Charlotte’s personal experiences with loss shape her sense of urgency and purpose. She shares how storytelling and coaching allow her to uncover powerful messages within others and transform them into impactful narratives. Charlotte speaks candidly about balancing her intense work ethic with the need for rest, acknowledging the challenges of being emotionally open and the importance of staying present.

Takeaways

Training and curiosity — Emphasizing curiosity over performance allows for personal growth and encourages women to explore their physical potential.

Mortality and urgency — Experiencing loss reshapes priorities, fostering a mindset that values immediacy and essential tasks.

Storytelling as impact — Creating resonant, emotional stories can drive deeper personal and societal change than surface-level entertainment.

Fear in parkour — Mental barriers often limit physical capability, with parkour acting as a mirror to confront deeper personal fears.

Coaching intensity — Leading others into intense physical and emotional spaces requires equal responsibility to bring them back to stability.

Self-awareness and solitude — Balancing energy through solitude and movement helps manage the emotional demands of coaching and creative work.

Resources

Iron Heart Studios — Charlotte Miles’ media company focused on storytelling and film production.

Parkour Generations — Organization where Charlotte manages creative direction and media.

Barbell Shrugged — Podcast and strength and conditioning brand Charlotte collaborated with.

Going Right — Logan Gelbrich’s’ book on pursuing passion and purpose over conventional paths.

Women’s International Parkour Weekend (WIPW) — An event focusing on women in parkour and strength training.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Gogoly Yao: Journey, Esprit Concrete, and challenges

August 21, 2019

Gogoly Yao: Journey, Esprit Concrete, and challenges

How can addressing personal fears and vulnerabilities through movement practices lead to deeper personal growth and stronger community connections?

Gogoly Yao explains his background and the journey that led him to where he is now. He discusses how he first encountered parkour, and his work on Esprit Concrete with Kasturi Torchia. Yao shares his current challenges and what he is working on, and discusses his training with Esprit Concrete team member Georgia Munroe.

My focus in training has never been really about the movement. It has been about my fears. Like I said, that’s where it started, but I didn’t know at the time. I didn’t know a lot of things. I didn’t know where it was, what I was looking for, and what I could get.
~ Gogoly Yao (11:50)

Yao’s journey in parkour and movement began as a way to confront personal fears, including heights and physical vulnerability. His initial focus on power and large movements shifted after injuries forced him to explore conditioning and smaller, more controlled actions. This gradual change led to deeper self-awareness and a new approach to training, rooted in addressing psychological barriers.

Esprit Concrete, co-founded by Yao, reflects this philosophy by blending physical practice with emotional growth. The project focuses on guiding individuals to recognize their vulnerabilities and develop a personalized path forward, emphasizing personal agency and choice. The conversation highlights the balance between teaching others and continuing personal growth, with Yao candidly sharing his ongoing struggles with trust and control.

Takeaways

Trust and vulnerability — Trusting others is difficult but necessary for growth.

Training through fear — Addressing personal fears through movement leads to deeper progress.

Freedom in movement — Movement practices offer a sense of liberation and personal exploration.

Emotional strength — True strength lies beyond physical ability, involving emotional and mental resilience.

Individual perception — Understanding personal perceptions helps in addressing personal limitations.

Resources

Esprit Concrete — The project co-founded by Yao that blends movement practice with emotional growth and self-discovery.

Yamakasi Documentary — A film showcasing the origins of parkour that inspired Yao’s interest in the practice.

Kasturi Torchia @dr.ktorchia — Yao’s collaborator at Esprit Concrete, contributing psychological insight to the project.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Andy Pearson: Failure, inspiration, and injuries

August 14, 2019

Andy Pearson: Failure, inspiration, and injuries

How can a coach ensure their students surpass their own skills and preserve the essence of parkour over generations?

Andy Pearson unpacks why he considers himself a failed coach, and dives into what he believes his job as a coach to be. He shares his insights on where to look for coaching and training inspiration outside of parkour, before going through the litany of injuries he’s had, and explaining how they have shaped his training. Andy discusses his current training and how he expects it to grow and evolve, before wrapping up with his thoughts on FIG and the Olympics.

There are a lot of kids out there that are much, much better than I am […] I was thinking about this metric: Out of all of my students, can I actually think of anybody that has gone on and I’ve actually made them better than I am? I’m not talking about them. I’m talking about my ability as a coach, and therefore am I failing? Am I failing because therefore there’s going to be this dilution. Because if they then go on to be coaches and they do the same thing to their students and so on and so forth, are we going to be gradually losing what it means? …what parkour is about?
~ Andy Pearson (6:00)

The conversation explores Andy’s reflections on his coaching career, questioning whether his methods genuinely allow students to surpass his own abilities. Andy grapples with the idea that shielding students from the mistakes he made may unintentionally dilute essential learning experiences. He discusses how past injuries and his evolving perspective on training are reshaping his coaching philosophy.

Andy highlights the value of exploring strength and conditioning disciplines outside of parkour to enhance his coaching. He references strength coaches like Mark Rippetoe and training systems like StrongFit as critical resources. The discussion also touches on the contrast between structured coaching environments and the organic, unstructured paths taken by top parkour athletes, raising questions about the future direction of parkour training.

