Interviews with Six Movement Masters On Natural Movement Fitness (Part 4)
by John Sifferman
Erwan Le Corre has been called the world’s fittest man, and many have likened him to a modern-day Tarzan. Since founding the MovNat Natural Movement Fitness System, he’s taught thousands of people how to move naturally in order to become strong, healthy, happy and free. Below, you’ll hear from some of Erwan’s top students who are now ambassadors for MovNat all over the world.
Note: These are all MovNat Level III Trainers: the highest designation in the MovNat coaching system, and/or Team Instructors: those who lead our certification events.
We asked these movement masters about how MovNat has rocked their world, what they think people should know about natural movement fitness, and also for some practical tips for those who are new to MovNat. They shared a wealth of good advice and timeless wisdom for the aspiring fitness enthusiast and natural mover.
What’s extraordinary about these people is that they all come from very different backgrounds, and yet, have each found a common bond with MovNat. If you pay attention to some of the common themes in their responses below, you’ll be well on your way to mastering your own movement potential.
Part 1 by Stefano Tripney: Six Movement Masters On Natural Movement Fitness
Part 2 by Eric Brown: A Former Navy SEAL on “Real World Fitness”
Part 3 by Jeff Turner: “25 Years in Fitness…Then I Found MovNat”
Part 4 by Jolene Cook: “I am doing things I never thought I could do” (at age 44)
Part 5: Coming soon!
Jolene Cook
(Oregon, USA)
1) What is your background and what inspired you to pursue and train with MovNat? Why have you stuck with it? How is your life and training different now? How is it better?
I am an elite athlete. I was drawn to MovNat because I wanted to become more efficient at obstacle course racing. I am 44 now, but was also a gymnast growing up, so always loved moving. However, I found so much more than I expected with MovNat. It set me on a journey – a journey not just about athletics, but that helped me come back to my roots and has helped me pursue an overall lifestyle change. I am no longer about grinding things out, but of getting outside, enjoying my freedom in nature and in my body, and about continuing to move as I age. This is why I have stuck with it. I am doing things I never thought I could do-like running in barefoot shoes. I see my feet changing, which is another reason I have stuck with it. I have always had issues with my feet. They are healthier today than they ever have been. I no longer feel destined to have foot surgeries or to live with foot pain. So many benefits. And what I was seeking turned into so much more.
2) What is something that most people don’t understand about MovNat? What are they missing?
I think they don’t understand all the benefits, the community, the freedom. These are the things they are also missing. Most people are so wrapped up in the trivial things that I too was wrapped up in for so long…the grind, the looks, the performances, etc.
3) What advice would you give to someone who is new to MovNat? Any recommended habits, simple changes, or tips for beginners who want to get healthier, fitter, and more capable?
Keep exploring, keep learning, be creative and let your imagination open up. I look at the world totally different now. For example, I used to just see a tree or a wall, now everything is an opportunity to climb, to balance, to explore. Add little things into your life. It took me about 3 years to get to the point where I could use barefoot shoes. Everything is a process, so don’t get frustrated.
About Jolene: Jolene Cook (Level 3 MovNat Certified Trainer) is working as a child and family therapist and incorporates movement and nature into therapy sessions with clients in and around La Grande, Oregon. She uses MovNat on a daily basis in her own life and hopes to eventually work part-time as a therapist and part-time as a movement coach. She is a retired professional athlete, but continues to pursue new challenges.