Human movement is a dynamic process requiring an integrated, adaptive interplay between stability and mobility. For lack of a more precise term, we can call this process “dynamic stability”. Yet, when we think about the function of the “core” we somehow tend to completely forget about the dynamic aspect of dynamic stability. But as with all other aspects of movement, core stability - and by extension spinal stability - is not a static bracing strategy but a dynamic process. A constant interplay between stability and mobility.
Read MoreOn the Physiology and Philosophy of Movement
The bodies and brains of animals - including humans - evolved in a complex natural environment, and the ability to effectively meet the complexities of that environment is directly linked to survival. You have to be constantly moving, constantly learning, constantly adapting. It is not surprising then, that good health outcomes are tightly entwined with behaviours that would have been beneficial in these natural environments. It is exactly why exercise and physical activity is so good for developing both physical and cognitive resilience.
Read MoreThe concept that physical activity should be a core lifestyle element for healthy and functional ageing is very well supported. Aerobic capacity and muscular strength are key indicators of health and functionality in older age. But of course, functionality doesn’t just start from the neck down, and maintaining brain health is just as essential as maintaining the health of the rest of the body.
Read MoreBreathing, as a subject, tends to be either largely ignored or completely dogmatised. There are dozens of different schools of thought and many would-be experts teaching and preaching all things breath. My position on the topic is fairly much my position on all things physiological: It’s complex, and it’s context dependent. That said, something that is complex from a physiological systems perspective, doesn’t necessarily require a complicated and convoluted approach in practice. Let’s start by looking at the essentials of diaphragmatic breathing.
Read MorePerimenopause and Menopause heralds a number of physical changes which have significant implications for a woman’s health and functional fitness. All women should have a solid understanding of their physiology, from the menstrual cycle to menopause, and how to best structure exercise, nutrition and recovery techniques to make sure they get the best out of the effort they put in to optimise health and wellbeing. Here I want to focus particularly on the role of strength training for women, particularly older women.
Read MoreExploring the body in movement from a systems theory perspective...
There seems to be a broad consensus that we should treat the body as a whole system, because “everything’s connected”. Everything may very well be connected, but so what? How is it connected? What are the implications of this? What does it actually look like in practice?
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