Movers Mindset

What principles can we learn from integrating movement, play, and systems thinking to foster personal growth and collaborative learning?

Jesse Danger takes time out from teaching parkour to share thoughtful insights on topics such as systems thinking through game design, the role of novelty, and how to work with a group toward a single focus while still honoring the individual. Along the way we also discuss life lessons learned through playing chess.

"Nothing will ever be the same as it was. Things are constantly changing. So everything is novel all the time." ~ Jesse Danger (14:00)

The conversation centers on Jesse Danger’s journey from being a parkour practitioner to a facilitator and educator. Topics include his personal experiments with consistency in training, the philosophy behind his organization, and how business serves as a tool for sharing his vision. Jesse highlights the transformative power of systems thinking, particularly through game design, as a method for teaching life skills and movement principles.

Jesse and Craig also discuss the role of novelty in personal and group development, emphasizing how new experiences can level the playing field and foster deeper connections. The conversation touches on broader themes like balancing individual needs with group goals, overcoming the constraints of competition and authority, and cultivating an integrated, holistic approach to learning and living.

Takeaways

The transition from practitioner to facilitator — Jesse reflects on how his consistent personal training evolved into a broader leadership role in the parkour community.

The Movement Creative’s philosophy — A focus on creating a business that aligns with personal values rather than conventional success metrics.

Systems thinking through game design — Teaching movement and life skills through intentional, co-created games that adapt to participants' goals.

The importance of novelty — Novel experiences can equalize skill levels, spark creativity, and deepen interpersonal connections.

Balancing individual and group needs — Strategies for fostering collaboration without alienating individual autonomy.

Unpacking competition and authority — How overcoming personal challenges with competition and authority shaped Jesse's teaching philosophy.

The role of play in growth — Play as a tool for exploration, skill-building, and connection.

Life lessons from chess — The shift from finite to infinite games and their impact on personal growth and perspective.

The tribe's responsibility — Supporting individuals' unique needs while fostering collective growth.

Resilience, adaptability, and delusion — Key principles in Jesse’s personal and professional practice.

Resources

The Movement Creative — Jesse's organization focused on movement and education.

Quest to Learn — A school where Jesse first explored systems thinking through teaching parkour.

Institute of Play — An organization partnering with Quest to Learn to implement game-based learning strategies.

Brendon Trombley — A game designer who collaborated with Jesse to design educational games.

Minecraft — A platform used creatively by Brendon to teach biology concepts through interactive simulations.

Rafe Kelley — Referenced for insights on play and movement.

CrossFit — Mentioned as a comparison for physical training methodologies.

International Gathering — A community event showcasing parkour practices.

Fight Club (1999) — Referenced metaphorically for its concept of transient connections.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What are the key considerations in designing, constructing, and sustaining inspiring gym spaces that foster exploration and play?

Andy Taylor discusses the intricacies of designing and building a great parkour gym. Along the way, we talk about what makes a gym inspiring, the evolution of build standards that are safe without limiting parkour vision, and how parkour has been instrumental in the development of a young autistic girl.

"When I sit down to design a gym, I try to call to the inner child that is in us that makes us wanna play." ~ Andy Taylor (1:30)

This conversation deconstructs the intricacies of designing gym spaces that inspire creativity and exploration. Topics include the importance of tapping into a child-like desire to play, using thoughtful design to increase engagement, and ensuring safety without stifling creativity. Practical examples are shared, such as integrating features that naturally draw attention and encourage varied movements.

The discussion also touches on challenges unique to parkour gyms, such as meeting building codes, balancing budgets, and navigating regulatory hurdles. Andy and Craig explore how gym designs can range from expansive, multi-use facilities to smaller, community-oriented spaces. They emphasize the need for better standards and guidelines to support gym builders in creating safe yet imaginative environments.

Takeaways

Designing for play — Gym spaces should inspire a child-like desire to explore and interact.

Balancing aesthetics and utility — Effective gym design combines visual appeal with practical use.

Safety through design — Safety features must be thoughtfully integrated to minimize risk without diminishing creativity.

Regulatory challenges — Parkour gyms face unique obstacles with inconsistent building codes and standards.

Scale considerations — Smaller gyms provide intimacy, while larger facilities require diversification for sustainability.

Importance of standards — Developing shared guidelines for construction and safety is crucial for the parkour community.

Encouraging creativity — Well-designed spaces enable a wide range of movements and inspire new possibilities.

Support for new builders — Mentorship and resources are vital for those new to gym construction.

Inclusivity in design — Gym spaces can support diverse users, including those with special needs.

