MovNat 12 Principles

Our Principles

We live and train by principles that help us get the most out of our Natural Movement® practice.
Note: Click the links to learn more about each principle.

Practical

Yes, it is actually useful. If a movement isn’t helpful in everyday life, we are not very interested in it. From carrying the groceries to fleeing from danger, our movements are based on real life needs.

Adaptable

Movement depends on context. This is essential. All of our movement aptitudes are based on interaction with specific and ever changing environments and situations. Learning to adapt is what MovNat is all about.

Efficient

We practice efficiency in all things. The movement aptitudes practiced are performed skillfully (i.e., with efficient technique), greater performance, higher energy conservation, and increased safety.

Mindful

Movement comes from the inside out, and it stems from awareness of ourselves and our environment. Mindfulness is the gateway to efficient, adaptable movement through perception, concentration, and mental toughness.

Vital

The movements help keep us safe. They are useful in times of emergency.

Instinctual

Movement is instinctual. Technique is not. While nobody starts from scratch, we learn technique so we can turn instinct into skilled ability.

Cooperative

We are naturally social creatures. We teach in a group environment based on support. Our movement principles can help a group accomplish what no individual is capable of. Practice can be done alone or with others – but the intent is social.

Environmental

The movement aptitudes are regularly practiced outdoors in order to maximize health benefits and increase well-being and connection with nature.

Evolutionary

The way we move has not changed. Our health is tied to moving, as it always has been for the human species.

Unspecialized

The movement aptitudes are practiced in order to acquire and maintain a near equalized, well-rounded skill set and conditioning level.

Universal

Movement is for everyone. It belongs to every human being regardless of origin, gender, age, social class, or belief system.

Progressive

Movement is progressive. And the best progress is made when your training is neither too easy nor too hard, but adequately challenges both your skill level (i.e. competence) and conditioning (i.e. capacity).