Takeaways

Training outside parkour — Exploring strongman training, Olympic lifting, and powerlifting provides valuable insights for improving parkour coaching.

Student progression — A key measure of a coach’s success is the number of students who surpass their abilities.

Injuries and resilience — Past injuries inform coaching methods, shaping approaches to protect students without limiting their growth.

Organic learning — Some of the best parkour practitioners develop without formal coaching, raising questions about the effectiveness of structured classes.

Strength programming — Applying principles of strength programming to parkour can help athletes break through plateaus and build resilience.

Resources

Starting Strength — Mark Rippetoe’s comprehensive guide to strength training fundamentals.

Practical Programming for Strength Training — Mark Rippetoe’s’ follow-up to Starting Strength, this book dives deeper into programming and periodization for strength progression.

Jim Wendler’s 5/3/1 Program — A simple and effective strength training program designed for long-term progress, emphasizing core lifts and incremental gains.

Precision Nutrition — A leading educational platform for nutrition coaching and certification, providing in-depth resources on diet, health, and athletic performance.

Barbell Shrugged Podcast — A podcast and video series that explores fitness, strength training, CrossFit, and the business of health and wellness.

Pavel Tsatsouline Resources — Pavel is known for popularizing kettlebell training in the U.S. and offers resources on strength training and conditioning, particularly for military and special forces applications.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Steve Zavitz: Freelancing, artistic process, and parkour culture

August 7, 2019

Steve Zavitz: Freelancing, artistic process, and parkour culture

What drives someone to transition from a traditional career path into a freelance life focused on parkour photography and videography, and what insights can they share about this journey?

Steve Zavitz shares his passion for parkour photography and film: from his transition to freelancing, his process, and what he likes to create. He discusses the changing style and culture around parkour videos, and the impact social media has had. Steve reflects on the evolving culture, audience, and growth of parkour, and what that means for communities today.

It was in the back of my head where I was like, ‘You know, eventually, I would like to be working fully for myself, being a freelance photographer, videographer, doing my own thing.’ But it wasn’t like I have a three-year plan or a five-year plan or whatever. It was just, I’m going to go out and shoot stuff that I really like doing because I want to, because I need to, almost.
~ Steve Zavitz (11:45)

The conversation explores Steve Zavitz’s path from working in various traditional jobs to transitioning into a full-time freelance career centered around parkour photography and videography. Steve recounts his early experiences capturing parkour scenes on low-quality cameras, highlighting the incremental steps that led to his professional break working with prominent parkour brands. His approach to building a portfolio emphasizes pursuing personal passions rather than following trends, which ultimately led to organic growth and recognition in the parkour community.

In addition to discussing the creative and technical aspects of his work, Steve reflects on the evolving parkour culture and the shifting landscape of content creation. He touches on the growing prevalence of daily parkour posts on social media and how that contrasts with the slower-paced, community-driven videos of the past. The dialogue also reveals concerns about how gym-based parkour might inadvertently limit resilience and self-directed learning in newer practitioners.

Takeaways

The journey to freelancing — Transitioning from traditional employment to freelance work often involves years of side projects and incremental growth.

Parkour culture through videos — Parkour videos once centered on community and lifestyle but are now often shaped by social media trends, leading to more polished but less personal content.

Creative persistence — Shooting and editing work that aligns with personal interests fosters long-term success, rather than chasing trends or producing content solely for commercial appeal.

Role of editing in storytelling — Editing parkour photos or videos should enhance but not distort the narrative, balancing honesty with artistic refinement.

Generational shifts in parkour — Older practitioners view parkour through the lens of community and shared experiences, whereas newer participants may focus more on individual performance and social media presence.

Resources

Tempest Freerunning — One of the parkour brands Steve Zavitz has worked with, known for high-profile parkour athletes and creative projects.

The Motus Project — A parkour brand focused on high-quality parkour apparel and media.

Skochypstiks — A parkour clothing brand Steve collaborates with, producing movement-focused apparel.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Sean Hannah: Designing curriculum, teaching seniors, and the mid-range

July 31, 2019

Sean Hannah: Designing curriculum, teaching seniors, and the mid-range

How can Parkour principles be adapted to improve the health, mobility, and confidence of seniors?

Sean Hannah takes us deep into curriculum development; how he researches, the importance of games and fun, and developing with specific audiences in mind. He discusses his role in designing the curriculum for the PK Move Study with Marymount University, and the specific challenges it presented. Sean shares advice on coaching and designing for adults and seniors, before unpacking his current personal curriculum and goals.

We’re going to spend a lot of time on the Single Point. …and for all the Mine Craft kids listening out there, my Fortnight players who want to do Parkour… Single Point is still your best training tool. It’s seriously overlooked in the [parkour] community because it’s hard to make money selling ninja stuff, where you’re just standing on one foot for a while.
~ Sean Hannah (20:50)

The conversation explores how Parkour can be adapted to address the unique physical and psychological challenges seniors face, focusing on fall prevention and improving overall mobility. It highlights the development of PK Silver, a Parkour program designed for older adults, and details the thought process behind designing a curriculum that makes movement both accessible and enjoyable for this age group. Games and creative scenarios are used to build strength and confidence in seniors, ultimately improving their quality of life.