Resources

TeachBuildPlay Facebook Page — Andy's platform for sharing ideas and connecting with the community.

Google SketchUp — A tool used for designing and modeling gym spaces.

Tempest Freerunning Academy — An example of a large, well-known parkour gym.

SCORE — A resource mentioned as a helpful guide for entrepreneurs navigating business challenges.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What motivates and shapes individual approaches to physical training, risk management, and personal growth?

Elet Hall takes time out from a motorcycle engine rebuild to discuss his approach to training (and not training), challenge, risk, danger, consequences, and why he walked away from American Ninja Warrior. Along the way, we talk about Lyme disease, and his work with the Bay Area Lyme Foundation, before he shares his four words to describe his practice.

"Strength of character is what I’m looking for in almost everything that I do." ~ Elet Hall (30:00)

The conversation begins with reflections on Elet's experiences in Ninja Warrior and parkour, emphasizing the importance of meeting people where they are in their personal journeys. It touches on how perceptions of these activities differ and how they can be bridges rather than barriers for people seeking self-improvement.

Further, the discussion moves to Elet’s personal training philosophy, rooted in nature and holistic approaches. Topics like the subjective and objective impacts of training, footwear choices for outdoor activities, and the biological and psychological effects of connecting with natural environments are explored. He highlights the value of understanding one's own body and tailoring training to personal goals and limitations.

The latter part delves into a life-threatening incident that prompted Elet to reassess motivations and commitments. This leads to discussions on Lyme disease, its impact on energy levels, and the necessity of intentional training. The conversation ends with a reflection on building strength of character through thoughtful engagement with challenges, whether in parkour, life, or other pursuits.

Takeaways

Training for personal growth — Physical challenges can be transformative when approached with the right mindset.

Risk versus consequence — Every action in parkour and life involves balancing potential risks and consequences.

Connection with nature — Training outdoors provides unique challenges and rewards, fostering a deeper sense of fulfillment.

Minimalist footwear benefits — Choosing less structured footwear can enhance sensory feedback and overall physical awareness.

Holistic health management — Balancing exercise, diet, and self-care is critical for managing chronic conditions like Lyme disease.

Motivations for participation — It’s vital to understand why someone engages in a practice and to support their journey.

Strength of character — Facing and overcoming challenges builds self-confidence and personal resilience.

Reevaluating goals — Life events can prompt reassessment of what truly aligns with one's values and passions.

Resources

Bay Area Lyme Foundation — An organization raising awareness and funding research for Lyme disease.

Merrell Trail Gloves — Minimalist footwear favored by the speaker for natural training environments.

Old Rag Mountain — A popular hiking spot mentioned in the discussion.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What drives personal growth and resilience in the face of immense physical, emotional, and cultural challenges?

Ševo Saša is best-known as an amazing and creative mover, and the founder of the Skochypstiks clothing line. In this interview he shares the story of his Parkour beginnings after the collapse of Yugoslavia, and his motivation for overcoming a devastating injury in his youth. Sasa’s love of people and profound discipline have enabled him to thrive amidst the cycles of life, and have lead him to tremendous personal growth.

"It doesn't happen with everyone. Everybody can motivate us in different ways, this is true, but this special moment is something that I will remember forever. Because I did something that I really didn't want to do, I kind of refused it with all my body, with everything, and when we ended I think I hugged him so hard, I was so happy doing this." ~ Ševo Saša (14:00)

The conversation explores the transformative journey from a war-torn Balkan region, navigating through cultural and personal challenges to find purpose and resilience in parkour. The discussion begins with the historical context of Yugoslavia's dissolution and the challenges of displacement, providing a backdrop to his initial experiences with movement and the foundational influence of his father. Overcoming severe physical injuries, Saša develops discipline through self-directed training and a deep love for movement.

The narrative progresses into his parkour evolution, shaped by diverse environments and communities. From training in Serbia to pioneering connections between neighboring Balkan countries through parkour, the conversation emphasizes the significance of shared experiences. Saša reflects on the broader cultural impact of these connections, uniting people across former divisions, and concludes by highlighting the importance of love, discipline, and people in his practice.

Takeaways

Love for movement — A central theme that inspired dedication and growth in parkour.

Impact of displacement — How personal and cultural history shaped his outlook and resilience.

Discipline as a foundation — Rigorous self-training and perseverance despite physical and mental barriers.

Role of community — The importance of shared experiences in parkour to build connections and unity.

Parkour as a bridge — Its role in uniting people across post-war Balkan countries.

