Let Me Introduce You: Tales of movement Podcast

Season 3, Episode 2 of Let Me Introduce You dives into the boxes we put movement (and ourselves) in—performance, aesthetics, “I just like to move,” and health. We tease apart how these categories can help, how they can trap us, and why the best training plan might simply be… to play.In this one, Jen admits she’s more “flip upside down” than “athlete,” and Adarian counters that athletics is just movement—an expression like dance. We talk access (why people do what they can reach), competition (maybe it’s just the desire to be noticed), and why gyms should feel like playgrounds instead of rule books. Also inside: the origin story of Adarian’s simple fitness app idea, and Jen’s quick tip about using the heel and pelvis to make step-ups click.Takeaway: stop pigeonholing yourself. Walk into the gym and explore. Try the barbell. Toss the med ball. Mess up. Learn. Repeat. Movement can be free—and fun.Hit play, share with a friend who’s stuck in a “program or bust” mindset, and tell us what category you’ve outgrown. 🎧P.S. If you’re loving the show, subscribe and leave a quick note—yes, we read them! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss disillusionment in the training and coaching industry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

We're back with a fresh episode of Let Me Introduce You, and this time, we're talking about something that happens to everyone—but most of us are taught to avoid at all costs: falling.Falling is more than a mishap. It’s an essential element of movement.In this episode, we (Jenn and Adarian) dive headfirst into why falling is foundational to athleticism, fluidity, and everyday movement. From running to breakdancing, from judo to jumping jacks, we explore how falling initiates action, redirects momentum, and enhances performance when understood—not feared.Here are a few highlights:* What falling really is: It’s not just leaning forward or collapsing. True falling involves a loss of ground contact, a shift in the torso, and often—if you’re moving well—an intentional interception by a limb.* The role of the torso: Forget the hips. It’s the torso that truly initiates forward movement. Whether you're sprinting like a cheetah or dancing on one hand, torso control determines flow.* Running, reimagined: We talk about how the torso’s fall drives sprinting, the misunderstood role of the heel strike, and how the swing leg helps the stance leg.* Falling in sport and art: Martial artists, dancers, and top athletes don’t resist the fall—they embrace and direct it.* Fall prevention tips: Adarian shares the number one fall prevention strategy (hint: it’s not shuffling your feet).* Jenn’s clinic revelations: What changed when Jenn stopped “stepping on oranges” and started yawing her femurs? She went from vertical bounce to horizontal zoom—and learned a thing or two about how fast she could go.We even touch on reflexes, stumble recovery, explosive movements like push-ups and throws, and why learning how to fall might be the most valuable skill you can develop.We’ll return to this topic in an upcoming Part Two, because there’s still so much more to explore—including how falling relates to different kinds of rotation, injury risk, and agility in later life.As always, thank you for listening. And remember:Learn to fall. Move better. Fall less.🎧 Listen to the episode here (insert podcast link)—Events Mentioned:* July: SoCal/LA Plannar Plate Workshop* September: Seattle—likely with a part two on falling!* January: Vegas* February: Florida (TBD)* Website is back onlineGot questions or thoughts about falling, movement, or upcoming events? Reply to this post or hit us up on social. And if you haven’t yet, grab a copy of Let Me Introduce You—the book that started it all.—Jenn & Adarian This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In one of the most profound and eye-opening episodes of Let Me Introduce You, Adarian Barr shares the story of his literal return from the edge—surviving eight heart restarts and 45 minutes of chest compressions after a massive cardiac arrest. What follows is an intimate, thoughtful exploration of rehabilitating after death, what it means to truly understand the system of the body, and how conventional wisdom often misses the mark.🎙️ This Episode Covers:* Why core strength is overrated (and what really matters)* Recovery through walking, coordination, and the Helix Point system* Lessons from the emergency room and blood work that everyone should know* The power and agility of sumo wrestlers—and what they reveal about real athleticism* Eating for the system versus eating in isolation* Why “specialists” miss the bigger picture of health, rehab, and movement💡 Big Takeaways:* Movement matters—but not in the way you’ve been taught.* Systems thinking can save your life—literally.* Blood work isn’t just for the sick—it’s a baseline everyone should track.📅 Upcoming: Adarian and Jenn will be teaching in Seattle June 6–7 and Adarian is teaching in L.A. in July. Also, the long-awaited Helix Point is coming this January!🎧 Listen now to gain insight on life, recovery, and redefining what it means to move well—even after the unthinkable. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this lively and thought-provoking episode of Let Me Introduce You, Jenn and Adarian dive deep into the world of parlor tricks—those flashy, entertaining feats that look like athletic prowess but often hinge on illusion and sleight of hand. From flipping snowmobiles to manipulating Persian clubs, they explore the thin line between true strength and well-rehearsed showmanship.You’ll hear why gimmicks can be both amusing and misleading, how confidence (not always ability) is often what’s being sold, and why some so-called assessments in fitness may reveal more about the assessor than the assessed. The duo reflects on their own movement discoveries—from post-hospital recovery insights to the curious impact of imagining squishing a Satsuma orange while running.As always, Jenn and Adarian mix humor, insight, and real-world wisdom to question the norms of fitness culture. Whether you're into movement science or just love a good story, this episode will leave you thinking twice about what you're watching—and why you’re impressed.Questions? Comments? Just hit reply.✨ Bonus: Learn about their upcoming Seattle events focused on feet, collisions, and hands—and how to ditch the tricks in favor of substance.Friday, June 6 at Fuelhouse in Seattle: Strong Foundations: The role of feet in performanceSaturday, June 7 at Woodland Park in Seattle: Hands On: Exploring the role of the hands in human movement: a 3 hour outdoor clinic This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