The discussion also covers a study conducted with Marymount University, which examined the effectiveness of Parkour-based training for seniors. Emphasis is placed on low-impact, balance-focused exercises that encourage participants to overcome fear and improve their autonomy. The curriculum emphasizes simple but essential movements, such as getting up from the ground or navigating stairs, reimagined through the lens of Parkour. The success of the program demonstrates that the core tenets of Parkour—play, exploration, and adaptability—can have significant benefits for populations traditionally excluded from high-intensity physical disciplines.

Takeaways

Applying Parkour to seniors — Parkour can be adapted to improve balance, mobility, and confidence in seniors by focusing on simple, practical movements.

Fall prevention — Parkour’s focus on controlled landings and body awareness directly addresses the leading cause of injury and death among seniors.

Curriculum development — Designing a curriculum for seniors requires rethinking basic movement patterns, emphasizing balance, and starting from simple, low-risk activities.

Perception and fear — One of the biggest obstacles in teaching Parkour to seniors is overcoming the fear and perception that Parkour is dangerous or exclusive to younger people.

Fun and games — Reframing daily tasks as games or challenges can make movement enjoyable, reducing fear and increasing engagement.

Physical autonomy — The program emphasizes movements that directly improve seniors’ ability to navigate their environment, preserving independence and reducing fall risk.

Movement at all ages — Parkour principles apply universally, from children to seniors, reinforcing that movement exploration is valuable throughout life.

Importance of walking — Simple skills like walking are often overlooked but are essential for mobility and can be developed through Parkour-based practices.

Parkour for middle-aged adults — Programs like 401 PK show that Parkour can also address the needs of adults over 35, focusing on sustainable and low-impact movement.

Resources

PK Move — Nonprofit organization focused on bringing Parkour to seniors and special populations.

Marymount University — Partnered with PK Move to conduct a study on the effectiveness of Parkour for seniors.

Art of Retreat — An event where the PK Silver program was presented to the Parkour community.

Urban Evolution — Gym where curriculum for adults over 35 (401 PK) was developed and implemented.

American College of Sports Medicine — Hosting the presentation of the Marymount University study on Parkour for seniors.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Movers Mindset Team: Roles, remote work, and passion

July 24, 2019

Movers Mindset Team: Roles, remote work, and passion

What are the unique roles and collaborative processes behind the production of Movers Mindset podcast episodes?

In our special 50th episode, the Movers Mindset team gets together to discuss what we do, and how far we’ve come. Each team member explains what they do in the team, and how all of our roles fit together. We talk about working remotely, the freedoms and challenges that come with it, and some of the strategies we use to help with that. The team discusses favorite episodes, things we’ve learned, and what each of us has found to be very special about the project.

The thing that I’m really passionate about is that we have a platform, Movers Mindset is a platform that can give people a voice.
~ Melissa Way (10:27)

Movers Mindset team members explain how they balance creativity and organization while managing the complexities of remote podcast production.

There’s something really, really special about when— I don’t know, just the simple fact of somebody being very interested in what someone has to say.
~ Miguel Chero (11:58)

The conversation explores the inner workings of the Movers Mindset podcast, highlighting the roles and responsibilities of the team members. The team discusses the collaborative process that allows them to manage podcast production remotely, balancing creativity, technical tasks, and the logistics of releasing weekly episodes. They describe how each member’s unique strengths contribute to the overall success of the podcast.

I handle production. I handle social media. I’m also the ‘no’ to every idea Craig tries to throw at us.
~ Kristen Swantek (15:25)

Topics such as remote work challenges, the importance of guest relations, and the structured workflows that keep the project organized are examined. The team reflects on their passion for storytelling and their commitment to providing a platform for voices that may not otherwise be heard. Additionally, the group shares anecdotes about the joys and occasional chaos involved in producing the podcast.

Takeaways

Creating episodes in advance — The team often works two to three months ahead of the release schedule.

Collaborative remote work — Weekly meetings and consistent communication help keep the remote team aligned.

Role specialization — Each member focuses on different aspects such as editing, social media, guest management, and production.

Platform for voices — Movers Mindset provides a space for lesser-known individuals to share their insights alongside more prominent figures.

Structured workflows — The podcast production process follows a structured path with numerous checkpoints and collaboration steps.

Emphasis on storytelling — The passion for storytelling and listening to people’s experiences drives the podcast’s success.

Dynamic problem solving — The team adapts quickly to unexpected issues, often relying on each other to solve problems creatively.

Resources

Basecamp — Project management tool used by the Movers Mindset team to coordinate tasks and projects.

Overcast — Podcast player referenced for listening to episodes.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Ryan Ford: Coaching methods, talent hotbeds, and cryptocurrency

July 17, 2019

Ryan Ford: Coaching methods, talent hotbeds, and cryptocurrency

What are the strategies and philosophies that guide building inclusive, innovative communities and leveraging multidisciplinary skills for growth?

Ryan Ford shares his thoughts on his Parkour EDU program, various coaching methods, and his experience of building a community. He discusses the idea of a talent hotbed, how and why it occurs, and how to apply those ideas, before delving into the world of crypto-currency. Ryan explains what crypto currency is, why he’s so interested in it, its potential for growth, and the similarities he sees between crypto and parkour.

