What you put on your feet can quietly sabotage your technique or unlock a level of performance you didn't know you had.

In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Denis Vasilev, MA, 11x Kettlebell World Champion, IKO Master Coach & Founder, who returns to break down the overlooked performance variable most lifters ignore: footwear. A multiple-time kettlebell sport champion and elite-level competitor, Denis recently won a competition with 85 reps in 10 minutes using double 32kg in the long cycle—an internationally ranked, top-tier result, especially at age 42. He explains why traditional weightlifting shoes can mask flaws, how minimalist footwear improves feedback and consistency, and what that means for strength, efficiency, and long-set performance.

Key Takeaways:

→ Better sensory input from the ground helps people self-correct their technique in real time.

→ Heel lift and rigid structure may mask mobility and timing issues rather than fix them.

→ Thick, rigid. Heels reduce feedback, tempting lifters to slam rather than time the movement.

→ Feeling stance changes immediately allows people to correct before they compound into fatigue and wasted energy.

→ Toe space matters more than people realize, but if they return to narrow shoes, the restriction becomes obvious.

Denis Vasilev is a globally recognized Kettlebell Sport athlete, coach, and educator with more than 25 years of experience in the discipline. He began his Kettlebell Sport journey at age 16 in 1999 and has become one of the most decorated athletes in the sport's history. He has earned prestigious ranks, including Master of Sport International Class, and competed for the Russian National Kettlebell Sport Team from 2008 to 2015, performing at the highest professional level worldwide. Denis holds a Master's Degree in Physical Education & Sport Pedagogy from Lesgaft National State University in St. Petersburg and has been coaching athletes since 2009. He is the founder of the International Kettlebell Organization (IKO) and the Kettlebell Sport World League. Additionally, Denis is the creator of BELLEVATOR, a premium line of Kettlebell Sport belts and apparel, and continues to lead and inspire the Kettlebell Sport community worldwide.

Connect With Denis:

Website: https://www.denisvasilevkettlebell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denisvasilevkettlebell/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DenisVasilevKettlebell

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Nike says this new "brain-first" shoe can unlock focus and performance but does the science hold up, or is it just brilliant marketing?

In this episode of the The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Courtney Conley, Jay Dicharry, Dr. Irene Davis, and Dr. Emily Splichal who break down Nike's new sensory-focused shoe and the bold claims behind its "mind tech," from two-point discrimination to "amplifying" what your feet feel. The conversation challenges whether thick cushioning and widely spaced pods can truly enhance sensory input — and why novelty and instability can be mistaken for real performance gains. You'll also hear the bigger takeaway: how to think about foot strength, sensation, and movement so you're not buying a shortcut that quietly makes you weaker.

Key Takeaways:

→ How Nike's two-point discrimination explanation doesn't match the large, spaced pods on the shoes.

→ How Nike's design appears to ignore the toes, which is a major sensory area.

→ Why the thick, soft cushioning may mute sensation, contradicting Nike's claim.

→ Why claiming a shoe has both barefoot benefits and more protection is misleading.

→ How Nike's creation of a "minimalist shoe" sparks mainstream awareness of foot sensory science and education.

Courtney Conley is a chiropractic physician specializing in foot and gait mechanics. She holds a B.A. in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland, as well as a B.A. in Human Biology in addition to a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine from the National University of Health Sciences. Jay Dicharry is one of America's leading physical therapists and a board-certified Sports Clinical Specialist. Dicharry's REP Lab is a national destination for elite athletes because he diagnoses and rebuilds injured endurance athletes. Dr. Irene Davis is the founding Director of the Spaulding National Running Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School. Dr. Davis received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Massachusetts, and in Physical Therapy from the University of Florida. Dr. Emily Splichal, Functional Podiatrist and Human Movement Specialist, is the Founder of EBFA Global, Creator of the Barefoot Training Specialist® Certification, Author of Barefoot Strong and CEO/Founder of Naboso Technology.

Connect With Courney:

Website: https://gaithappens.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaithappens/

Connect with Jay:

Website: https://anathletesbody.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaydicharry/

Connect with Irene:

Website: https://www.irenedavisbooks.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irene-davis-2904158/

Connect with Emily:

Website: https://www.naboso.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naboso_technology/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nabosotechnology

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Xero Shoes: https://xeroshoes.com/

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Discover the art and science of kettlebell training for a unique fitness experience unlike any other.

In this episode of the The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen interviews Denis Vasilev, MA, 11x Kettlebell World Champion, IKO Master Coach and Founder, who dives into the world of resistance training. They discuss the profound mental and physical benefits of kettlebell training, emphasizing the importance of consistency and strategic workout scheduling. Through Denis's expertise and passion for coaching, listeners are encouraged to explore the artistic and challenging nature of kettlebell sport to enhance their fitness levels and achieve personal milestones.