Adapting to environments — Embracing change and new challenges to drive personal growth.

Transformative experiences — How struggles, such as the 101 training, pushed personal limits and created lasting memories.

The power of connection — Focusing on people and relationships over obstacles or achievements.

Resources

Laurent Piemontesi — Insight into the “101” quadrupedal training exercises.

Colin McRae Rally Video Game — A part of Sasa’s recovery story and early life context.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What motivates individuals to transform their lives and turn challenges into opportunities for growth and creativity?

Matthew Poprocki does what he loves. Formally a visual artist, he is now a movement artist who likes to play and overcome obstacles. He discusses the challenges he’s faced and how he rediscovered his artistic expression through Parkour.

"I realized after a few years, I didn’t lose it, I’m still an artist, I’m a Life artist." ~ Matthew Poprocki (7:16)

The conversation explores the profound journey of an individual who transitioned from a career in graphic design to becoming a movement artist and coach. Struggling with dissatisfaction in a desk job, addiction, and health challenges, Matthew found solace and purpose in Parkour. This shift allowed him to embrace creativity and play, not only as an outlet but as a way to teach and inspire others.

Key topics include the philosophy of overcoming obstacles, the transition from visual to movement arts, and the role of Parkour in cultivating resilience and mindfulness. Through personal anecdotes, Matthew shares insights on viewing challenges as opportunities and finding joy in being present, creative, and connected to life.

Takeaways

Creativity through movement — Parkour offers a new medium for artistic expression and personal fulfillment.

Life as art — Redefining artistry by integrating creativity into daily activities and experiences.

Resilience in adversity — Viewing life’s challenges as opportunities to demonstrate strength and adapt.

Philosophy of play — Rediscovering joy and presence through movement and coaching.

The transformation of perspective — From seeing obstacles as burdens to viewing them as opportunities for growth.

Impact of mindfulness — Being fully present enhances life experiences and fosters creativity.

Redefining success — Prioritizing passion and fulfillment over societal expectations of work and productivity.

The role of Parkour in teaching — Empowering others through creative coaching and sharing lived experiences.

Resources

Parkour Generations — Mentioned as a movement-focused community and training resource.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What can we learn about personal growth, resilience, and community through extreme physical challenges?

Chris Keighley helps me muscle up the strength to understand challenge. We discuss its rewards, hazards, and how it can be a powerful tool for personal growth from day one. He shares stories from behind the scenes of the 1,000 Muscle-Up Challenge, and talks about finding challenge in more mundane activities, like building a tire tower at the Gerlev International Gathering.

"Modern life doesn't give you many chances of seeing what you're capable of." ~ Chris Keighley (6:30)

The conversation centers on the 1000 Muscle-Up Challenge, an intense physical and mental test. The origins of the challenge, its evolution from a hypothetical debate to an actual event, and the experiences of participants highlight themes of resilience, camaraderie, and self-discovery. Chris navigates physical exhaustion and mental roadblocks, supported by a tight-knit community, ultimately revealing their limits and potential.

Other topics include the broader philosophy of challenges in parkour and training. The discussion explores how setting appropriately difficult challenges helps individuals grow, with parallels drawn between physical challenges and life experiences. The importance of community support in such endeavors, as well as the transformative effects of overcoming personal boundaries, are recurring themes.

Takeaways

Challenges and growth — Difficult challenges reveal untapped potential and build resilience.

Camaraderie in struggle — Support from others transforms individual challenges into shared victories.

The mental aspect of training — Mental endurance is just as crucial as physical strength in overcoming obstacles.

Personal limits and discovery — Pushing beyond known limits fosters personal growth and self-awareness.

The role of uncertainty — Effective challenges must be within reach but not guaranteed, encouraging full effort.

Value of small challenges — Even minor challenges, like balancing exercises, can be deeply rewarding.

Physical risk and wisdom — Extreme challenges require careful judgment about safety and personal limits.

Adapting training — Different challenges suit different stages of experience and capability.

The joy of overcoming — Achieving difficult goals provides a profound sense of accomplishment and pride.

Resources

Parkour Generations — A global organization offering parkour training and education.

David Belle — A foundational figure in parkour, influencing the ethos of physical and mental challenges.

(Written with Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What does it take to transform personal struggles and passions into a thriving community that fosters movement, connection, and belonging?

Andrew Foster shares his fascinating journey from his home-schooled beginnings in Ohio, Arabic studies, and living in Jordan, (including meeting and training with Danny Ilabaca in Cairo) to facing the dark challenge of losing everything- including his purpose in life. Starting renewed from his lowest point, on a mountaintop in Colorado, he describes finding new purpose and direction, bringing him full circle to his home town in Ohio.