The art of reinventing yourself and learning new skills is essential for the future.
~ Ryan Ford (23:16)

The conversation begins with an exploration of Ryan Ford’s work in developing a Parkour Strength for Adults program, which focuses on physical training as a gateway for adults into parkour. He explains his approach to making training scalable and welcoming, emphasizing community building through inclusive practices and partner interactions. The discussion touches on his inspiration from various movement disciplines and coaching methodologies, such as those by Ido Portal and Christopher Sommer.

Later, the conversation shifts to Ford’s interest in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. He highlights the parallels between parkour and crypto, such as decentralization, freedom, and global accessibility. Ford shares his experiments with using blockchain for parkour community projects, like decentralized bounties, and reflects on the potential of blockchain to democratize finance. The discussion concludes with reflections on balancing entrepreneurship, training, and innovation.

Takeaways

Parkour Strength for Adults — A program designed to make parkour accessible to a broader demographic by focusing on physical preparation.

Inclusive community-building — Encouraging partner interactions and mixing diverse skill levels in classes to foster engagement.

Parallels with blockchain — Exploring how parkour and crypto share principles of decentralization and freedom.

Scalable training methods — Techniques for adapting parkour training to different age groups and abilities.

Multidisciplinary inspiration — Drawing from varied fields like gymnastics, mobility training, and movement culture for parkour innovation.

Freedom and agency — Using parkour and crypto as tools for personal and financial autonomy.

Creative combinations — Leveraging diverse skill sets to create unique, impactful contributions.

Resources

Ryan Ford’s @ryanmford

Apex School of Movement — A parkour gym co-founded by Ryan Ford.

Parkour Strength — Ryan Ford’s book provides insights into parkour training.

The Talent Code — Daniel Coyle’s book exploring how talent hotbeds are cultivated, referenced in the conversation.

Yuval Noah Harari’s Books — Sapiens, Homo Deus, and 21 Lessons for the 21st Century, discussed for their historical and futuristic perspectives.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Amos Rendao: Journaling, nutrition, and self talk

July 10, 2019

Amos Rendao: Journaling, nutrition, and self talk

What does it take to balance creative passion, personal growth, and professional responsibility while navigating life’s unpredictable journey?

Amos Rendao reflects on what music means to him, flowing vs planning, and the benefits and importance of journalling. The conversation turns to the idea of success and what that means, before moving to Aikido, and information activism. Amos shares his insights on diet and nutrition, his journey with injuries and recovery, and how he manages self talk.

Journaling is such an important way to develop a relationship with yourself.
~ Amos Rendao (49:50)

The conversation covers the relationship between creativity, self-reflection, and structured productivity. Amos reflects on his deep connection with music, sharing how his early experiences in bands shifted to a hiatus as parkour and business took priority. He revisits his passion through home recording, finding renewed joy in music’s restorative power. This leads to broader discussions on the interplay between freeform exploration and the necessity of structure, reflecting on how Amos balances spontaneity with highly organized systems to maximize productivity.

Amos and Craig explore the transformative impact of journaling as a tool for self-awareness and growth. They discuss the challenges of maintaining consistency in habits, diet, and personal health while navigating entrepreneurial and athletic commitments. The dialogue also touches on the influence of aikido in shaping their movement practice, drawing parallels between martial arts and parkour. The broader theme highlights how embracing both structured goals and open-ended exploration can lead to deeper personal insight and development.

Takeaways

Journaling – A powerful tool for developing self-awareness, tracking personal growth, and identifying patterns over time.

Creativity and Flow – Revisiting creative passions can restore mental health and balance, even after long hiatuses.

Structured Productivity – Building organized systems around sleep, diet, and time management can significantly enhance efficiency.

Freeform Exploration – Spontaneous, unstructured days can lead to valuable experiences and insights, balancing out rigid schedules.

Movement and Recovery – Insights into how parkour, aikido, and other movement practices contribute to long-term physical resilience and injury recovery.

Diet and Performance – Experimenting with diet, fasting, and biohacking to improve mental clarity and athletic performance.

Community and Connection – The importance of community involvement, both in local parkour initiatives and broader projects like USPK.

Resources

APEX School of Movement — A movement school co-founded by Amos Rendao focused on parkour education.

Parkour EDU — An educational platform designed to teach parkour principles and coaching techniques.

USPK (United States Parkour Association) — A national organization dedicated to promoting and supporting parkour communities in the US.

Oura Ring — A health tracking device used by Amos to monitor sleep and activity data.

Your Personal Paleo Code by Chris Kresser — A book and program recommended by Amos for dietary experimentation and self-optimization.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Lynn Jung: Training, recovery, and goals

July 3, 2019

Lynn Jung: Training, recovery, and goals

How does moving to Brighton and experiencing injury influence an athlete’s approach to training, recovery, and personal growth?

Lynn Jung discusses Brighton, what it means to her, and how moving there affected her life. She unpacks how she approaches training, her movement background, and her journey of injury and recovery over the past few years. Lynn shares how she came to freerunning, her current projects, and her involvement with Storm Freerun and xDubai.

Then I moved to England where I didn’t know anyone other than my boyfriend which I think is a very hard situation to be in because you don’t always just want to spend time with one person. You need to have a broader network of people which was hard to build up first.
~ Lynn Jung (13:30)

The conversation focuses on Lynn Jung’s experiences moving to Brighton and how it shaped her personal and professional life. She shares how the move initially brought challenges, such as building a social network and dealing with the absence of indoor Parkour facilities. Despite these hurdles, Brighton eventually became her home, supported by a community of Freerunners who shared her lifestyle.

