

The MOVEMENT Movement
Steven Sashen
Welcome to The MOVEMENT Movement -- the podcast for people who want the TRUTH about having a healthy, happy, strong body.
We'll be breaking through the mythology, confusion and sometimes outright lies about what it takes to walk, run, hike, do yoga, paddle board, lift... or whatever you do. I'm here to help you do it better and have more fun.
It's called The MOVEMENT Movement because We're creating a movement. Making natural movement to the obvious choice the way natural FOOD is currently.
We'll be breaking through the mythology, confusion and sometimes outright lies about what it takes to walk, run, hike, do yoga, paddle board, lift... or whatever you do. I'm here to help you do it better and have more fun.
It's called The MOVEMENT Movement because We're creating a movement. Making natural movement to the obvious choice the way natural FOOD is currently.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 6, 2024 • 1h 2min
Episode 215: Lifting for Fitness? Don’t Do It!
Lifting for Fitness? Don’t Do It! – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 215 with Mitchell Van Beek Mitchell Van Beek is the founder of the MovePainFree (LLC) Training System, specializing in Movement-Based Training to help people start or return to exercising without pain. After experiencing debilitating back pain for 12 years, Mitchell now focuses on pain relief through Movement Behavior Therapy, which involves changing how people walk and run to improve how they feel. Originally from rural Iowa, Mitchell earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from Northwestern College in Orange City, IA. Working remotely, he travels the world to help others be as active as possible by transitioning to Movement-Based Training. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Mitchell Van Beek about how lifting shouldn’t be part of your fitness routine. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How there is a difference between movement patterns and lifting patterns for optimal body function. - Why focusing on improving movement patterns can help alleviate pain. - How you should incorporate developmental training and rockers to your routine to enhance your body’s overall movement efficiency. - Why it’s important to pay attention to foot positioning, knee alignment, and hip flexion in squat patterns. - How you should focus on foot movement pattern with resistance to optimize strength. Connect with Mitchell: Guest Contact Info X@movement_mitch Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Feb 28, 2024 • 41min
Episode 214: Discover (and Join) the Slow AF Run Club
Discover (and Join) the Slow AF Run Club – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 214 with Martinus Evans Slow AF founder Martinus Evans’ personal journey began ten years ago, when his doctor called him fat and told him he needed to start walking to “lose weight or die.” Faced with the shame and stigma many people in larger bodies face, Martinus made the choice to stand up for himself. “Screw walking,” he said. “I’ll run a marathon.” He left the doctor’s office and bought running shoes that same day. Ten years later, Martinus has been an adidas spokesperson, a model on the cover of Runner’s World, and a Boston Marathon finisher. Martinus has ran over 100 races including 8 marathons. Now he’s set his sights on changing the perception of what a runner is supposed to look like. He founded The Slow AF Run Club to be the world’s largest inclusive online community for back-of-the-pack runners. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Martinus Evans about the importance of inclusivity in the running community. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How it’s important for the running community to support slower runners and challenge traditional ideas of what a runner should look like. - How high protein, high-fat diets don’t automatically enhance athletic performance. - Why people should seek individualized approaches to training and nutrition. - How there is a lack of diversity in the running industry and marketing should be more inclusive of all body types. - How it’s vital to embrace your body type and run without pressuring yourself to change it. Connect with Martinus: Guest Contact Info Instagram@runslowaf Facebookfacebook.com/RunSlowAF Links Mentioned:slowafrunclub.com Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Feb 21, 2024 • 46min
Episode 213: Can Barefoot Shoes Handle Pickleball?
Can Barefoot Shoes Handle Pickleball? – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 213 with Piers Kwan In 2010, Piers Kwan became a certified hardstyle kettlebell instructor under Pavel Tsatsouline. He started with RKC and now represents StrongFirst. He learns and teaches with Tim Anderson and the Original Strength team. Piers currently enjoys pickleball, delving excessively deeply into random interests, and hanging out with his lovely wife and three fantastic daughters. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Piers Kwan about how barefoot shoes can handle pickleball and other court sports. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How Original Strength focuses on restoring natural movement patterns to help individuals move as they were designed to. - How people can transition from sedentary and physically restricted states to vibrant and capable individuals. - How Original Strength serves as the foundational framework, enabling individuals to pursue various physical activities without hindrance. - Why inexperience sports participants, especially those lacking stability and a connection to the ground, are prone to injury. - why wearing minimalist footwear can improve foot strength, reduce running injuries, and provide an active recovery. Connect with Piers: Guest Contact Info Instagram@qldkettlebells @pierskwan Facebookfacebook.com/QldKettleballs Links Mentioned:qldkettlebells.com.au Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Feb 14, 2024 • 48min
Episode 212: Are Super Shoes REALLY Super?
