How to fix Kyphosis and improve posture?

I mean, she earned it... It was clearly foreshadowed way earlier, I just wasn't paying attention (my bad).
Man, it’s like someone poking you right in the nerve with a tiny knife—it isn't just one spot, either; the sensation kind of bleeds out into everything around it. And usually, it's just those tiny micro-movements that trigger it, nothing major.

I honestly think you really ought to learn these exercises under some kind of supervision. It's just so incredibly tough to actually tell if your body is sitting in the right position while you're mid-movement, you know?

Walter Ross10 said:Thanks a lot to everyone for the replies.
I mentioned earlier that my question might be a bit naive, mostly because I have absolutely no clue if most people live with some level of postural deviation that’s just considered "normal" within reason, or if these issues are strictly reserved for the sick and injured—or perhaps it's so widespread that most people aren't even aware they have it.

Should every recreational athlete seek out a professional for an assessment?

What are the actual red flags for posture problems? Could it simply manifest as having a specific weak point, like lower back weakness, for example?

Nicole Ross, I was looking through your site, and the reason I'm asking these questions is that the case studies you feature involve people dealing with headaches or other obvious symptoms, which leaves me a bit confused.
By the way, I would send a photo, but honestly, I don't think I'd make the trip out to Brezice for a consultation right now; money is a bit tight at the moment, so I'm not sure what the cost would be.🙂

Reviewing photos doesn't cost anything, but through that process, you can actually discover how your various issues link back to your posture—things you might have just gotten used to and therefore don't even realize are causing trouble. Headaches are usually tied to tension in the muscles along the front and/or back of the torso. There's an article about that on the site.
Usually, the big indicators for posture and movement problems are unexplained chronic pain, a sense of stiffness when moving, or general fatigue. And yes, unfortunately, a massive majority of people deal with these exact issues today.

rustybadger42 said:So you’re basically admitting that locomotor issues stem from sensorimotor dysfunction centered in the CNS—and that motor skills are driven by it, rather than happening independently, like you were claiming just the other day. Good for you. 😉
I assume you've also realized that muscles under constant tension can't actually be weak or atrophied—which was the whole point of our debate. Strengthening or stretching them isn't the fix.
Of course the idea is good. It’s more than just a concept; it actually works in practice.

😁

Honestly, there’s something almost comical about the way you all approach this logic... 😁

Everyone is a mammal. Every single dog is a mammal. Therefore, logically speaking, all humans are dogs.

Muscles get stronger through tension. You can't have strong muscles that are atrophied. Therefore, if you have muscles that are constantly under tension, there is simply no way for them to be weak or wasted away.

Doctors are the ones who help people heal. Some folks claim that Ante Pavlovic played a role in their recovery process. Therefore, you could say Ante Pavlovic is a doctor who aids in healing.

Thanks for the "bravo," but honestly, it’s a bit of a stretch to think any of these conclusions will actually hold water. Even if you're basing them on perfectly accurate premises, that kind of logic just doesn't lead to the right destination. 🙂

It’s actually quite helpful that you pointed out that one little detail which so many people tend to promote. Honestly, a lot of folks don't really grasp the distinction between being "stiff" and being "strong." Think of it this way: glass is rigid and brittle, whereas a rope is strong yet incredibly flexible. Muscles work the exact same way. Those that are merely stiff are prone to snapping, while truly strong muscles can endure just about any amount of strain. If you stay stuck in a state of constant stiffness—where your muscles and connective tissues are perpetually tense within a limited range of motion—they eventually reach a breaking point. They simply know when it's time to snap.

Walter Ross10 said:Thanks a lot to everyone for the replies.
I mentioned earlier that my question might be a bit naive, mostly because I have absolutely no clue if most people live with some level of postural deviation that’s just considered "normal" within reason, or if these issues are strictly reserved for the sick and injured—or perhaps it's so widespread that most people aren't even aware they have it.

Should every recreational athlete seek out a professional for an assessment?

What are the actual red flags for posture problems? Could it simply manifest as having a specific weak point, like lower back weakness, for example?

Nicole Ross, I was looking through your site, and the reason I'm asking these questions is that the case studies you feature involve people dealing with headaches or other obvious symptoms, which leaves me a bit confused.
By the way, I would send a photo, but honestly, I don't think I'd make the trip out to Brezice for a consultation right now; money is a bit tight at the moment, so I'm not sure what the cost would be.🙂

That is such a smart question. Honestly, so many people struggle with posture issues without even realizing they’re doing anything wrong. It's easy to just drift into bad habits. Take kids, for example—you see them walking into school every day with their heavy backpacks slung over just one shoulder. That kind of imbalance is a recipe for developing scoliosis down the road. And women often fall into this trap too, especially when they constantly carry a handbag on just one side. It really adds up!

Then you have those exercisers who end up wrecking their own posture by training incorrectly. A textbook example would be the people who read those fitness articles claiming that pull-ups and bench presses are all you ever need to develop the upper body—one for pulling movements and one for pushing. They might even throw some barbell work into the mix, only to end up developing a hunchback. Eventually, even a simple bridge becomes a massive struggle because they’ve essentially "built" their own kyphosis, causing them to slouch in a way that leads to pain in the wrists, palms, and shoulders. Then there are the folks who try to "stretch" using a restricted range of motion during static, passive exercises; they are effectively shortening their own natural range of motion. On the flip side, making sudden, jerky movements can lead to the stretching or tearing of muscles, tendons, or ligaments—and if you're lucky, they won't snap entirely. Once that kind of injury occurs, it throws off your entire posture and disrupts how other muscles function through a whole chain reaction.

Unbalanced training definitely increases the risk of developing poor posture. On the flip side, training correctly can actually help fix it. It might not be a total cure-all, but it certainly can mitigate some of the fallout from bad form or improper movement. There are plenty of indicators out there, and honestly, just paying close attention can be a massive help to most casual gym-goers. You simply take a look, compare it to what looks normal, and if you're feeling unsure, go find some professional advice.

quietpilot87 said:I don't know. No one ever really suggested I might have an issue... Besides, I did some rowing (pretty successfully) back in college, plus a bunch of other recreational stuff—though nothing consistent, admittedly.
The only real red flag was this "floating" nerve-like pain and stabbing sensation in my back that started in my early 20s. I didn't pay much attention to it because it was intermittent and would just fade away—plus, everyone else in my neighborhood was complaining about the same thing, so I figured it wasn't a big deal.

Until, you know, everything went south while I was under a barbell during squats.

Naturally, the second I walked into the clinic, the guy took one cursory glance and immediately told me exactly what was crooked and which vertebrae were likely the culprits.😁
Translation: only a doctor can truly see what's going on—and maybe a highly specialized trainer, but honestly, what are the odds you'll actually run into one of those? In the real world?

Anyway, if you’re feeling any kind of pain—even if it’s just occasional or pops up after certain activities—it's probably smart to go get checked out.

They say prevention is better than a cure, so it would be wise to assess your current state before starting a routine, then follow a targeted plan and program. Any competent trainer should be able to evaluate your posture, spine, and pelvis, but the reality is that many casual lifters tend to follow the "where's it free or cheapest" rule. As a result, they often end up with someone who ends up "scamming them for life." Spinal and knee issues account for the vast majority of injuries in recreational fitness—most commonly herniated discs and ligament tears. And all of that stems from improper technique. No matter how hard experienced trainers try to educate the general public, there will always be someone teaching the wrong way. Some people just have to learn through their own mistakes because they won't listen to anyone else's expertise. So, perhaps the better question isn't how to find a good trainer, but rather what the chances are of actually recognizing one when you see them. It's always best to trust your gut and your common sense; so far, that's proven to be the most effective solution.