Lynn also reflects on the impact of injury, describing her recovery process and the mental shift it required. She explains how her injury led her to explore other physical activities like yoga and diving, broadening her understanding of movement. Professionally, Lynn discusses her involvement with Storm Freerun, her commercial work, and plans to develop skills in filmmaking and photography. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and adaptability in navigating her athletic career.

Takeaways

Brighton as a training environment — The city lacks dedicated Parkour facilities, which initially frustrated her but later pushed her to diversify her training.

Injury and recovery process — Lynn faced a severe tibia fracture, prompting a two-year recovery that reshaped her relationship with movement and rest.

Building community — Moving to Brighton required Lynn to actively form connections and step outside her comfort zone, enriching her experience.

Role of Storm Freerun — Joining Storm Freerun significantly impacted her career, offering professional opportunities and strengthening friendships.

Emotional connection to Freerunning — Freerunning became a refuge after personal loss, highlighting its role in her healing and personal growth.

Resources

Storm Freerun — A professional Parkour team Lynn is part of, involved in projects and community building.

XDubai — A Dubai-based company sponsoring athletes and promoting action sports.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Jean Lam: Corrective exercise, programming, and rehab

June 26, 2019

Jean Lam: Corrective exercise, programming, and rehab

What role does fear, physical limitations, and personal motivation play in pursuing movement-based activities as one ages?

Jean Lam reflects on how she became interested in fitness and eventually joined the industry, her love of movement, and what sports and activities she is involved in now. Jean discusses corrective exercise, and shares her insights on programming, motivation, and scope of practice. She goes into injury and rehab, before explaining how she keeps up with coaching best practices.

I think that failure is part of the equation. If everything you do guarantees success, you’re not going to ever expand and do more.
~ Jean Lam (14:20)

Jean Lam discusses her journey from being a self-described couch potato to becoming deeply involved in movement-based activities such as parkour, skiing, and aerial silks. She shares how discovering jazzercise in her twenties helped her lose weight and sustain her fitness for over 30 years. Jean emphasizes the importance of finding joy in physical activities and explains how parkour became a fun and functional way to apply the strength she built through traditional gym workouts. She reflects on how women can be inspired by seeing others engage in movement and how visibility plays a role in motivating participation.

Jean delves into the psychological aspects of fear and adrenaline in sports, contrasting her controlled approach with the more extreme pursuits of others. She highlights her involvement with PK Silver, a program designed to teach older adults parkour-inspired movement. Jean discusses the importance of addressing physical dysfunctions through corrective exercise, focusing on mobility and prehab. She stresses the need for fitness professionals to stay within their scope of practice and explains how she continuously educates herself to provide safe, science-based programming for clients.

Takeaways

Fear as a limiting factor — Addressing fear helps expand comfort zones and prevent further restriction of movement.

The role of fun in fitness — Enjoyable activities sustain long-term engagement with physical exercise.

Corrective exercise — Addressing physical dysfunctions is essential for safe and effective movement, especially as the body ages.

Scope of practice — Fitness professionals must recognize boundaries between training and medical treatment to avoid harm.

Motivation through community — Seeing others engage in movement inspires peers to take action and pursue their own fitness goals.

Aging and movement — Fitness routines should adapt to the needs of older adults by incorporating mobility and stability exercises.

Overcoming injuries — Recovery from acute injuries involves patience and may change how training is approached.

PK Silver programming — Teaching older adults movement-based skills involves addressing confidence, fear, and functional limitations.

Progression and adaptability — Programming for clients should evolve based on their capabilities, ensuring movements match their current physical state.

Physical limitations and self-awareness — Understanding personal limitations helps prevent injury and supports sustainable fitness progress.

Resources

PK Move — A non-profit dedicated to teaching parkour to all ages, including the PK Silver program for older adults.

Conversation with Fear — Mermer Blakeslee’s book exploring the psychology of fear and strategies for confronting it in sports and life.

Barbell Physio — A resource for strength and mobility training, founded by a physical therapist with a focus on functional movement.

Shift Movement Science — Provides educational resources on gymnastics and physical therapy for athletes.

National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) — Organization offering certifications in corrective exercise and fitness specializations.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Frank Mejia: World Chase Tag, coaching, and competition

June 19, 2019

Frank Mejia: World Chase Tag, coaching, and competition

What leads someone to transform personal passion for parkour into a career in coaching and movement education?

Frank Mejia discusses PK Move and Urban Evolution, and the path to how and why he became a coach. He reflects on his experience with World Chase Tag, explaining the game and its intricacies. Frank shares his thoughts on travel and the role it’s played in his journey, before wrapping up with his thoughts on competition.

Teaching is such a privilege. It’s so much fun to bring people up and show them this thing they didn’t think they could do.
~ Frank Mejia (13:20)

This conversation explores the journey of a parkour enthusiast transitioning into a coach, beginning with an incidental school project and evolving into a full-time commitment to movement education. Frank recounts how early skepticism about coaching shifted as he experienced the satisfaction of teaching and guiding others. His involvement with organizations like PK Move and Urban Evolution highlights his contributions to both senior fitness programs and general parkour instruction.