Are Super Shoes REALLY Super? – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 212 with Jay Dicharry Originally from New Orleans LA, Jay completed the Master of Physical Therapy degree at Louisiana State University Medical Center and is a Board- Certified Sports Clinical Specialist. Jay built his international reputation as an expert in biomechanical analysis as Director of the SPEED Clinic at the University of Virginia. Through this innovative venture, Jay was able to blend the fields of clinical practice and engineering to better understand and eliminate the cause of overuse injuries in endurance athletes. His unique approach goes outside the traditional model of therapy and aims to correct imbalances before they affect your performance. Jay literally wrote the book on running gait assessments: he is author of “Running Rewired” + “Anatomy for Runners“, writes columns for numerous magazines, and has published over 35 professional journal articles and book chapters. Jay has had an active research career, teaches nationally, and consults for numerous footwear companies, the US Air Force and USA Track and Field. His ongoing research focus on footwear and the causative factors driving overuse injury continues to provide him cutting edge knowledge to educate and provide patients with an unmatched level of innovation and success. Having taught in the Sports Medicine program at UVA and Oregon State University-Cascades, he brings a strong bias towards patient education, and continues to teach nationally to elevate the standard of care for Therapists, Physicians, and Coaches working with endurance athletes. In addition to his clinical distinction, Jay is a certified coach through both the United States Track and Field Association and the United States Cycling Federation, and certified Golf Fitness Instructor through Titleist Performance Institute. He has a competitive history in swimming, triathlon, cycling, and running events on both the local and national level, and has coached athletes from local standouts to national medalists. He enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest with his family on knobbies, skis, boards, and soles. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Jay Dicharry about if super shoes are good for runners. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How super shoes may encourage overstriding and landing on the heel, which can lead to injuries. - Why people should look at other factors besides super shoes that contribute to their perceived improved performance. - How shoe technology is not a substitute for proper training and form. - Why people tend to chase trends instead of relying on common sense when it comes to footwear. - How some athetes experience a decline in performance when they switch to high-stack cushioned shoes because it alters their natural timing and stiffness. Connect with Jay: Guest Contact Info Instagram@mobo.board Links Mentioned:moboboard.com Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Feb 7, 2024 • 10min
Episode 211: RANTING About Running Research
Increased running injury rates despite advancements in footwear; 1960s and 70s runners had fewer injuries; transitioning to barefoot running takes time; impact of footwear on gait; proper form feels good; flaws in a study comparing barefoot running to cushioning shoes.

Jan 31, 2024 • 56min
Episode 210: Kettlebells: EVERYTHING You Need to Know
Kettlebells: EVERYTHING You Need to Know – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 210 with Steven Sashen Brett Jones is StrongFirst’s Director of Education and Master SFG. He is also a Certified Athletic Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Specialist based in Pittsburgh, PA. Mr. Jones holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine from High Point University, a Master of Science in Rehabilitative Sciences from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). With over twenty years of experience, Brett has been sought out to consult with professional teams and athletes, as well as present throughout the United States and internationally. As an athletic trainer who has transitioned into the fitness industry, Brett has taught kettlebell techniques and principles since 2003. He has taught for Functional Movement Systems (FMS) since 2006, and has created multiple DVDs and manuals with world-renowned physical therapist Gray Cook, including the widely-praised “Secrets of…” series. Brett continues to evolve his approach to training and teaching, and is passionate about improving the quality of education for the fitness industry. He is available for consultations and distance coaching by e-mailing him at brett.jones@strongfirst.com Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Brett Jones about everything you need to know about kettlebells. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How kettlebells are like cannonballs with handles, providing a unique way to train. - Why kettlebell training helps with force absorption and redirection, which benefits other activities. - How efficient alignment is more important than brute strength in kettlebell training. - Why different thumb positions affect kettlebell gripping and alignment. - How the kettlebell shouldn’t hit your forearm when you are performing a snatch. Connect with Brett: Guest Contact Infobrett.jones@strongfirst.com Links Mentioned:strongfirst.com Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Jan 24, 2024 • 49min
Episode 209: Survivor Season 45, Tells All…
Survivor Season 45, Tells All… – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 209 with Austin Li Coon Austin Li Coon is a current MBA student at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Austin just finished competing on the most recent season of Survivor, where he finished in 2nd place. And of course, he wore Xero Shoes for the entire adventure. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Austin Li Coon about competing on season 45 of Survivor. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - What it was like for Austin to apply to be on the show Survivor. - How contestants on the show struggled with basic tasks and mental acuity due to extreme hunger. - Why Austin used Xero Shoes while getting ready for the show and for the entirety of the season. - How dealing with comments on social media can be challenging when you’re on reality tv. - How wearing Xero Shoes played a significant role in his success on survivor. Connect with Austin: Guest Contact Info Twitter@austinlicoon Instagram@austinlicoon Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Jan 17, 2024 • 60min
Episode 208: Yoga is NOT Stretching
Yoga is NOT Stretching – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 208 with Yogi Aaron Yogi Aaron is a trailblazing yoga teacher who is leading a global rebellion against the harmful practice of stretching. He pioneered the groundbreaking approach to yoga that shows people how to live pain-free by activating muscles through Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™ (AYAMA). In a world where conventional stretching and flexibility practices are the prescribed norm for pain, Yogi Aaron's unorthodox method provides a safer and more effective permanent solution — and it isn’t being taught by anyone else! Whether at his scenic Blue Osa Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica or through his online AYAMA™ Certification Program and The Yogi Club, Yogi Aaron is dedicated to teaching students worldwide to break free from pain and unlock their full potential and life purpose. What sets him apart is his wisdom, infectious humor, adventurous spirit, and personal healing journey, which distinguish him as a beloved leader in the yoga community. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Yogi Aaron about how yoga isn’t stretching. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How the Muscle Activation Technique is a way to address muscle-related problems. - How yoga postures have evolved over time, and their original purpose may differ fro today’s practice. - Why there is a misconception that yoga postures are primarily preparing the body for meditation. - Why mastering comfort and stability in yoga postures can lead to a deeper understanding of life and decision-making. - How different yoga postures can impact the nervous system and energy levels. Connect with Yogi Aaron: Guest Contact Info Links Mentioned:theyogi.club/movement Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Jan 10, 2024 • 1h 47min
Episode 207: How Should You Walk Barefoot?