Michelle Sanders72 said:I honestly think you really ought to learn these exercises under some kind of supervision. It's just so incredibly tough to actually tell if your body is sitting in the right position while you're mid-movement, you know?

That would indeed be the ideal scenario—training under professional guidance. But the question is, how many people actually have access to those kinds of training conditions?

Nicole Ross said:That’s kind of like saying the bench press is the only weightlifting exercise in existence.

Based on the method mentioned above, the difference lies in the fact that the client performs all movements under direct guidance and specific resistance from the therapist—the whole point being to help them rediscover that sense of proprioception they once had and ultimately boost systemic efficiency. That’s how you achieve the essential requirement for a healthy body: efficiency. Unnecessarily tense muscles just aren't efficient.

It's measured via palpation.
Of course—everything in neurology deals with this, just from a different angle, but the fundamental principle remains the same.

Since there hasn't been an answer to the question regarding the videos, should I assume there aren't any? Your pages look so beautifully and professionally designed, which is why it’s a bit surprising that there isn't a single video demonstrating your actual methodology, something most other clinics across the US typically provide. I've even heard great things about you being an excellent nutritionist, so this lack of connection between the neurology and physical therapy side is a little confusing. It would be wonderful to see how you actually work; it would really help convince people of the expertise and quality behind what you do. This is just a friendly suggestion, because right now, it feels like anyone wanting to learn more has to pay a €5 entry fee just to get a glimpse.

Walter Ross10 said:Thanks a lot to everyone for the replies.
I mentioned earlier that my question might be a bit naive, mostly because I have absolutely no clue if most people live with some level of postural deviation that’s just considered "normal" within reason, or if these issues are strictly reserved for the sick and injured—or perhaps it's so widespread that most people aren't even aware they have it.

Should every recreational athlete seek out a professional for an assessment?

What are the actual red flags for posture problems? Could it simply manifest as having a specific weak point, like lower back weakness, for example?

Nicole Ross, I was looking through your site, and the reason I'm asking these questions is that the case studies you feature involve people dealing with headaches or other obvious symptoms, which leaves me a bit confused.
By the way, I would send a photo, but honestly, I don't think I'd make the trip out to Brezice for a consultation right now; money is a bit tight at the moment, so I'm not sure what the cost would be.🙂

Hardly anyone has perfect posture these days. Just watch the people around you... how they walk, how they stand... Given our modern lifestyle, our proprioception is basically stripped away—it’s effectively impossible to avoid faulty movement patterns or maintain the kind of balanced movements required to keep the posture we had as kids. Most people have some form of misalignment, and for some, it's pretty obvious to the naked eye depending on how far it's progressed. That imbalance is just the body compensating to avoid negative effects. But over time, it turns into a cascade that leads to stiffness and pain. We don't feel the actual misalignment itself because the body adapts and the brain accepts it as "normal"—instead, we just feel the consequences it causes.
Training that's supposed to be performed correctly won't have a positive effect on a body that isn't in balance... which is why even athletes working with pros end up with terrible health in the long run. Take the guy in that video about pelvic drilling... the real issue is how mobile he is in the neck and shoulder area; if you look closely, his head is tilted slightly to the right, meaning his right side is subconsciously tighter and he's putting more weight on his right leg. Because of that, his exercises can't be symmetrical, and eventually, he ends up with pain in his right hip, knee, and foot. Differentiation is how you learn better proprioception—that sense of body position—and that's how you actually correct your posture.div>

Sean Bailey75 said:There are actual instruments used to pinpoint deviations from proper posture. To a trained eye, major imbalances are often obvious just by looking. These tools look like large protractors with scales and gauges, mostly measuring angles and ratios of specific body parts.

When it comes to checking yourself, there are several ways, but perhaps the best starting point would be simple observation—just using your own eyes. 🙂 Here, you can spot certain postural deviations (see the image all the way to the right):


Then, you have geometry issues (kind of like a car's alignment; if the alignment is off, you wear down your tires, wheels, and bearings), along with balance and symmetry issues in most vital parts of the body.


Finally, there's the range of motion for most motor functions; essentially, you can measure someone's reach or flexibility in fundamental strength or mobility exercises. This, in short, is what every trainer and trainee should know when they start working out, because certain exercises carry the risk of causing distorted posture or improper alignment.

There is more to it than that, but these are the basics that can help people track their own progress through training.

Kudos to your effort! I assume you know your profession well, but it might be a good idea to look into the terminology you're using, because in American, English, French, and German, differentiation carries different meanings than your interpretation.

My question is: is there a video that demonstrates the differences between your method and the work of other physical therapists? If not, there's a risk that people might think it's just the same thing (like physical therapy) but with different packaging (using "differentiation" instead of "physical therapy").

I use that specific word because, in my experience, it’s the best way to describe the result. It’s about getting a better sense of what’s happening inside the body—better resolution of the internal picture, so to speak. This leads to a heightened ability to feel subtle movements or slight shifts in force, which ultimately translates to better fluidity, balance, and efficiency. Essentially, the brain gets a much more finely differentiated map of the muscles and joints. That’s why I call it that.
I notice a really intense tendency with you guys to miss the forest for the trees. Honestly, it’s been obvious for a while—there's this habit of getting bogged down in minor details and losing sight of the big picture (or maybe just refusing to see it?). I think it's common among most physical therapists; they’re trained to obsess over a knee, for instance, without realizing the client's actual issue stems from the opposite shoulder.
All I want to say is that focusing on spelling errors, or deciding my use of "technical" terms is wrong, or making these—whether conscious or unconscious—attempts to discredit what I write... it feels unnecessary. If you use common sense, you won't find many "errors" in the logic of what I'm saying.

Like I mentioned before, I usually work with people who have already been through the ringer with physical therapy and didn't get the results they needed. They come to me because I don't work like a physical therapist, a chiropractor, or a massage therapist. It would be incredibly silly to explain the mechanics of how differentiation works, only for them to come to me and ask for the exact same stuff their PT did.
Just something to think about.

Nicole Ross said:I use that specific word because, in my experience, it’s the best way to describe the result. It’s about getting a better sense of what’s happening inside the body—better resolution of the internal picture, so to speak. This leads to a heightened ability to feel subtle movements or slight shifts in force, which ultimately translates to better fluidity, balance, and efficiency. Essentially, the brain gets a much more finely differentiated map of the muscles and joints. That’s why I call it that.
I notice a really intense tendency with you guys to miss the forest for the trees. Honestly, it’s been obvious for a while—there's this habit of getting bogged down in minor details and losing sight of the big picture (or maybe just refusing to see it?). I think it's common among most physical therapists; they’re trained to obsess over a knee, for instance, without realizing the client's actual issue stems from the opposite shoulder.
All I want to say is that focusing on spelling errors, or deciding my use of "technical" terms is wrong, or making these—whether conscious or unconscious—attempts to discredit what I write... it feels unnecessary. If you use common sense, you won't find many "errors" in the logic of what I'm saying.