"We come from dust, and we return to dust. We don’t have anything except what we’re given." ~ Andrew Foster (16:09)

Andrew Foster recounts his life journey, beginning with a childhood filled with classical music, philosophy, and a homeschooling environment that prioritized learning over grades. He describes his forays into sports like swimming and soccer, where he embraced the challenges of being an underdog. His passion for movement led him to Parkour, despite initial parental opposition, and to formative experiences abroad in the Middle East, where he studied Arabic and connected with Parkour communities.

A pivotal moment came when Andrew faced personal and professional loss, culminating in a cathartic experience atop a Colorado mountain. This epiphany shifted his perspective on life, motivating him to embrace gratitude, faith, and a commitment to community. Returning to Ohio, he founded Akron Movement Family, a Parkour gym centered on movement, love, and family, with the goal of creating a supportive, inclusive space for individuals to thrive physically and emotionally.

Takeaways

Movement as a central theme — Andrew explores how movement connects deeply to life and human experience.

Overcoming adversity — Reflecting on his struggles, Andrew highlights how challenges shaped his resilience and vision.

Building community — He emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where individuals feel valued and supported.

Cultural exchange and growth — His experiences in the Middle East broadened his perspective and reinforced the universal language of movement.

Transformational moments — A profound experience in the Rockies symbolized renewal and the start of a new purpose-driven journey.

Founding Akron Movement Family — The gym represents a culmination of his values, aiming to inspire and support a diverse community.

Resources

Akron Movement Family — Andrew’s Parkour gym focused on community, movement, and love.

Daniel Ilabaca — An influential Parkour figure and inspiration in Andrew's journey, mentioned for his teachings and philosophies.

University of Jordan — The institution where Andrew studied Arabic during a transformative period of his life.

Bruce Lee’s “Flow like water” philosophy — Referenced in the conversation to illustrate movement's deeper significance.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What are the transformative possibilities of integrating Parkour into educational frameworks, and how can its values be preserved amidst sportification pressures?

Finn Berggren shares his thoughts on Parkour, explaining why he brought Parkour to Gerlev Idrætshøjskole in Denmark to replace the traditional gymnastics curriculum. We also discuss the “sportification” of Parkour and the Olympics, and he shares his story of the pivotal moment which solidified his decision to bring Parkour to Gerlev.

"We built the first Parkour park in the world because it was a park designed to teach for pedagogical reasons and not just for doing, but also to learn how to do it and, at the same time, understand the philosophy behind Parkour." ~ Finn Berggren (7:00)

Finn Berggren shares his experiences as the principal of Gerlev Sports Academy, where he has transformed the institution’s approach to movement education by integrating Parkour. He recounts discovering Parkour through a television program and how its unstructured, innovative nature captivated him. His vision led to the creation of the world's first pedagogical Parkour park, designed to teach movement and philosophy rather than competitive techniques. Finn discusses Gerlev’s evolution from a gymnastics-focused academy to a hub for diverse movement practices, including Parkour and street dance, emphasizing personal development and inclusivity.

Finn also reflects on the broader implications of sportification, warning against its potential to restrict the freedom and creativity inherent in Parkour. He advocates for preserving its unstructured, exploratory spirit and suggests using networks rather than rigid organizations to maintain its authenticity. Finn shares a personal story of witnessing children’s spontaneous engagement with movement, underscoring the importance of fun, challenge, and reflection in promoting physical activity and holistic development.

Takeaways

Fun as a foundation — Movement education thrives on enjoyment, which combats inactivity and encourages sustained engagement.

Challenges in Parkour — Emphasizes personal and mental challenges as vital components of growth.

Reflection in sport — Movement practices should promote reflection on societal and health impacts.

Parkour's introduction at Gerlev — Brought new vitality and philosophy to the academy's curriculum.

Development of the first Parkour park — A unique pedagogical space that merged practice and philosophy.

Sportification concerns — Over-structuring risks eroding the freedom and innovation central to Parkour.

Educational philosophy — Gerlev focuses on personal development over examinations, fostering individual responsibility.

Networking versus organizing — Networks are preferred to preserve Parkour’s values and resist rigid institutionalization.

Resources

Gerlev Sports Academy — The institution spearheading innovative movement education, including the world’s first Parkour park.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What unique perspectives can be gained by exploring the interplay of movement disciplines like Capoeira, Parkour, and natural movement?