The discussion also touches on his participation in World Chase Tag, offering insights into the competitive aspects of the sport and the mental strategies involved in high-pressure movement environments. Frank reflects on how coaching has enriched his personal training and fostered community connections. Travel, competition, and collaboration emerge as recurring themes, showcasing the broader opportunities that parkour and coaching can provide.

Takeaways

The transition to coaching — Frank’s path to becoming a parkour coach began with a school project and gradually transformed into a passion for teaching.

Impact of coaching on personal training — Teaching others highlighted gaps in the guest’s personal practice, leading to self-improvement and more balanced training.

Community and connection — Observing the camaraderie and enjoyment among other coaches shifted Frank’s perception of teaching from a chore to a fulfilling activity.

World Chase Tag experience — Participation in this high-stakes competition offered insights into mental strategy, teamwork, and navigating pressure in competitive environments.

Role of PK Move and Urban Evolution — Frank describes involvement in specialized parkour programs for seniors and general community classes, emphasizing inclusivity and adaptability.

Value of travel and exploration — Travel and working in different parkour communities broadened Frank’s coaching skills and deepened his appreciation for diverse training environments.

The evolution of competition in parkour — Frank’s views on parkour competitions evolved, recognizing their value in fostering personal growth, collaboration, and community bonding.

Resources

PK Move — A parkour organization focused on movement education for seniors and underserved communities.

Urban Evolution — A gym in Alexandria, Virginia, offering parkour and movement classes for all ages.

World Chase Tag — An international competitive tag organization that blends parkour with high-speed evasion challenges.

Phoenix Freerunning Academy — A Michigan-based parkour gym with a strong sense of community and long-standing instructors.

Movement United — A gym in Michigan where the guest expanded his coaching experience.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Rosy Noguchi: Coaching, gender, and travel

June 12, 2019

Rosy Noguchi: Coaching, gender, and travel

What factors contribute to the longevity and success of community-driven parkour programs?

Rosy Noguchi discusses her involvement in PK Move, coaching, and why she is passionate about what they are doing. She shares her thoughts on the DC Women’s community, and why it’s been successfully running for 6+ years. Rosy reflects on the benefits of traveling for parkour, and closes out with her experiences with gender and intergenerational training in parkour.

I just thought it was cool, man. You’re only as old as you act and nobody was acting that old.
~ Rosy Noguchi (22:30)

The conversation explores the journey of Rosy Noguchi, a coach and board member at PK Move, and how her initial exposure to parkour through her mother led to a leadership role in the community. She recounts the origins of PK Move, a nonprofit aimed at making parkour accessible to diverse groups, and the progression from casual participant to co-founder. Rosy highlights the importance of inclusivity and the intergenerational nature of parkour, drawing connections between her experience training with both teenagers and older adults.

Rosy also discusses her involvement in the DC Women’s community and the structured nature of the monthly jams that have contributed to their sustained success. She emphasizes the role of leadership, mentorship, and collaboration in maintaining engagement and fostering growth. Additionally, Rosy reflects on the PK Silver program, which tailors parkour training for older adults, and shares personal insights on how her mother’s perspective on aging influences her coaching philosophy.

Takeaways

PK Move’s origin — How the organization evolved from an idea into a nonprofit driven by community needs.

Intergenerational training — The benefits of mixing age groups in parkour, fostering inclusive learning environments.

Women’s jam structure — How structured parkour classes during women’s jams enhance retention and encourage participation.

Mentorship and leadership — The influence of dedicated leaders and volunteers in sustaining long-term community programs.

Inclusivity in parkour — The importance of creating spaces that cater to newcomers and returning practitioners alike.

PK Silver — Tailoring parkour for older adults, emphasizing adaptability and safety.

Barriers to participation — How cost, time, and novelty affect attendance at women’s parkour events.

Support from larger organizations — The role of APK in providing space and legitimacy to community-led initiatives.

Travel and parkour — How traveling to jams strengthens community bonds and encourages personal growth.

Aging and representation — Addressing stereotypes about aging and promoting activity through inclusive parkour programs.

Resources

PK Move — The nonprofit organization co-founded by Rosy Noguchi to make parkour accessible to all.

APK (American Parkour) — A parkour organization that supports the DC Women’s community by providing gym space and infrastructure.

Urban Evolution — The parkour gym where Rosy began her training and encountered intergenerational parkour classes.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Victor Crittenden: Community, viewpoints, and statistics

June 5, 2019

Victor Crittenden: Community, viewpoints, and statistics

What makes the DC metro Parkour community unique, and how does it integrate diverse philosophies and populations to sustain and grow the practice of Parkour?

Victor Crittenden digs into the DC Metro Parkour community, explaining what it is, who is involved, and why it is unique. He discusses the various definitions, ethos, and approaches to parkour, and how each shows an important piece of the parkour puzzle. Vic shares his thoughts around the governance of parkour, and finishes with the importance of collecting and analyzing data and statistics about parkour to help promote its future and growth.