How Should You Walk Barefoot? – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 207 with Barry Weinstein Barry Weinstein is the Head Coach at FootCamp which is the fastest growing barefoot lifestyle brand. FootCamp offers free barefooting classes in Central Park, New York, supplies barefoot shoes, toe socks, toe spacers, and rock mats to strengthen our customers feet and build a robust orthopedic system to live a pain free life. Barry’s emphasis on forefoot walking as a means of reducing orthopedic injury makes him unique in his coaching style. He uses a mix of history, anthropology, and anatomy to teach students barefooting technique. Barry is a barefoot runner, a decorated track and field thrower, an Olympic style weightlifter, a former employee of the New York Road Runners and NYC Marathon finisher. Barry was also on the prestigious CRCA Junior Development road cycling team, competing in multiple stage races including the Green Mountain Stage Race and competed in the Tour of the Battenkill AKA “the hell of the north”, and raced in the collegiate circuit in the Washington D.C. area. Barry has been previously featured in publications such as Scientific American, Fox News, BBC World News, Crain’s New York Business, Forbes and many others. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Barry Weinstein about the correct way to walk barefoot. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How the Achilles tendon absorbs and recycles impact when running barefoot. - Why there are high rates of back and foot injuries associated with modern running shoes. - How the only way to change minds is to build rapport and have non-confrontational conversations with people. - Why some people experience orthopedic problems similar to those who overuse hell strike problems even when they don’t run. - How overstriding or reaching out with the foot in front is not ideal for walking or running. Connect with Barry: Guest Contact Info Links Mentioned:classpass.com/studios/footcamp-new-york Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes

Jan 3, 2024 • 59min
Episode 206: Footwear Barefoot Running Optimal Diet Conversation
Footwear Barefoot Running Optimal Diet Conversation – The MOVEMENT Movement with Steven Sashen Episode 206 with Dr. Mark Cucuzzella Dr. Mark Cucuzzella is a Professor at West Virginia University School of Medicine. As a US Air Force Reservist he designs programs to promote healthier and better running with the US Air Force Efficient Running Project. Mark has presented running workshops on over 50 military bases. You can view modules on his Efficient Running website. He has been a national-level Masters runner, having competed for over 35 years with more than 100 marathon and ultra-marathon finishes. Mark is a two time winner of the Air Force Marathon and has a marathon PR of 2:24. As well as being the race director of Freedom’s Run race series in West Virginia, Mark is director of the Natural Running Center, an education portal designed to teach healthier running. He is also the owner of Two Rivers Treads – A Center for Natural Running and Walking in his hometown of Shepherdstown, WV. Mark’s innovative work and story has been featured in the New York Times, NPR, Outside Magazine, Running Times, Runners World, Air Force Times, the Washington Post, JAMA, and other medical and media outlets. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Dr. Mark Cucuzzella about the importance of using the right barefoot shoes and eating the right diet. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How barefoot running provides many benefits including better running form. - Why you should transition gradually to minimalist shoes. - How minimalist footwear helps strengthen your feet over time. - Why it’s difficult to find funding to do studies on minimalist footwear. - How proper running form involves posture, arm position, and rhythm. Connect with Mark: Guest Contact Info Facebookfacebook.com/mark.cucuzzella LinkedIn Linkedin.com/in/mark-cucuzzella-25042413 Links Mentioned:drmarksdesk.com Connect with Steven: Website Xeroshoes.com Jointhemovementmovement.com Twitter@XeroShoes Instagram@xeroshoes Facebookfacebook.com/xeroshoes