Paul brings his extensive experience to bear to provide insight into Capoeira. We go on to talk about how movement itself can be a conversation, before we dig deep into the human need to experience nature as part of our lives, as well as part of our parkour practice.

"You see it coming, you get out of the way." ~ Paul Graves (10:04)

The conversation begins by exploring the transformative role of Capoeira in shaping social skills and personal identity. Paul Graves shares his journey through Capoeira, detailing its cultural richness, the dynamics of the roda, and the life-altering impact of movement-based dialogues. He explains how his Capoeira nickname, identity, and eventual departure from the practice marked a profound personal shift.

Transitioning to Parkour, the discussion highlights how Paul's movement philosophy evolved to embrace play and adaptability. He goes into Parkour's roots in both urban and natural environments, emphasizing the importance of connecting with nature to rediscover primal human movement. Themes of engagement, community, and the psychological impacts of training environments are central to understanding how movement disciplines shape both personal and collective growth.

Takeaways

Capoeira's roda — A dynamic microcosm of life involving movement dialogue and mutual respect.

The impact of leaving Capoeira — Marked a significant identity shift and opened the door to new explorations.

Parkour's appeal — A practice that emphasizes freedom, exploration, and connection with the environment.

Natural movement's relevance — Returning to nature reveals deeper aspects of movement and human connection.

Philosophy of play — Play as a central concept that fosters learning and adaptability across disciplines.

Overcoming challenges — Movement practices mirror life's obstacles and solutions.

Community dynamics in training — Engagement with others shapes the experience of growth and achievement.

Balancing structured and free movement — Combining discipline and creativity to maximize potential.

Resources

Parkour Visions — An organization focusing on Parkour education and community.

Evolve Move Play — A program exploring natural movement in outdoor environments.

Capoeira: Roots of the Dance-Fight-Game — A book exploring the history and philosophy of Capoeira.

Julie Angel’s Videos — Documenting movement practices like Parkour and natural movement.

Art of Retreat — A gathering for movement practitioners to explore diverse disciplines.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What is the unique role of Parkour in fostering mindfulness, community, and personal growth?

Max Henry shares his introduction and journey into parkour, and how he’s gotten to where he is. He unpacks his book, the Parkour Roadmap, explaining what it is, and why he wrote it, before delving into his work on the Water Project with Know Obstacles. Max discusses his thoughts on the infrastructure of parkour, the changes parkour could undergo as it evolves, and the responsibility he feels to preserve the heart of parkour as it grows.

"The story that you tell people is the story that they'll believe, and that's the story that you become." ~ Max Henry (18:20)

This conversation explores Max Henry's journey in Parkour, detailing his early fascination with movement and the philosophy underpinning the discipline. Max shares how his diverse background in sports and music influenced his approach, and he reflects on the role of mindfulness in overcoming physical and mental barriers in training. The conversation highlights his dedication to the global Parkour community, as seen through his coaching work and involvement in projects like the Copper Water initiative in Africa.

The discussion goes into the maturation of Parkour as a sport, addressing its increasing accessibility, media portrayal, and potential future directions. Key themes include preserving the spirit of Parkour while embracing its growth, the challenges faced by professional athletes in the field, and the importance of community-driven efforts to ensure its sustainable development.

Takeaways

The philosophy of Parkour — A discipline rooted in overcoming challenges through physical movement and mental focus.

Mindfulness in Parkour — Emphasizing the role of attention in training to enhance emotional regulation and reduce fear.

Cultural evolution — Parkour's journey from niche practice to growing global recognition mirrors other sports like climbing.

Community-driven growth — The importance of grassroots efforts in maintaining the authenticity and ethos of Parkour.

Challenges for athletes — Professional Parkour athletes face financial and career sustainability hurdles despite their dedication.

Global outreach — Parkour's role in initiatives like the Copper Water project demonstrates its potential to inspire and support communities worldwide.

Media responsibility — The narratives shared about Parkour shape public perception and the sport’s development.

Balancing risk and creativity — Athletes push boundaries to innovate while striving to maintain safety and authenticity.

Resources

The Parkour Roadmap — Max Henry’s book offering insights into the history, philosophy, and techniques of Parkour.

Alex Honnold: Alone on the Wall — A book exploring the mental and physical discipline in climbing, referenced in the conversation.

Storror — A Parkour team creating influential media content and shaping perceptions of the sport.

Know Obstacles — A Parkour clothing company involved in community projects like the Copper Water initiative.

American Rendezvous — An event fostering connections among Parkour practitioners globally.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

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I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

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