It’s important to distinguish between public and private spaces for the future of Parkour.
~ Victor Crittenden (41:04)

The conversation explores the structure and ethos of the DC Metro Parkour community, highlighting its diversity and the collaborative effort to unify various Parkour groups across Maryland, Virginia, and DC. Key components include established gyms like Urban Evolution and American Parkour, university groups at George Mason and College Park, and nonprofit organizations such as PK Move, which focuses on adaptive Parkour for underserved populations. Victor outlines the geographic and organizational complexities, emphasizing the role of jams and meetups in sustaining the community.

The discussion shifts to examining different Parkour philosophies in the area. Some gyms emphasize structured training and family engagement, while others focus on purist, outdoor approaches aligned with altruism and self-reclamation. The value of public engagement and forming connections with city officials emerges as a theme for promoting Parkour. Broader initiatives, such as the formation of USPK (United States Parkour Association) and youth leagues, aim to create a sustainable framework for Parkour development at a national level.

Takeaways

Bridging communities — The DC metro Parkour community thrives by unifying various city and university groups, preventing fragmentation.

Adaptive Parkour — PK Move pioneers adaptive Parkour, ensuring accessibility for elderly populations, cancer survivors, and individuals with disabilities.

Diversity in practice — Different Parkour groups in the region emphasize contrasting approaches, from structured gym environments to purist outdoor practices.

Public engagement — Building relationships with city officials and participating in community projects fosters acceptance and growth of Parkour communities.

Sustaining growth — Regular jams and meetups play a crucial role in maintaining the Parkour community by keeping people engaged and connected.

Governance and unity — National efforts like USP K aim to consolidate Parkour communities under a collective association to represent the U.S. globally.

Youth development — Projects like the Youth Parkour League (YPL) work to introduce structured competition circuits for younger populations.

Data and future growth — Initiatives to collect and analyze data on gyms, demographics, and growth rates aim to inform and attract investors.

Resources

PK Move — Nonprofit organization promoting adaptive Parkour for special populations, including seniors and cancer survivors.

American Parkour (APK) — A leading Parkour gym and community in DC promoting education and outreach.

Urban Evolution — Parkour gym offering structured programs and classes in Northern Virginia.

United States Parkour Association (USP K) — A collective organization aiming to unify Parkour communities across the U.S.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Weena Pauly-Tarr: Therapy, motherhood, and impulse

May 29, 2019

Weena Pauly-Tarr: Therapy, motherhood, and impulse

What experiences and practices shape the transition from structured movement disciplines to embodied, intuitive forms of movement and healing?

Weena Pauly-Tarr shares her history of dance, her brief encounter with parkour, and how those experiences have led to where she is now. She unpacks her work with somatic therapy, and the profound changes motherhood has brought to her life and practice. Weena reflects on her current interests in embodiment and impulse, and discusses her search for what is next.

The only thing I’ve ever wanted in my life—clearly and said out loud—was to be a mom. not to be a dancer, or not to move to New York… none of that was the thing. It was to be a mom. […] And so when I became pregnant, it was like the biggest gift I’ve ever been given. It was like getting the one thing you’ve always wanted, your whole life. It’s terrifying. Because what if it gets taken away, all that starts to come up. So I think what happened is, I had to grapple with receiving the thing I’ve always wanted.
~ Weena Pauly-Tarr (30:31)

The conversation covers how personal experiences with dance, Parkour, and somatic therapy intersect in a lifelong exploration of movement and healing. Weena’s dance background, including work with impactful movement styles like Streb’s Pop Action, shaped her understanding of strength, fear, and embodiment. Parkour later emerged as a natural extension of this interest, allowing for further exploration of dynamic movement in unconventional settings.

Motherhood significantly shifted her perspective, introducing new layers of vulnerability and embodiment. This experience influenced her shift from performance-based movement to therapeutic and somatic practices. She discusses her evolving approach to working with clients, focusing on impulse, somatic healing, and authentic movement. Her exploration of trauma through somatic experiencing highlighted the connections between past injuries and subconscious movement patterns.

Takeaways

Impact and strength — Early dance experiences emphasized the importance of using strength and physicality in movement.

Embodiment through trauma — Somatic experiences can reveal how unresolved trauma manifests in physical patterns.

Motherhood’s transformation — Motherhood shifted priorities and expanded the practice of vulnerability and authenticity.

Parkour as extension — Parkour became a natural extension of visceral, impact-based dance forms.

Healing through movement — Movement serves as a method for personal and emotional healing.

Impulse as guidance — Allowing movement to arise from impulse promotes deeper embodiment and awareness.

Reframing fear — Both Parkour and somatic practices teach reframing fear and failure as growth.

Resources

Weena Pauly-Tarr @weenapaulytarr

Elizabeth Streb’s TED Talk — Discusses Pop Action and the concepts of impact-based movement.

Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy — A form of somatic healing that bridges bodywork and talk therapy.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Michael ‘Frosti Fresh’ Zernow: Competition, collaboration, and passion

May 22, 2019

Michael ‘Frosti Fresh’ Zernow: Competition, collaboration, and passion

What role does competition play in shaping the growth and community of Parkour?

Michael ‘Frosti Fresh’ Zernow discusses his career, passion for community building, and his experiences with the Red Bull Art of Motion competition. He shares his views on competition in general, his unique perspective on how parkour has grown, and the potential it has as it continues to grow. Frosti explains his involvement in the United States Parkour association, his love of collaboration, and how he’s found and followed his passions throughout his journey.

