MISSISSAUGA, Ontario — Amidst lockdowns and limitations, many people have been looking for ways to improve their health outside of mainstream gyms. Walking, running, and cycling have been on the rise these days. So too, has an unconventional perspective called, “movement”. Thanks to local Coach, Oskar Gut, who is leading a revolution in the community.

“Studying movement has brought so much positivity to my life – physically, cognitively, and emotionally – I want to spread the message to others. Especially now, when we really need it,” he says.

Oskar, who’s been coaching for over a decade, says he discovered movement – a perspective on training, physicality, and practice – six years ago, when he was searching for a meaningful approach to working out that offered something different than traditional methods. “It’s not about the amount of sweat you produce, or calories you burn,” he explains. “Movement is about self-mastery and developing a broad physical practice.”

Oskar achieves this through long sessions (90-120 minutes), practicing various mobility techniques to mobilize the body for health, longevity and function. An example could be juggling, which he says, “Has been shown to increase grey matter in the brain, as well, teach you coordination, eye movement, and sensitivity of touch.”

He also introduces people to handstand work to get them more comfortable upside down in an attempt to increase movement possibilities. “One of my students achieved his first 60-second handstand during the pandemic because he was able to train at home and outside. I’m really proud of him.” Oskar shares.

Certainly, a big reason more people are maintaining a mindful movement practice right now is that it can be done almost anywhere and requires little equipment. “I’m trying to be a positive source of health for people by providing guidance and making it as accessible as possible because it’s clear – proper exercise, nutrition and supplementation are beneficial to safeguarding your health against illness,” he says.

To gain some momentum with your own practice, which can lead to well-being, Oskar suggests making these moves at home or outdoors:

1. Squat: Squatting is a resting position in most of the world, and crucial for lower body joint health. Try squatting all the way to the ground, with your heels down, and spend a few minutes in that position.
2. Hang: Beneficial for spinal decompression, as well as hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder joint health and integrity. Try hanging daily, for 7 minutes (at one time, or broken up throughout the day), for 30 days.
3. Be a Beginner: Rather than only do what you know/you’re good at, switch things up. If you do a lot of weightlifting, try taking a dance or tai chi class. If you’re a yogi, do some strength training (with a coach to learn proper technique) and immerse yourself in that for a while.
4. Train the Brain: With fitness, the brain is often forgotten. Train it. As mentioned, juggling is great for this. So is learning a musical instrument, or drawing/painting. The key is developing a skill that challenges you cognitively.

Oskar believes people want to move better in all areas of their lives, but they often impose barriers on themselves, like age, time, or gender. He says, “Most people can do what I do, if not better, with hard work and a sound process. The saying within the movement culture community is ‘If you have a body you can have a movement practice’.”

In today’s world, as we’re flooded with uncertainty and screen time, exploring ways to optimize our physicality, like those Oskar suggests through daily mindful movement practice, is definitely one way to feel better, and grounded.

Even if it means we’re upside down for an hour or two.

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