Like I mentioned before, I usually work with people who have already been through the ringer with physical therapy and didn't get the results they needed. They come to me because I don't work like a physical therapist, a chiropractor, or a massage therapist. It would be incredibly silly to explain the mechanics of how differentiation works, only for them to come to me and ask for the exact same stuff their PT did.
Just something to think about.

Forest or trees aside, my question was actually very straightforward, so I’ll rephrase it to make it even clearer:

Is there a video out there somewhere where I can see exactly what you do to correct a hunched back?

Even just one single exercise. Even Moshe used to demonstrate things this way, so there really shouldn't be any reason to keep anything hidden if it isn't a secret.

Sean Bailey75 said:😁

Honestly, there’s something almost comical about the way you all approach this logic... 😁

Everyone is a mammal. Every single dog is a mammal. Therefore, logically speaking, all humans are dogs.

Muscles get stronger through tension. You can't have strong muscles that are atrophied. Therefore, if you have muscles that are constantly under tension, there is simply no way for them to be weak or wasted away.

Doctors are the ones who help people heal. Some folks claim that Ante Pavlovic played a role in their recovery process. Therefore, you could say Ante Pavlovic is a doctor who aids in healing.

Thanks for the "bravo," but honestly, it’s a bit of a stretch to think any of these conclusions will actually hold water. Even if you're basing them on perfectly accurate premises, that kind of logic just doesn't lead to the right destination. 🙂

It’s actually quite helpful that you pointed out that one little detail which so many people tend to promote. Honestly, a lot of folks don't really grasp the distinction between being "stiff" and being "strong." Think of it this way: glass is rigid and brittle, whereas a rope is strong yet incredibly flexible. Muscles work the exact same way. Those that are merely stiff are prone to snapping, while truly strong muscles can endure just about any amount of strain. If you stay stuck in a state of constant stiffness—where your muscles and connective tissues are perpetually tense within a limited range of motion—they eventually reach a breaking point. They simply know when it's time to snap.

That is such a smart question. Honestly, so many people struggle with posture issues without even realizing they’re doing anything wrong. It's easy to just drift into bad habits. Take kids, for example—you see them walking into school every day with their heavy backpacks slung over just one shoulder. That kind of imbalance is a recipe for developing scoliosis down the road. And women often fall into this trap too, especially when they constantly carry a handbag on just one side. It really adds up!

Then you have those exercisers who end up wrecking their own posture by training incorrectly. A textbook example would be the people who read those fitness articles claiming that pull-ups and bench presses are all you ever need to develop the upper body—one for pulling movements and one for pushing. They might even throw some barbell work into the mix, only to end up developing a hunchback. Eventually, even a simple bridge becomes a massive struggle because they’ve essentially "built" their own kyphosis, causing them to slouch in a way that leads to pain in the wrists, palms, and shoulders. Then there are the folks who try to "stretch" using a restricted range of motion during static, passive exercises; they are effectively shortening their own natural range of motion. On the flip side, making sudden, jerky movements can lead to the stretching or tearing of muscles, tendons, or ligaments—and if you're lucky, they won't snap entirely. Once that kind of injury occurs, it throws off your entire posture and disrupts how other muscles function through a whole chain reaction.

Unbalanced training definitely increases the risk of developing poor posture. On the flip side, training correctly can actually help fix it. It might not be a total cure-all, but it certainly can mitigate some of the fallout from bad form or improper movement. There are plenty of indicators out there, and honestly, just paying close attention can be a massive help to most casual gym-goers. You simply take a look, compare it to what looks normal, and if you're feeling unsure, go find some professional advice.

They say prevention is better than a cure, so it would be wise to assess your current state before starting a routine, then follow a targeted plan and program. Any competent trainer should be able to evaluate your posture, spine, and pelvis, but the reality is that many casual lifters tend to follow the "where's it free or cheapest" rule. As a result, they often end up with someone who ends up "scamming them for life." Spinal and knee issues account for the vast majority of injuries in recreational fitness—most commonly herniated discs and ligament tears. And all of that stems from improper technique. No matter how hard experienced trainers try to educate the general public, there will always be someone teaching the wrong way. Some people just have to learn through their own mistakes because they won't listen to anyone else's expertise. So, perhaps the better question isn't how to find a good trainer, but rather what the chances are of actually recognizing one when you see them. It's always best to trust your gut and your common sense; so far, that's proven to be the most effective solution.

That would indeed be the ideal scenario—training under professional guidance. But the question is, how many people actually have access to those kinds of training conditions?

Since there hasn't been an answer to the question regarding the videos, should I assume there aren't any? Your pages look so beautifully and professionally designed, which is why it’s a bit surprising that there isn't a single video demonstrating your actual methodology, something most other clinics across the US typically provide. I've even heard great things about you being an excellent nutritionist, so this lack of connection between the neurology and physical therapy side is a little confusing. It would be wonderful to see how you actually work; it would really help convince people of the expertise and quality behind what you do. This is just a friendly suggestion, because right now, it feels like anyone wanting to learn more has to pay a €5 entry fee just to get a glimpse.

I’ll go a bit off-topic here just to catch you on something. I follow your posts closely across various threads, but you tend to repeat yourself quite a bit. Specifically, you focus heavily on what the average recreational lifter is doing wrong, yet you almost never (or at least, I haven't noticed, aside from that one thread about proper squats) provide concrete examples of how things SHOULD be done.
Regarding stretching, I think you posted a video in Richard Cook2's thread, but those were just general tips, not specific guidance.
Regarding the bolded part—what other exercises should be included for the upper body, besides perhaps the overhead press or some other shoulder movement you didn't mention?
Feel free to answer in the training programs thread so we don't clutter this one. 🙂

Sean Bailey75 said:Forest or trees aside, my question was actually very straightforward, so I’ll rephrase it to make it even clearer:

Is there a video out there somewhere where I can see exactly what you do to correct a hunched back?

Even just one single exercise. Even Moshe used to demonstrate things this way, so there really shouldn't be any reason to keep anything hidden if it isn't a secret.

It was perfectly clear enough, though I did give you my take on that massive issue you're dealing with (even if you didn't ask for it)—which, let's face it, is holding back your progress quite a bit. You have to realize that physiotherapy and sports medicine have basically hit a wall; they need to change at their very foundation if they want to actually achieve why they exist in the first place. If they stick to the current way of looking at things, they'll just be left behind.
Walter Ross10 laid that out beautifully in the post above. But honestly, you guys know as well as I do that nobody on this forum can give specific "how-to" instructions on exact movements—it’s just too dangerous and irresponsible. No matter how hard you try to explain, draw, or link a video on how to do a perfect squat, you simply cannot learn it without someone physically present to watch your form and make real-time corrections. Otherwise, you aren't learning anything except how to cause yourself an injury. Especially when you consider how many people today suffer from diminished proprioception—which, let's be real, is basically 99% of people living in the developed West anyway.
That's why it makes zero sense, and frankly, it's not okay for me to be dropping exercises or videos here. A person won't actually feel or understand them on their own, so they won't learn a thing. They'll just end up concluding that nothing works—kind of like how people decide deep squats are "bad" for the knees because they don't understand the mechanics.

And what have you actually managed to get out of those Moshejev videos, other than claiming Mr. Kano is a plagiarist?

