Interview with Jenn Pilotti

Jenn Pilotti just wrote a new book called Spinal Intelligence! It’s her 4th book, to be precise, and, like a crazy person, she edited it all by herself. We recorded this podcast the day after her book was released, and I' am really looking forward to learning some of her insights about the spine (some common misconceptions), posture, and how the body is supposed to move based on her decades of experience and research. I wanted to speak with Jenn because she is a like-minded movement detective that I think has a lovely, wholesome, intelligent approach to movement education. Jenn takes a client-centered approach to movement coaching and personal training, meaning that she values having a tool-kit of movement approaches that helps her to meet her clients where they are at, whether they need a movement practice to help them get out of their busy minds and connect with their bodies to feel more at peace, or they want to improve their fitness while also managing frustrating niggles. Her academic credentials in exercise science, kinesiology, and movement theory, combined with her love of movement exploration and real-life experience working with bodies of all types and abilities make her an excellent person to interview. I wanted to learn about her approach to working with bodies, her journey with her own body and what worked for her, and get an insight into what people will learn form her latest book.In our conversation, Jenn and I discuss:* Her new book, Spinal Intelligence (which you can buy HERE)* Her position lecturing on mindfulness for the US Navy* What Jenn’s learned about the intersections between mental health and movement* Her journey overcoming chronic pain, and what helped her the most* Myths about the spine* Why you don’t need to worry about “Tech Neck”* A better way to think about improving your posture than just trying to stand up straighter* Jenn’s opinion about toe spacers, should you use them?* Our experience studying with the Postural Restoration Institute* The origins of Vladimir Janda’s upper and lower cross syndromes* The importance of “neutral spine”* A common myth about strength trainingAnd much more. I learned a lot in our conversation and felt like I was speaking with a kindred spirit. I hope you enjoy this interview with Jenn Pilotti, and if you want to learn more, I hope you’ll check out her new book (and any of her three previous ones).Where to find Jenn online:Jenn’s Website: www.jennpilotti.com/Instagram: @jenn_pilottiSubstack: Jenn Pilotti Spinal Intelligence book: www.jennpilotti.com/booksHere’s a little more about Jenn PilottiJenn Pilotti, M.S., takes a comprehensive, client-focused approach to fitness that emphasizes movement quality, holistic well-being, and the integration of mind and body. She integrates principles from various disciplines such as strength training, flexibility, dance, parkour, yoga, and mindfulness to create fitness programs that facilitate a mind-body connection.Jenn has a strong educational foundation in exercise science, kinesiology, and movement theory, which informs her practice. She stays updated with the latest research and trends in the fitness industry to provide evidence-based training methods.She takes a client-centered approach in her work, taking into account each person’s goals and needs. Her diverse experience coaching and teaching allow her to take a creative lens when designing classes and programs.In addition to her work with private clients, Jenn teaches workshops internationally, leads corporate wellness programs, and hosts two fitness and movement podcasts. She also teaches mindfulness for the US Navy Leadership Seminar.Jenn is an avid learner and mover. She regularly participates in movement workshops and has a daily movement practice.Thanks for reading Movement Detectivery! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. Get full access to Movement Detectivery at monvolkmar.substack.com/subscribe