Key Takeaways:

→ How resistance training is crucial for building muscle mass and longevity.

→ Why consistency in training is key and how just three workouts a week can lead to significant results.

→ How engaging in kettlebell training is achieved by utilizing gravity and body weight shifts.

→ Why your training progression with kettlebells should start light by mastering technique and gradually increasing weight.

→ How proper weigh distribution allows individuals to adjust their body position and maintain the correct form.

Denis Vasilev is a globally recognized Kettlebell Sport athlete, coach, and educator with over 25 years of experience in the discipline. Beginning his Kettlebell Sport journey at the age of 16 in 1999, Denis has become one of the most decorated athletes in the sport's history. He has earned prestigious ranks, including Master of Sport International Class, and competed for the Russian National Kettlebell Sport Team from 2008 to 2015, performing at the highest professional level worldwide. Denis holds a Master's Degree in Physical Education & Sport Pedagogy from Lesgaft National State University in St. Petersburg and has been coaching athletes since 2009. He is the founder of the International Kettlebell Organization (IKO) and the Kettlebell Sport World League. Additionally, Denis is the creator of BELLEVATOR, a premium line of kettlebell sport belts and apparel, continuing to lead and inspire the Kettlebell Sport community worldwide.

Connect With Denis:

Website: https://www.denisvasilevkettlebell.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denisvasilevkettlebell/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DenisVasilevKettlebell

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From San Diego to Florida, this cross-country trek raises Alzheimer's awareness while spotlighting the power of natural movement, smart footwear, and a strong community.

In this episode of the The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen interviews Judy Benjamin, who embarked on a remarkable journey from San Diego to Florida to raise awareness for Alzheimer's disease. Judy's powerful story highlights the importance of early detection, proper walking techniques, and footwear from Xero Shoes in managing her own early Alzheimer's diagnosis. Through personal anecdotes, she emphasizes lifestyle changes like exercise, diet, and humor to enhance brain health while shedding light on the emotional and financial burdens faced by families affected by Alzheimer's.

Key Takeaways:

→ Why it's vital to focus on good posture, foot placement, and body alignment during walks.

→ How people should educate yourself about Alzheimer's disease and the Bredesen Protocol.

→ Why incorporating humor into your daily life helps navigate challenging situations.

→ How prioritizing exercise as a key component of a healthy lifestyle is crucial.

→ The importance of balancing enjoyment while taking care of your health.

Judy Benjamin, Ph.D., lives a life centered on making a difference in the World. With a doctorate in Medical Anthropology from Binghamton University, Benjamin had an accomplished career focused on conflict-affected and less developed countries, applying professional social science skills in gender, education, health, and economic development across over 30 countries worldwide. Before her coaching practice, she focused on reconstruction and development in conflict-affected countries. Previously, she has worked for organizations such as CARE International, the International Rescue Committee, the Academy for Educational Development, the United States Agency for International Development, the UN World Food Program, UNICEF, and the UN Development Program. She is a National Board-Certified and ReCODE-certified Health and Wellness Coach with Apollo Health, a yoga teacher, and a therapist.

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Links Mentioned: http://NaturallyIntense.net

Uncover the secrets of optimal fitness, longevity, and peak performance as we dive into the fascinating world of fascia and movement.

In this episode of The Movement Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Dr. Edythe Heus, Founder and Creator of Rev6 and a movement expert, who explores the importance of incorporating risk and novelty into fitness routines for optimal performance and enjoyment. From martial arts anecdotes to promoting natural movement patterns, this episode inspires listeners to embrace challenges and live life feet first.

Key Takeaways:

→ How fascia plays a crucial role in movement and overall health.

→ Activating small muscles through unstable surfaces showcases the importance of fascia in coordinating movement.

→ The interconnectedness of fascia and muscles is crucial in movement and strength training.

→ Walking barefoot on various surfaces can improve foot reflexes and aid in the development of arches in the feet.

→ An optimal fitness program should include novelty, sensory stimulation, complexity, and precise sequencing.

Dr. Edythe Heus is a chiropractor specializing in kinesiology, Stecco Fascial Manipulation, and functional neurology. With a deep passion for movement and how the body functions in harmony, she can identify dysfunctions simply by observing someone's walk. Over the years, she developed Rev6, a movement system designed to restore coordination, enhance vitality, and improve ease of movement. To share her insights, Dr. Heus created The Essentials, a teaching tool that helps practitioners assess and correct inefficiencies and compensations in movement. Her patients, from injury survivors to elite performers, have been her greatest teachers, revealing connections that no textbook could explain. Today, Dr. Heus continues to treat patients, certify doctors and trainers in Rev6, and create new exercises to help individuals meet the physical and neurological demands of daily life. She's always observing movement, even in her dreams.