It’s not about secrets—it's because anyone being worked on is fully conscious and aware.

Sean Bailey75 said:Forest or trees aside, my question was actually very straightforward, so I’ll rephrase it to make it even clearer:

Is there a video out there somewhere where I can see exactly what you do to correct a hunched back?

Even just one single exercise. Even Moshe used to demonstrate things this way, so there really shouldn't be any reason to keep anything hidden if it isn't a secret.

one single move isn't going to change a thing
Fixing a hunched posture is a whole process—usually involving 3 or 4 active therapy sessions and about 30 minutes of daily somatic movements, using the insights you pick up during those actual therapy sessions.
That means roughly 5 to 6 hours of hands-on work and talking things through with a therapist, plus about 24 hours of practicing at home over the course of a month and a half.
The payoff? A straightened posture, restored proprioception, and having learned everything necessary to maintain it for life (if you want to), not to mention performing everything else much better.

So, yeah—one clip isn't going to do anything smart.

Here’s an email from a weightlifter I spoke with yesterday after just three active therapy sessions:

Hey Nicole Ross!

Greetings. Everything is going great. I'm doing the exercises every time before my workouts and so far, so good.
I feel super, and even when I really overdo it at the gym, I only feel a slight tightness... which is a massive improvement over my old neck stiffness and stuff like that. Take today, for example—I really pushed it too hard with the weights... it caught up with me. Mostly, I felt some discomfort under my left shoulder blade and thought I'd be completely locked up after the workout, but I feel excellent. Before this, after pushing myself like that, I definitely would have been dealing with a stiff, painful neck for days...

Walter Ross10 said:I’ll go a bit off-topic here just to catch you on something. I follow your posts closely across various threads, but you tend to repeat yourself quite a bit. Specifically, you focus heavily on what the average recreational lifter is doing wrong, yet you almost never (or at least, I haven't noticed, aside from that one thread about proper squats) provide concrete examples of how things SHOULD be done.
Regarding stretching, I think you posted a video in Richard Cook2's thread, but those were just general tips, not specific guidance.
Regarding the bolded part—what other exercises should be included for the upper body, besides perhaps the overhead press or some other shoulder movement you didn't mention?
Feel free to answer in the training programs thread so we don't clutter this one. 🙂

Have you perhaps considered how much time it actually takes to explain just one single exercise properly so you can be sure everyone truly understands? I noticed you caught my explanation on squats, and maybe even the bridge technique to get there, but honestly, I’ve mostly just been giving straightforward answers to questions asked in good faith. If that helped someone, then super! If it doesn't help or fails to explain everything, it's likely because explaining every single detail would take an enormous amount of time. Plus, it's hard to tell sometimes whether someone is asking maliciously or if they are genuinely interested. Who has the sense to answer every single question, including the trolls and the seriously curious ones? When I see a discussion turning into unconstructive nonsense, I usually head off to do something more productive, which is probably why there are only a few proper explanations on how to execute certain moves.

Regarding Richard Cook2, I think he’s doing a great job, and he’ll definitely reach a high level of quality over time if he fixes those elements that might injure people who follow those types of recreational internet videos. I probably wouldn't have reacted if I hadn't received a few private messages about injuries popping up among lifters who were following those or similar online video tutorials. Isn't it better to prevent an injury than to treat one? That's what they used to teach us, right? If a bit of well-meaning criticism can prevent someone from suffering a herniated disc or tearing critical ligaments, isn't that worth the effort of typing it out? Besides, most of these posts end up lost in the void of the internet anyway.

It would be difficult to say definitively which exercises are appropriate since not every lifter is built or developed the same way. However, I can mention a few things that help with understanding how to maintain proper posture for those who are well-developed. A classic example is developing balanced motor patterns. For instance, if someone is doing pull-ups, it's good for them to work their shoulders too (the overhead press is just one type of shoulder movement). If they are doing the bench press, then it's good to include at least one type of rowing (exercises like the incline row or seated row). If they are doing dips, then it's good to incorporate pulling movements, whether it's deadlifts or partner rows on the floor. If they are doing seated stretches on the left, they should do them on the right too. If they do push-ups and dips, they should work their back and bridges, and so on.

Nicole Ross said:It was perfectly clear enough, though I did give you my take on that massive issue you're dealing with (even if you didn't ask for it)—which, let's face it, is holding back your progress quite a bit. You have to realize that physiotherapy and sports medicine have basically hit a wall; they need to change at their very foundation if they want to actually achieve why they exist in the first place. If they stick to the current way of looking at things, they'll just be left behind.
Walter Ross10 laid that out beautifully in the post above. But honestly, you guys know as well as I do that nobody on this forum can give specific "how-to" instructions on exact movements—it’s just too dangerous and irresponsible. No matter how hard you try to explain, draw, or link a video on how to do a perfect squat, you simply cannot learn it without someone physically present to watch your form and make real-time corrections. Otherwise, you aren't learning anything except how to cause yourself an injury. Especially when you consider how many people today suffer from diminished proprioception—which, let's be real, is basically 99% of people living in the developed West anyway.
That's why it makes zero sense, and frankly, it's not okay for me to be dropping exercises or videos here. A person won't actually feel or understand them on their own, so they won't learn a thing. They'll just end up concluding that nothing works—kind of like how people decide deep squats are "bad" for the knees because they don't understand the mechanics.

And what have you actually managed to get out of those Moshejev videos, other than claiming Mr. Kano is a plagiarist?

It’s not about secrets—it's because anyone being worked on is fully conscious and aware.

Plagiarist? Why such harsh words? 😁 Moshe was a student; Kano was his teacher. That is a simple fact. And the reality is that the first things Moshe learned came directly from the books Kano wrote—it's not some mystical wisdom.

In the exact same vein, I believe there are plenty of recreational athletes who are perfectly capable of grasping how to perform an exercise correctly. Those who are genuinely interested will seek out the answer—they'll read the book, watch the video, or find another way to educate themselves. Anyone expecting everything to be handed to them on a silver platter via the first Google or YouTube result is truly risking missing the forest for the trees.

Because of that, I wouldn't underestimate recreational lifters; they are far sharper than you're implying with your post. The real issue is that there actually isn't much quality content out there showing proper squat technique, mainly because the internet has been flooded with "quasi-fitness" garbage. There are brilliant tutorials out there, but they are much harder to find, and you really have to dig through the digital noise to locate them. Furthermore, the main reason we don't provide explanations here is that insisting on "perfect" form can often breed resentment among those who are already training correctly, rather than it being an impossible task.

Sean Bailey75 said:Have you perhaps considered how much time it actually takes to explain just one single exercise properly so you can be sure everyone truly understands? I noticed you caught my explanation on squats, and maybe even the bridge technique to get there, but honestly, I’ve mostly just been giving straightforward answers to questions asked in good faith. If that helped someone, then super! If it doesn't help or fails to explain everything, it's likely because explaining every single detail would take an enormous amount of time. Plus, it's hard to tell sometimes whether someone is asking maliciously or if they are genuinely interested. Who has the sense to answer every single question, including the trolls and the seriously curious ones? When I see a discussion turning into unconstructive nonsense, I usually head off to do something more productive, which is probably why there are only a few proper explanations on how to execute certain moves.

