205: Dismantling Movement Dogmas (w/Laurel Beversdorf & Sarah Court)
May 9, 2024
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Laurel Beversdorf and Sarah Court discuss movement dogmas, debunking health claims, and fallen gurus in the fitness industry. They emphasize science-based content, challenging alignment dogmas, and the dangers of conspiracism. The conversation dives into back pain management controversies, the impact of social media on pain perception, and the nuances of movement science and pain management. They also explore gender stereotypes in yoga marketing, societal beauty norms, and evolving beliefs around alignment in yoga practice.
Movement Logic challenges movement dogmas with science-based content.
Critique of Dr. Stuart McGill's biomechanical approach to back pain.
Addressing gendered stereotypes in fitness marketing and promoting strength training for women.
Deep dives
Innovative Posture Tip with Tongue Placement
One interesting suggestion from the podcast episode revolves around a unique posture technique involving tongue placement. The speaker highlighted the idea of pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth to keep the neck in a safe position. This technique was exemplified in a personal experience where the individual could easily press their tongue to the roof of their mouth regardless of neck position. It introduced a distinctive perspective on maintaining neck posture through a simple tongue placement approach.
Exploring Butcher Box's Culinary Offerings
The podcast delved into the culinary experiences with an ingredient shipment service, Butcher Box. A particular dish, Aloo Chicken, was highlighted as a successful creation from a Butcher Box shipment. The hosts discussed how receiving the ingredient shipments ignited creativity in their cooking endeavors. Additionally, they emphasized the diverse range of high-quality cuts available through Butcher Box, coupled with exclusive member deals and recipe offerings catering to varied culinary preferences.
Discussion on Movement Logic and Educational Approach
The episode introduced Movement Logic, a podcast hosted by Sarah Court and Laurel Beversdorf, focusing on evidence-based movement content. The podcast aims to dispel movement dogmas and foster a perspective grounded in scientific logic and humility. The hosts shared their mission of bridging physical therapy concepts with daily activities, leading to the evolution of their content into a comprehensive bone density course, 'Lift for Longevity.' This transition highlighted their commitment to addressing gaps in strength training for women and promoting sustainable health practices.
Critique of Dr. Stuart McGill's Biomechanical Claims
The episode critically examined Dr. Stuart McGill's biomechanical approach to back pain, rehab, and performance. By scrutinizing McGill's unscientific assertions and faith healer-esque teaching style, the podcast dissected his views on non-specific low back pain and diagnostic methodologies. The hosts highlighted discrepancies in McGill's denial of non-specific low back pain, emphasizing the clinical complexities and diverse factors contributing to pain perception. Additionally, the discussion extended to McGill's guru-like persona, his divisive interpretation of movement modalities, and implications of his rigid biomechanical stance on pain management.
Effects of Gendered Stereotypes on Fitness Marketing
Fitness marketing often perpetuates gendered stereotypes by promoting the ideal of being 'long and lean,' discouraging women from strength training for fear of becoming 'bulky.' This marketing strategy links specific exercise types to weight loss and targeting particular body areas. The emphasis on being 'long and lean' contributes to unrealistic body ideals, negatively impacting women's self-esteem and health. Despite research supporting the benefits of strength training for women's health, the cultural emphasis remains on achieving an unattainable physique.
The Role and Impact of Alignment Dogmas in Yoga
Alignment dogmas in yoga have been a topic of discussion, challenging the notion of a 'right' or 'wrong' way to align. The podcast delves into the neutral nature of alignment as a tool, emphasizing its value in promoting individuality and diverse body expressions. By shifting the focus from rigid alignment rules to personalized approaches based on individuals' unique needs and abilities, practitioners can benefit from a more inclusive and empowering yoga practice, moving away from restrictive and potentially harmful alignment dogmas.
We have a real treat today for listeners who love all forms of movement, especially yoga and strength training.
Derek and Julian talk to Movement Logic hosts, Laurel Beversdorf and Sarah Court, who navigate the curvilinear path of creating irreverent yet high quality science-based movement content that sets teachers and students free from dogma and fear-mongering. Our two podcasts intersect by looking into fallen gurus, pseudoscience health claims, dodgy alignment dogmas, and cults of personality susceptible to the dangers of conspiracism. And this week we’re diving into a recent Movement Logic episode on back pain specialist, Stuart McGill.
Yet, as this conversation shows, all hope is not lost, and all physical culture is not a pipeline into body fascism, or worse—multi-level marketing. There are still intelligent and grounded educators who share the love of movement, infused with the logic and humility of science.
Laurel Beversdorf is an international yoga educator, a certified kettlebell specialist, and a strength coach. Sarah Court is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, movement mentor, and yoga teacher trainer.