I think competitions can help create an understandable way for the outside world to connect with this amazing community that we’re building and if we can be involved in it in a way where our voices are heard and where our presence is known then we can build something really beautiful.
~ Michael Zernow (38:23)

The conversation explores the evolving relationship between Parkour and competition, focusing on how competitions, such as Red Bull’s Art of Motion, have shaped the sport. The discussion reveals how Frosti navigates being an athlete, host, and entrepreneur, balancing personal growth with the desire to grow the Parkour community. His experiences shed light on the importance of community building and outreach, as well as the role of organizations like the United States Parkour Association (USPK).

Frosti reflects on his career trajectory, highlighting how competitions and collaborations have allowed him to stay involved in the Parkour scene beyond just being a performer. The conversation touches on the philosophical divide within Parkour about whether competition enhances or detracts from the sport’s core values. Frosti’s perspective emphasizes the need for competition to inspire and provide opportunities for young athletes, while maintaining respect for those who choose to pursue non-competitive avenues.

Takeaways

Community building — Parkour thrives on creating relationships, and early jams were crucial in connecting athletes across regions.

Role of competition — Competitions, like Red Bull Art of Motion, provide growth opportunities for athletes but also provoke debate within the Parkour community.

Athlete transition — Many professional Parkour athletes transition into coaching, entrepreneurship, and event hosting as their careers evolve.

Corporate involvement — Red Bull’s approach to Parkour is viewed positively by some for its investment and willingness to collaborate with athletes, while others question corporate influence on the sport.

Collaboration — Frosti highlights the value of working with artists, musicians, and other athletes to expand the reach and creative potential of Parkour.

Inspiration — Young athletes like Nate Weston use competition as motivation to refine and expand their skillsets.

USPK — The formation of the United States Parkour Association aims to unify and provide a collective voice for Parkour practitioners in the U.S.

Growth of Tempest — Tempest Freerunning’s expansion of gyms and outreach programs reflects the increasing mainstream acceptance of Parkour.

Philosophy of movement — Frosti’s journey underscores the personal growth and self-expression that emerge through Parkour, regardless of competition.

Resources

Tempest Freerunning — Parkour and Freerunning gym co-founded by Frosti Fresh, promoting movement and training across multiple locations.

Red Bull Art of Motion — International Parkour competition showcasing top athletes and fostering community engagement.

United States Parkour Association (USPK) — Organization supporting Parkour athletes and practitioners in the U.S. through events, certifications, and community building.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Teresa Vazquez-Dodero: Motherhood, stereotypes, and risk

May 15, 2019

Teresa Vazquez-Dodero: Motherhood, stereotypes, and risk

What impact does practicing Parkour have on personal transformation and navigating the challenges of motherhood?

Teresa Vazquez-Dodero describes the changes and sacrifices of motherhood, both in body and mind. She explains her initial experiences with parkour, how the community drew her in, and her views on defying stereotypes in parkour. Teresa discusses her unique perspective of risk, her studies in multiculturalism, and finishes by sharing the benefits of parkour for all ages.

I would describe this relationship as the most liberating body— or relationship with my body and relationship with my environment that I’ve ever had in any sports situation.
~ Teresa Vazquez-Dodero (1:14)

The conversation explores the transformative effect Parkour has on physical and mental well-being, particularly through the lens of motherhood. It highlights the dramatic changes and sacrifices involved in raising twins and the physical challenges that accompany it. Through Parkour, Teresa discovers a liberating relationship with her body, which contrasts starkly with her previous struggles after pregnancy. She emphasizes how Parkour reconnects her with movement, allowing her to reclaim aspects of herself that were sidelined during motherhood.

Another focus is on breaking societal norms and defying stereotypes, particularly those surrounding age, gender, and motherhood. Teresa reflects on her initial fears of not fitting into the Parkour community but ultimately finds acceptance and encouragement. Her insights extend to broader topics such as risk perception, personal responsibility in maintaining physical health, and the importance of continuous movement. She draws parallels between movement, personal growth, and larger societal observations derived from her academic background in multiculturalism and race studies.

Takeaways

Parkour and self-liberation — Parkour provides a liberating relationship with the body and environment, fostering freedom beyond structured gym environments.

Motherhood and physical transformation — Pregnancy, particularly with twins, significantly alters the body and challenges personal movement, leading to a long recovery process.

Reclaiming identity — Parkour helps reclaim aspects of personal identity that are sidelined during the demands of motherhood.

Risk and societal perceptions — Risk in Parkour is often perceived differently from within the practice, where the emphasis is on maintaining health and preventing long-term issues.

Age and movement — Parkour offers a pathway to sustaining movement and health as individuals age, challenging norms that equate aging with physical decline.

Community and inclusivity — The Parkour community welcomes diverse participants, valuing different perspectives and experiences regardless of age or background.

Resilience through adversity — Parkour serves as a metaphor for overcoming life’s challenges and rebuilding physical and mental strength post-adversity.

Cultural insights and race studies — Teresa draws connections between movement practices and her academic studies, highlighting broader societal patterns and introspective analysis.

Resources

Parkour Generations — A resource for Parkour classes and training, referenced as the community that supported Teresa’s Parkour journey.

Smith College — Teresa’s alma mater, where she studied literature, multiculturalism, and race studies.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)