Regarding Richard Cook2, I think he’s doing a great job, and he’ll definitely reach a high level of quality over time if he fixes those elements that might injure people who follow those types of recreational internet videos. I probably wouldn't have reacted if I hadn't received a few private messages about injuries popping up among lifters who were following those or similar online video tutorials. Isn't it better to prevent an injury than to treat one? That's what they used to teach us, right? If a bit of well-meaning criticism can prevent someone from suffering a herniated disc or tearing critical ligaments, isn't that worth the effort of typing it out? Besides, most of these posts end up lost in the void of the internet anyway.

It would be difficult to say definitively which exercises are appropriate since not every lifter is built or developed the same way. However, I can mention a few things that help with understanding how to maintain proper posture for those who are well-developed. A classic example is developing balanced motor patterns. For instance, if someone is doing pull-ups, it's good for them to work their shoulders too (the overhead press is just one type of shoulder movement). If they are doing the bench press, then it's good to include at least one type of rowing (exercises like the incline row or seated row). If they are doing dips, then it's good to incorporate pulling movements, whether it's deadlifts or partner rows on the floor. If they are doing seated stretches on the left, they should do them on the right too. If they do push-ups and dips, they should work their back and bridges, and so on.

Plagiarist? Why such harsh words? 😁 Moshe was a student; Kano was his teacher. That is a simple fact. And the reality is that the first things Moshe learned came directly from the books Kano wrote—it's not some mystical wisdom.

In the exact same vein, I believe there are plenty of recreational athletes who are perfectly capable of grasping how to perform an exercise correctly. Those who are genuinely interested will seek out the answer—they'll read the book, watch the video, or find another way to educate themselves. Anyone expecting everything to be handed to them on a silver platter via the first Google or YouTube result is truly risking missing the forest for the trees.

Because of that, I wouldn't underestimate recreational lifters; they are far sharper than you're implying with your post. The real issue is that there actually isn't much quality content out there showing proper squat technique, mainly because the internet has been flooded with "quasi-fitness" garbage. There are brilliant tutorials out there, but they are much harder to find, and you really have to dig through the digital noise to locate them. Furthermore, the main reason we don't provide explanations here is that insisting on "perfect" form can often breed resentment among those who are already training correctly, rather than it being an impossible task.

Communicating with you isn't easy because you tend to see malice in everything—which, to be fair, I think is somewhat justified. Personally, I'm not here to judge you, Richard Cook2, Nicole Ross, or anyone else participating in these discussions. I don't care what you all think of one another. I'm not going to idolize someone just because they're an expert, nor will I dismiss them, since neither approach serves me. I recognize that there is a massive amount I don't know, and even what I do know is subject to change. I’m being purely pragmatic here: I just want to extract whatever information helps ME, regardless of who posted it.
😁
I know how that sounds, but I honestly don't know how to explain it coldly, without letting any emotion slip in.

I really appreciate the effort you put into explaining how to properly execute a squat. I made sure to mention that myself, and I'm certain a lot of people value that kind of insight just as much as I do.
If you can't put it into words, that just makes it even clearer to me. Honestly, if I were in your shoes, I don't think I could have done it—so thanks again. But look, if you happen to stumble upon any videos or concepts online where things are actually being done the right way, please share them. For us recreational athletes, seeing a few solid examples would be far more helpful than a hundred warnings about what not to do.
That’s it. And thanks again. 🙂

Nicole Ross said:It was perfectly clear enough, though I did give you my take on that massive issue you're dealing with (even if you didn't ask for it)—which, let's face it, is holding back your progress quite a bit. You have to realize that physiotherapy and sports medicine have basically hit a wall; they need to change at their very foundation if they want to actually achieve why they exist in the first place. If they stick to the current way of looking at things, they'll just be left behind.
Walter Ross10 laid that out beautifully in the post above. But honestly, you guys know as well as I do that nobody on this forum can give specific "how-to" instructions on exact movements—it’s just too dangerous and irresponsible. No matter how hard you try to explain, draw, or link a video on how to do a perfect squat, you simply cannot learn it without someone physically present to watch your form and make real-time corrections. Otherwise, you aren't learning anything except how to cause yourself an injury. Especially when you consider how many people today suffer from diminished proprioception—which, let's be real, is basically 99% of people living in the developed West anyway.
That's why it makes zero sense, and frankly, it's not okay for me to be dropping exercises or videos here. A person won't actually feel or understand them on their own, so they won't learn a thing. They'll just end up concluding that nothing works—kind of like how people decide deep squats are "bad" for the knees because they don't understand the mechanics.

And what have you actually managed to get out of those Moshejev videos, other than claiming Mr. Kano is a plagiarist?

It’s not about secrets—it's because anyone being worked on is fully conscious and aware.

Personally, I’d love to see what this is actually about, or at least get a concrete description of the curriculum. It would be great for education and broadening our horizons—which is exactly what you mentioned in the first part, right? I'm not saying I want to sit at my computer and test everything myself, but I'd love a little preview just to get a better sense of what we're dealing with.

In my opinion, so much of this (if not everything) stems directly from the CNS. Telling someone that "stretch and strengthen" is the only valid solution isn't going to get anyone anywhere.

But look, if I can't find anything about you or your training—not your background, not the origins of the method, not the specific details or the actual research (and please, copying and pasting client emails doesn't count as proof!)—whether it's on your own site or right here... and all you do is keep insisting that people need to come to you? Then, to me, you're just one more self-proclaimed "expert" in a very well-packaged advertisement. And frankly, I won't tolerate that moving forward. We've given you far too much leeway already.

Thanks for understanding!

Sean Bailey75 said:Have you perhaps considered how much time it actually takes to explain just one single exercise properly so you can be sure everyone truly understands? I noticed you caught my explanation on squats, and maybe even the bridge technique to get there, but honestly, I’ve mostly just been giving straightforward answers to questions asked in good faith. If that helped someone, then super! If it doesn't help or fails to explain everything, it's likely because explaining every single detail would take an enormous amount of time. Plus, it's hard to tell sometimes whether someone is asking maliciously or if they are genuinely interested. Who has the sense to answer every single question, including the trolls and the seriously curious ones? When I see a discussion turning into unconstructive nonsense, I usually head off to do something more productive, which is probably why there are only a few proper explanations on how to execute certain moves.

Regarding Richard Cook2, I think he’s doing a great job, and he’ll definitely reach a high level of quality over time if he fixes those elements that might injure people who follow those types of recreational internet videos. I probably wouldn't have reacted if I hadn't received a few private messages about injuries popping up among lifters who were following those or similar online video tutorials. Isn't it better to prevent an injury than to treat one? That's what they used to teach us, right? If a bit of well-meaning criticism can prevent someone from suffering a herniated disc or tearing critical ligaments, isn't that worth the effort of typing it out? Besides, most of these posts end up lost in the void of the internet anyway.

It would be difficult to say definitively which exercises are appropriate since not every lifter is built or developed the same way. However, I can mention a few things that help with understanding how to maintain proper posture for those who are well-developed. A classic example is developing balanced motor patterns. For instance, if someone is doing pull-ups, it's good for them to work their shoulders too (the overhead press is just one type of shoulder movement). If they are doing the bench press, then it's good to include at least one type of rowing (exercises like the incline row or seated row). If they are doing dips, then it's good to incorporate pulling movements, whether it's deadlifts or partner rows on the floor. If they are doing seated stretches on the left, they should do them on the right too. If they do push-ups and dips, they should work their back and bridges, and so on.