Connect With Dr. Edythe Heus:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Get your first 3 months of Rev6 On-Demand subscription by going to https://rev6.fit/promo/ and entering the code XERO

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Think your shoes are helping your feet? You might be shocked by what the science actually says.

In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen interviews Dr. Jenn Perez, Co-Founder and COO of Gait Happens, who joins the show to debunk foot myths and explain how modern footwear influences your movement. Drawing on emerging research and years of clinical teaching worldwide, Dr. Perez explains pronation, toe spring, the windlass mechanism, and why "foot strength" is finally measurable in minimalist footwear studies. She and host Steven Sashen discuss how to build resilient, pain-free feet by allowing them to function as they are naturally designed.

Key Takeaways:

→ Foot strength is more important than quadriceps strength in determining fall risk in the elderly.

→ Changes in gait and walking speed can be early indicators of mental decline and potential dementia diagnosis.

→ Flat feet and pronation are separate concepts with different implications for foot health.

→ Understanding foot anatomy is crucial in designing minimal shoes that support optimal foot function.

→ Foot strength and alignment are crucial for overall health, athletic performance, and fall prevention.

Dr. Jen Perez is the co-founder and COO of Gait Happens, a global leader in lower extremity education. As a chiropractor and gait specialist, Dr. Perez is passionate about educating both individuals and professionals on the importance of lower extremity biomechanics in obtaining meaningful results for patients. She holds a Doctorate in Chiropractic and a Bachelor's of Science degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Medicine. Based in Lafayette, CO, Dr. Perez also owns and operates Kinetic Chiropractic, where she offers personalized care and treatment to help patients restore optimal movement and alleviate pain. Through her online and in-person work, she has helped clients worldwide, with a focus on foot health and corrective exercise. Dr. Perez has been featured on 9News and in publications such as Women's Health, National Geographic, and CNN Underscored. In addition to her teaching and course writing with Gait Happens, she has also lectured to numerous educational institutions and associations, including the Canadian Pedorthic Association, Palmer College of Chiropractic, and the Florida Chiropractic Association.

Connect With Dr. Jen Perez:

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Unlock the secrets to optimal health and movement with expert insights on natural practices and regenerative techniques.

In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Dr. Grove Higgins, Owner and Chiropractor at Neuroathlete Clinic, who delves into the profound connection between natural movement and overall well-being. They explore the importance of learning from indigenous tribes' functional health practices, the impact of sensory awareness on movement quality, and the revolutionary regenerative techniques transforming orthopedics. Through insightful discussions on biomechanics, brain-body connections, and the power of embracing ancestral wisdom, listeners are invited to rethink conventional approaches to physical health and movement for a more vibrant and sustainable life.

Key Takeaways:

→ Natural movement is crucial for efficient movement and overall well-being.

→ Tai Chi improves balance, sensory awareness, and response time.

→ Humans evolved to run on natural terrains, not artificial surfaces like roads.

→ Environmental factors significantly impact foot development and morphology.

→ Regenerative techniques like shockwave therapy offer non-invasive solutions for structural restoration and tissue regrowth in orthopedic care.

Dr. Grove Higgins has dedicated nearly 30 years to the health field, starting as a physical therapy assistant in the early '90s and eventually earning a doctorate in Chiropractic medicine. With a private practice and corporate consulting experience, Dr. Higgins helps companies prevent loss from repetitive strain disorders. His mission has always been to help patients exceed their expectations of health. In 2010, Dr. Higgins co-founded LifeQuest Transitions, a non-profit supporting wounded soldiers in their transition to civilian life, impacting over 2,500 veterans. After the non-profit dissolved in 2012, Dr. Higgins returned to private practice, later reuniting with Lt. Col. Patrick Marques to develop the NeuroAthlete program and clinic. This led to the opening of a new facility in Monument, CO, designed to provide tailored care for clients in person and online. Dr. Higgins enjoys hiking, backpacking, and community involvement with his wife and three children, two of whom are pursuing military careers.

Connect With Dr. Grove Higgins:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

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Boost your CO2 tolerance and improve your breathing by practicing nose breathing techniques.

In this episode of The Movement Movement, Steven Sashen talks with Dr. John Douillard, DC, CAP, founder of LifeSpa and a respected figure in Ayurvedic medicine, who discusses how he's been combining ancient wisdom with modern science for over forty years. His groundbreaking work, particularly in his book Body, Mind, and Sport, examines the benefits of nose breathing versus mouth breathing during physical activity. Dr. Douillard's research indicates that nose breathing enhances nitric oxide production, a crucial factor in efficient oxygen intake and stress relief. It also significantly improves overall health and performance, as demonstrated in his work with elite athletes and firefighters. A strong advocate of the health benefits of nasal breathing, Dr. Douillard encourages making it a daily habit to enhance respiratory health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Key Takeaways:

→ Nose breathing improves oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal, enhancing respiratory fitness.