Plagiarist? Why such harsh words? 😁 Moshe was a student; Kano was his teacher. That is a simple fact. And the reality is that the first things Moshe learned came directly from the books Kano wrote—it's not some mystical wisdom.

In the exact same vein, I believe there are plenty of recreational athletes who are perfectly capable of grasping how to perform an exercise correctly. Those who are genuinely interested will seek out the answer—they'll read the book, watch the video, or find another way to educate themselves. Anyone expecting everything to be handed to them on a silver platter via the first Google or YouTube result is truly risking missing the forest for the trees.

Because of that, I wouldn't underestimate recreational lifters; they are far sharper than you're implying with your post. The real issue is that there actually isn't much quality content out there showing proper squat technique, mainly because the internet has been flooded with "quasi-fitness" garbage. There are brilliant tutorials out there, but they are much harder to find, and you really have to dig through the digital noise to locate them. Furthermore, the main reason we don't provide explanations here is that insisting on "perfect" form can often breed resentment among those who are already training correctly, rather than it being an impossible task.

You still haven't answered my question about what you actually learned from watching his videos online. My point was to highlight the absurdity of posting videos about things that are meant to be learned through personal, hands-on contact. Anything you can pick up from watching those clips, you could probably understand much better by reading high-quality texts on the subject.

Personally, I believe any bright amateur will go looking for a solid teacher who can show them the ropes—and I think I've explained quite clearly why I feel that way.

wearyotter81 said:Personally, I’d love to see what this is actually about, or at least get a concrete description of the curriculum. It would be great for education and broadening our horizons—which is exactly what you mentioned in the first part, right? I'm not saying I want to sit at my computer and test everything myself, but I'd love a little preview just to get a better sense of what we're dealing with.

In my opinion, so much of this (if not everything) stems directly from the CNS. Telling someone that "stretch and strengthen" is the only valid solution isn't going to get anyone anywhere.

But look, if I can't find anything about you or your training—not your background, not the origins of the method, not the specific details or the actual research (and please, copying and pasting client emails doesn't count as proof!)—whether it's on your own site or right here... and all you do is keep insisting that people need to come to you? Then, to me, you're just one more self-proclaimed "expert" in a very well-packaged advertisement. And frankly, I won't tolerate that moving forward. We've given you far too much leeway already.

Thanks for understanding!

If you haven't managed to grasp everything written here—and everything I've laid out on my website—then no amount of videos or exercise descriptions is going to help you understand.
And if I thought any of this was useful, believe me, I would have put it right on my own website, which is specifically designed to educate people and help them adopt this way of thinking.

You can learn plenty—more than enough to decide whether you need this or not—and then you can move on according to your gut feeling, just like with anything else in life.

And I’m not repeating that you "have to come to me"—I’m saying that I work through personal contact. Nobody *has* to come to me if they don't want to. Since you seem to think I'm some kind of pseudo-expert anyway, there's really no point in wasting your time reading my nonsense. But hey, as a moderator, you have the right to delete everything I've written. I suspect that move would make most of the people following this thread quite happy, because they aren't learning anything useful here anyway, other than how to run a very successful marketing campaign. :-)
Thanks for understanding.

Here’s a look at some incredibly efficient, fast therapy—all for just $5
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=MDpyS2H...ature=youtu.be

🙂

Walter Ross10 said:Communicating with you isn't easy because you tend to see malice in everything—which, to be fair, I think is somewhat justified. Personally, I'm not here to judge you, Richard Cook2, Nicole Ross, or anyone else participating in these discussions. I don't care what you all think of one another. I'm not going to idolize someone just because they're an expert, nor will I dismiss them, since neither approach serves me. I recognize that there is a massive amount I don't know, and even what I do know is subject to change. I’m being purely pragmatic here: I just want to extract whatever information helps ME, regardless of who posted it.
😁
I know how that sounds, but I honestly don't know how to explain it coldly, without letting any emotion slip in.

I really appreciate the effort you put into explaining how to properly execute a squat. I made sure to mention that myself, and I'm certain a lot of people value that kind of insight just as much as I do.
If you can't put it into words, that just makes it even clearer to me. Honestly, if I were in your shoes, I don't think I could have done it—so thanks again. But look, if you happen to stumble upon any videos or concepts online where things are actually being done the right way, please share them. For us recreational athletes, seeing a few solid examples would be far more helpful than a hundred warnings about what not to do.
That’s it. And thanks again. 🙂

Communicating isn't easy with anyone, really. I've mentioned before that the internet is such a limited medium where the intended meaning often gets lost, almost like a game of 'broken telephone.' That said, I can certainly recognize good intentions. Regarding your wishes, I don't think that's being selfish; perhaps it would help you even more if you posed a specific question about what you're interested in. 🙂

You've likely noticed that whenever I offer criticism, I try to find a video or an article that illustrates the correct way more vividly. If there's a mountain of incorrect videos out there and very few—or none at all—that are correct, then it's going to be tough for interested users to stay informed via video. I'll definitely keep that in mind, as it's a great suggestion for improving understanding.

wearyotter81 said:Personally, I’d love to see what this is actually about, or at least get a concrete description of the curriculum. It would be great for education and broadening our horizons—which is exactly what you mentioned in the first part, right? I'm not saying I want to sit at my computer and test everything myself, but I'd love a little preview just to get a better sense of what we're dealing with.

In my opinion, so much of this (if not everything) stems directly from the CNS. Telling someone that "stretch and strengthen" is the only valid solution isn't going to get anyone anywhere.

But look, if I can't find anything about you or your training—not your background, not the origins of the method, not the specific details or the actual research (and please, copying and pasting client emails doesn't count as proof!)—whether it's on your own site or right here... and all you do is keep insisting that people need to come to you? Then, to me, you're just one more self-proclaimed "expert" in a very well-packaged advertisement. And frankly, I won't tolerate that moving forward. We've given you far too much leeway already.

Thanks for understanding!

At the end of the 19th century, the Jiu Jitsu master Jigoro Kano from Japan created a training system that incorporated all the knowledge from the East (Japan/China), the Sokol movement from Central Europe (the Austrian Empire, Scandinavia), and the West (England, France, and the USA) regarding wrestling, physical movement, and injury prevention during exercise. He operated on the premise that only doctors truly know which positions and movements are safe for both health and combat, so his system allows for safe training well into old age. He created a synthesis of all those exercises that aid in therapeutic recovery for convalescents (people recovering from injuries who are starting to train again to continue their physical and health progress). He took all these meticulously studied exercises, approved by top Japanese doctors, and included them in the warm-up for Jiu Jitsu training, calling them gymnastics modeled after the Sokol movement. At the turn of the 20th century, he was requested by the Emperor to educate the general population through schools, and he wrote several books on the subject. In the early 1900s, these ideas began to spread through the Sokol movement in Central Europe, marking the very early beginnings of modern physical gymnastics and physical therapy.

Back in the 1930s, Moshe Feldenkrais tore his knee playing soccer, which sent him on a mission to find better ways to train while dealing with an injury. As a young man, he poured over the writings of Jigoro Kano, eventually studying his work so intensely that he sought out a direct connection. His persistence paid off—he became one of Kano's students and ended up popularizing Judo in France, where he had relocated. When Kano passed away in the late thirties, Moshe struggled to find suitable successors or teachers to carry the torch. Then war broke out, and as a Jew, he had to flee France. Even though he managed to write a few books about unarmed combat inspired by Kano, I wouldn't exactly recommend them. The specialized gymnastics he used as a warm-up for Judo training remains incredibly helpful for many today; it relies on very slow, incremental progress that is perfectly suited for any age or fitness level, even those recovering from injuries. By applying this type of training to people facing health challenges, he helped them regain strength and simply feel better. While he remained active in Judo through the fifties, he eventually transitioned entirely into his specialized, slow-motion movement work. Essentially, Kano envisioned a training method where movements are performed starting from the smallest possible amplitude, gradually increasing speed and range only as the individual's body allows. This way, anyone can achieve a full range of motion and improve their strength and speed, moving beyond mere recovery toward genuine athletic advancement.

Here is a classic example of how Moshe used to work back when he was still active in Judo, before he put on a bit of extra weight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_ngRnClPuM
For those interested in the history of Judo practice, you can see a rare glimpse of training from an era when Judo and Jiu Jitsu still permitted leg strikes (modern competitive and Olympic Judo has since stripped away both leg and hand strikes).

As he aged, he moved away from demonstrating physical exercises and spent more time lecturing. This shift took a toll on his posture; personally, I’ve gained some weight myself and developed kyphosis and general stiffness, so I can relate.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1bjUmxkf5Q
His style and teaching methods shifted completely—lots of talking and very little actual movement. Some of his students began to "philosophize" even more, and the "learning" started to devolve into slowing down almost every movement just to make it accessible for seniors. Following his death, it has become increasingly difficult to find the original teachings or the specific movements he learned directly from Kano in the 1930s. He began introducing semi-exercises, but even his own core teachings were eventually "watered down" by his subsequent students. That said, this doesn't diminish his massive contribution to modern physical therapy or the spread of the idea of using Judo-based movements to improve motor skills and posture. His books vary wildly in quality; some are excellent, like the 1952 *Higher Judo* or the 1967 *Improving The Ability to Perform*, which are great for seeing the actual exercises. Others might not be as helpful, often leaning more toward anecdotes and analogies than practical movement.

To give you an idea of what happens after decades of dilution: here is how a single segment from that first video gets stretched out into an eleven-minute session:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PT6tNq4krhc

In other words, more recent iterations of Feldenkrais training suffer from being less effective and less time-efficient than Moshe's original methodology. It is highly likely that both approaches yield results, but you would probably find that following the original methods leads to recovery much faster than the trademarked Feldenkrais™ approach.

Nicole Ross said:You still haven't answered my question about what you actually learned from watching his videos online. My point was to highlight the absurdity of posting videos about things that are meant to be learned through personal, hands-on contact. Anything you can pick up from watching those clips, you could probably understand much better by reading high-quality texts on the subject.

Personally, I believe any bright amateur will go looking for a solid teacher who can show them the ropes—and I think I've explained quite clearly why I feel that way.

It feels like you’re underestimating what others know about Feldenkrais. Your dismissal of his role in developing Judo in France is exactly why I asked what kind of teaching you actually practice based on Feldenkrais methods. Honestly, a single video of yours, modeled after the many practitioners worldwide who work with Feldenkrais techniques, would be enough to demonstrate your work. As it stands, this approach doesn't make much sense because people end up feeling like they’re buying a "pig in a poke." Even by omitting videos, you’re making a statement; if everyone else in this field provides video demonstrations and you don't, that says something in itself.

I am certainly not disparaging your work; quite the opposite. I truly wish you were one of those practitioners following the proper way to correct posture, just as Feldenkrais originally taught people while he was training in Judo and maintained excellent posture himself. After he stopped training Judo, his posture slumped significantly. It wasn't due to age, but simply muscle atrophy in the back from lack of training, regardless of how large the muscle volume might have been. There are Judo practitioners and gymnasts even in their 80s who still train today and maintain perfect posture.

Take, for example, this lady who is nearly 90 and still practicing:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NZ6C6wGpAE
You can clearly see the proper posture of record-holder Johanna Quaas. The types of exercises once used in JJ, Judo, and gymnastics—which some people still practice today—definitely help maintain correct posture well into old age, prevent injuries, and keep muscle tone intact.

In my opinion, advertising isn't bad at all if it stays on topic. If your video helps correct posture and slouching, then it could actually attract more clients to you, right? You just need to inform people properly. That way, it's a win-win: it benefits them (because you can fix their posture) and it benefits you (because people will talk you up as a movement specialist rather than just a nutritionist). Ultimately, the choice is yours regarding how much of your skill in correcting posture you want to showcase. It's for you to decide, not anyone else.

Look, I don't work using the Feldenkrais Method. If you actually read what I write, you’d realize my approach is active—the client is doing almost all the heavy lifting here. If you truly understood how the Feldenkrais way works, you’d know it's a passive process. It should be obvious from that alone that they aren't the same thing. I'm familiar with his work, and while I don't agree with your take on him, that doesn't mean I'm practicing his method.
And let me say it again: I’m not posting this here to run an ad—I don't need the business. I'm here because I want people to start perceiving themselves differently. I want them to realize that the key to most of their pain and struggles lies in changing their own CNS, rather than relying on doctors, manipulative therapies, or trainers who try to force the body into shape without ever addressing the CNS itself.
That kind of stuff just doesn't work in the long run. But hey, we live in an era of instant fixes and shortcuts, so I suppose the "real path" isn't really what most people are looking for anyway.
Though, some people—more and more, actually—are starting to realize that the classic approach just leads to a dead end.
So, I’m writing this to point out that there is another way. I actually teach a version of this myself, which I call differentiation, but there are plenty of other methods out there too—so there’s something for everyone.

Sean Bailey75 said:Communicating isn't easy with anyone, really. I've mentioned before that the internet is such a limited medium where the intended meaning often gets lost, almost like a game of 'broken telephone.' That said, I can certainly recognize good intentions. Regarding your wishes, I don't think that's being selfish; perhaps it would help you even more if you posed a specific question about what you're interested in. 🙂

You've likely noticed that whenever I offer criticism, I try to find a video or an article that illustrates the correct way more vividly. If there's a mountain of incorrect videos out there and very few—or none at all—that are correct, then it's going to be tough for interested users to stay informed via video. I'll definitely keep that in mind, as it's a great suggestion for improving understanding.

At the end of the 19th century, the Jiu Jitsu master Jigoro Kano from Japan created a training system that incorporated all the knowledge from the East (Japan/China), the Sokol movement from Central Europe (the Austrian Empire, Scandinavia), and the West (England, France, and the USA) regarding wrestling, physical movement, and injury prevention during exercise. He operated on the premise that only doctors truly know which positions and movements are safe for both health and combat, so his system allows for safe training well into old age. He created a synthesis of all those exercises that aid in therapeutic recovery for convalescents (people recovering from injuries who are starting to train again to continue their physical and health progress). He took all these meticulously studied exercises, approved by top Japanese doctors, and included them in the warm-up for Jiu Jitsu training, calling them gymnastics modeled after the Sokol movement. At the turn of the 20th century, he was requested by the Emperor to educate the general population through schools, and he wrote several books on the subject. In the early 1900s, these ideas began to spread through the Sokol movement in Central Europe, marking the very early beginnings of modern physical gymnastics and physical therapy.