→ Engaging the diaphragm and rib cage through nose breathing leads to better respiratory health.

→ Breathing through your nose during exercise lowers your breathing rate and enhances performance.

→ Proper nose breathing techniques can enhance athletic performance and recovery by activating the lower lung lobes.

→ Chronic mouth breathing in children can negatively impact facial and airway development.

Dr. John Douillard, DC, CAP, is a globally recognized leader in the fields of Ayurveda, natural health, nutrition, and sports medicine. With 40 years of experience, he has helped over 100,000 patients. Dr. John is a renowned Ayurvedic educator, host of the Ayurveda Meets Modern Science podcast, and bestselling author of seven health books, including Eat Wheat and 3-Season Diet. He is the creator of LifeSpa.com, where he proves ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern science in articles published weekly. With its thousands of free educational articles and videos, LifeSpa.com is the leading Ayurvedic health resource on the web with 500,000+ social followers and newsletter readers.

Connect With John:

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Discover how an aerospace engineer turned ultra runner is helping athletes unlock their full potential by optimizing running techniques for peak performance and injury prevention.

In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Samuel Stow, an accomplished ultra runner with over two decades of endurance racing experience, who has carved a niche for himself in the optimization of running techniques. With a unique blend of aerospace engineering and biomechanics expertise, Samuel has effectively enhanced his own performance and that of his clients by integrating Chi running principles since 2009. He advocates for the utilization of the posterior chain, emphasizing the importance of proper body alignment, posture, and core activation, not only to boost performance but also for long-term health and injury prevention. A certified personal trainer, Samuel underscores the role of strength training in developing muscle awareness and biomechanical efficiency, making him a sought-after expert in optimizing running mechanics.

Key Takeaways:

→ Proper form and biomechanics are essential for efficient barefoot running.

→ Activating key muscles through proper posture can enhance running efficiency and prevent injury.

→ Maintaining correct posture and core engagement is crucial for running efficiently and maintaining overall health.

→ Activating the gluteus medius muscle is key for maintaining hip level and preventing movement inefficiencies.

→ An efficient leg swing with correct knee bending can significantly enhance running performance.

Samuel Stow is the owner and founder of Pop! Running and the movement expert behind The Functional Step, a powerful technique designed to improve biomechanics, efficiency, and reduce injury risk through a more conscious, connected approach to walking and running. As a world-record holding ultramarathoner and author of 'Pop! Running: Engineering Flow State', Sam combines movement education, breathwork, and mindfulness to help people find ease and efficiency in their movement patterns. What makes Sam's approach unique is his focus on the integration of physical awareness, mental presence, and mindful movement. Through Pop! Running, he and his team have helped thousands of athletes globally achieve their goals, from beginners to international-level runners. His innovative courses and programs help athletes move better, breathe better, and think better - creating sustainable, enjoyable movement practices that enhance both performance and wellbeing. Sam's method has helped thousands of people transform their relationship with movement, from professional athletes to seniors rediscovering the joy of pain-free walking. His upcoming book 'Pop! Running: Engineering Flow State' explores the powerful connection between movement, breathing, and mindset, offering readers a comprehensive approach to achieving flow in their running practice.

Connect With Samuel:

Pop Running!

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Unleash your inner speed demon as we dive into the adrenaline-fueled world of high-performance racing simulations.

In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Brian McRae, a professional sim racer who approaches the virtual racing world with the same dedication and seriousness as traditional motorsports, viewing it as a legitimate discipline within the racing community. He asserts that modern racing simulators offer a level of fidelity and realism akin to flight simulators, making them highly effective training tools for aspiring racers. By advocating for sim racing as a viable entry point into professional motorsports, McRae highlights success stories like those of NASCAR drivers Ty Majeski and William Byron, who transitioned from virtual to real-world racing. His passion for sim racing is further reflected in the vibrant community he has fostered, with his popular YouTube league drawing a dedicated audience and showcasing the thrill of racing without the financial and physical risks associated with traditional motorsport.

Key Takeaways:

→ Practice the heel-toe shifting technique for smoother gear engagement.

→ Explore paddle shifting for faster and more efficient gear changes.

→ Engage in short and intense physical activities for improved performance.

→ How people can learn from both their successes and their failures.

Brian McRae is the leader of Top Flight Sim Racing, a professional iRacing team specializing in stock car and sports car endurance racing. Since 2018, he has guided the team to over 20 wins, four league championships, and three class wins in prestigious endurance events, including back-to-back victories at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring and an outright win at the 2021 iRacing Petit Le Mans. With a passion for racing, Brian has also competed in the iRacing Daytona 24, one of the largest global online racing events. At Top Flight Sim Racing, collaboration, strategy, and mental endurance are at the core of their success, as the team races five nights a week in the OBRL, one of iRacing's premier leagues.

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