Back in the 1930s, Moshe Feldenkrais tore his knee playing soccer, which sent him on a mission to find better ways to train while dealing with an injury. As a young man, he poured over the writings of Jigoro Kano, eventually studying his work so intensely that he sought out a direct connection. His persistence paid off—he became one of Kano's students and ended up popularizing Judo in France, where he had relocated. When Kano passed away in the late thirties, Moshe struggled to find suitable successors or teachers to carry the torch. Then war broke out, and as a Jew, he had to flee France. Even though he managed to write a few books about unarmed combat inspired by Kano, I wouldn't exactly recommend them. The specialized gymnastics he used as a warm-up for Judo training remains incredibly helpful for many today; it relies on very slow, incremental progress that is perfectly suited for any age or fitness level, even those recovering from injuries. By applying this type of training to people facing health challenges, he helped them regain strength and simply feel better. While he remained active in Judo through the fifties, he eventually transitioned entirely into his specialized, slow-motion movement work. Essentially, Kano envisioned a training method where movements are performed starting from the smallest possible amplitude, gradually increasing speed and range only as the individual's body allows. This way, anyone can achieve a full range of motion and improve their strength and speed, moving beyond mere recovery toward genuine athletic advancement.

Here is a classic example of how Moshe used to work back when he was still active in Judo, before he put on a bit of extra weight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_ngRnClPuM
For those interested in the history of Judo practice, you can see a rare glimpse of training from an era when Judo and Jiu Jitsu still permitted leg strikes (modern competitive and Olympic Judo has since stripped away both leg and hand strikes).

As he aged, he moved away from demonstrating physical exercises and spent more time lecturing. This shift took a toll on his posture; personally, I’ve gained some weight myself and developed kyphosis and general stiffness, so I can relate.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1bjUmxkf5Q
His style and teaching methods shifted completely—lots of talking and very little actual movement. Some of his students began to "philosophize" even more, and the "learning" started to devolve into slowing down almost every movement just to make it accessible for seniors. Following his death, it has become increasingly difficult to find the original teachings or the specific movements he learned directly from Kano in the 1930s. He began introducing semi-exercises, but even his own core teachings were eventually "watered down" by his subsequent students. That said, this doesn't diminish his massive contribution to modern physical therapy or the spread of the idea of using Judo-based movements to improve motor skills and posture. His books vary wildly in quality; some are excellent, like the 1952 *Higher Judo* or the 1967 *Improving The Ability to Perform*, which are great for seeing the actual exercises. Others might not be as helpful, often leaning more toward anecdotes and analogies than practical movement.

To give you an idea of what happens after decades of dilution: here is how a single segment from that first video gets stretched out into an eleven-minute session:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PT6tNq4krhc

In other words, more recent iterations of Feldenkrais training suffer from being less effective and less time-efficient than Moshe's original methodology. It is highly likely that both approaches yield results, but you would probably find that following the original methods leads to recovery much faster than the trademarked Feldenkrais™ approach.

It feels like you’re underestimating what others know about Feldenkrais. Your dismissal of his role in developing Judo in France is exactly why I asked what kind of teaching you actually practice based on Feldenkrais methods. Honestly, a single video of yours, modeled after the many practitioners worldwide who work with Feldenkrais techniques, would be enough to demonstrate your work. As it stands, this approach doesn't make much sense because people end up feeling like they’re buying a "pig in a poke." Even by omitting videos, you’re making a statement; if everyone else in this field provides video demonstrations and you don't, that says something in itself.

I am certainly not disparaging your work; quite the opposite. I truly wish you were one of those practitioners following the proper way to correct posture, just as Feldenkrais originally taught people while he was training in Judo and maintained excellent posture himself. After he stopped training Judo, his posture slumped significantly. It wasn't due to age, but simply muscle atrophy in the back from lack of training, regardless of how large the muscle volume might have been. There are Judo practitioners and gymnasts even in their 80s who still train today and maintain perfect posture.

Take, for example, this lady who is nearly 90 and still practicing:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NZ6C6wGpAE
You can clearly see the proper posture of record-holder Johanna Quaas. The types of exercises once used in JJ, Judo, and gymnastics—which some people still practice today—definitely help maintain correct posture well into old age, prevent injuries, and keep muscle tone intact.

In my opinion, advertising isn't bad at all if it stays on topic. If your video helps correct posture and slouching, then it could actually attract more clients to you, right? You just need to inform people properly. That way, it's a win-win: it benefits them (because you can fix their posture) and it benefits you (because people will talk you up as a movement specialist rather than just a nutritionist). Ultimately, the choice is yours regarding how much of your skill in correcting posture you want to showcase. It's for you to decide, not anyone else.

Look, there is a lot I'm curious about, but I don't want to overwhelm people, and besides, it would just be off-topic here. I know the ratio of good videos to bad ones is slim—I see it myself all over YouTube—but my thought was that when you stumble upon something decent, you should share it.
I was interested in that advice regarding upper body development you gave me in your previous post. Thanks for that. 🙂

Nicole Ross said:Look, I don't work using the Feldenkrais Method. If you actually read what I write, you’d realize my approach is active—the client is doing almost all the heavy lifting here. If you truly understood how the Feldenkrais way works, you’d know it's a passive process. It should be obvious from that alone that they aren't the same thing. I'm familiar with his work, and while I don't agree with your take on him, that doesn't mean I'm practicing his method.
And let me say it again: I’m not posting this here to run an ad—I don't need the business. I'm here because I want people to start perceiving themselves differently. I want them to realize that the key to most of their pain and struggles lies in changing their own CNS, rather than relying on doctors, manipulative therapies, or trainers who try to force the body into shape without ever addressing the CNS itself.
That kind of stuff just doesn't work in the long run. But hey, we live in an era of instant fixes and shortcuts, so I suppose the "real path" isn't really what most people are looking for anyway.
Though, some people—more and more, actually—are starting to realize that the classic approach just leads to a dead end.
So, I’m writing this to point out that there is another way. I actually teach a version of this myself, which I call differentiation, but there are plenty of other methods out there too—so there’s something for everyone.

So, what exactly do you do? How do you go about fixing a hunched back?

A classic approach means someone gets educated, studies, and learns; after that, they spend years working under a trainer, teacher, or mentor, and only after even more years do they begin to act independently. Some call it a school, some call it college, some call it an academy, or just training, but most principles are rooted in science. I've heard you are a good nutritionist, so I assume you finished a degree or something similar. If you aren't working via the Feldenkrais method that your advocate here mentioned, where did this knowledge or qualification regarding posture correction come from?

This is getting a bit concerning because "differentiation" is a term that already exists and signifies something entirely different in science. It might have been understandable if you called it the Nicole Ross method if you arrived at these conclusions independently—though even then, you'd risk being compared to the methods of Ante Pavlovic. But reading you now, it seems you've described what your method *isn't*, yet you haven't shown what the method actually *IS* or where this wisdom originates. Would you be so kind as to briefly describe what you do, how you conduct the exercises, and where your qualifications come from?

Just so it makes sense to me, since it feels like we aren't understanding one another. And likely, there are others curious about this too, wanting to know specifically what YOUR differentiation entails and how it helps correct posture.