🏃‍♀️ "Running Tall" Might Be Running You Into TroubleSeason 2, Episode 9 — Let Me Introduce You PodcastIn this episode, I got to pick the topic—which means Adarian already knows what’s coming. And this week, we dug into something that’s been showing up with a couple of my clients lately: the concept of "running tall."Spoiler: it's not doing them any favors.💡 Why "Running Tall" Isn't the Gold StandardTwo of my recent clients—strong, fit runners with great cardiovascular capacity—came to me with leg injuries. Both mentioned they had been taught to run with an upright posture. Why? Because "the internet said so." And that, dear reader, is how myths get legs (pun intended).Adarian and I broke down where this idea likely came from: visual bias. Coaches, trainers, and the fitness industry at large often teach from what looks right, not necessarily what works best. And standing tall while you move? It might look clean, but it leads to more abrupt collisions with the ground.🧠 Collision Management: The Missing Piece in Movement EducationWhat if the way your body handles impact—the collision—is the real key to smoother, injury-free movement?This is where Adarian dropped a critical concept: time stretch. A lowered torso helps you extend the duration of a collision, making it less jarring. When you're too upright, every step is a mini-whiplash. Joints, tissues, and the nervous system absorb that force differently—and not in a good way.It's not about absorbing impact as much as it’s about spreading it out over time.🏋️‍♀️ The Upright Epidemic in ExerciseThis tendency to hold the torso high doesn’t just show up in running. It’s everywhere—from bicep curls to lunges to cable machines. We’re so accustomed to moving with a “high torso” that we forget how much more efficient—and comfortable—movement becomes when we lower it.Adarian made a great analogy: imagine if exercise paid by the rep. You’d likely choose the position that lets you do more quality reps, not the one that feels hardest. Lowering the torso often allows you to produce more movement with less strain. That’s better ROI for your body.🎤 What Else We Covered* The false promise of posture correction and "form fixes" that end up creating more problems* Why even studies are starting to catch up to what experience has been telling us for years* How common movement cues often come from aesthetics, not effectiveness* A quick detour into shoulder mobility, elbow rotation, and the importance of fluid (viscoelastic) movement📍 Takeaways You Can Use Today* Rethink “posture”: Upright isn’t always optimal—especially for movement. Consider where your torso is, not just how your body looks.* Check your stairs game: Lean forward slightly when descending. You might be shocked how much it helps knee pain.* Lower for longevity: In everything from skipping to lifting to dancing, a low torso lets your body stretch collisions and move more naturally.* Movement isn't fancy: We have a limited number of foundational movement patterns. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to move well.🗓️ Upcoming EventsWe’re hitting the road!* Seattle: June 6–7* Los Angeles: July 18–20And yes, we’re still working on that next book, plus a new webinar is on the horizon.🎧 Listen NowIf you've ever struggled with running form, felt pain during simple movements, or just want to better understand how the body really works—this episode is for you.Until next time,JennP.S. Got questions? Thoughts? A weird running story? Hit me up—yes, me! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this week’s episode of Let Me Introduce You, we dive into the murky waters of the unknown—those tricky places where assumed knowledge fails and curiosity is the only compass.Adarian kicks things off with an idea Jen hasn’t heard yet (always a great start). Together, they unpack the way we often mistake what we see for how it works. From elbow flexion to running posture, calf raises to fastball grips, the conversation explores how training has become obsessed with copying shapes and isolated muscles instead of seeking real understanding.Why haven’t we broken long-standing athletic records despite being stronger, faster, and better fueled? Why do we train the same drills and still see wildly different results? Maybe we’re all chasing visuals—and missing the mechanics.We also nerd out on sesamoid bones, viscoelastic properties, and how warming up might really just be about syncing flows in the body.This one’s full of “wait...what?” moments and friendly side-eye at the fitness industry's sacred cows. If you’ve ever wondered why doing the thing doesn’t get you the result, this one’s for you.🎧 Listen to Season 2, Episode 8: “Unknowns”📘 Plus, we’ve got events, product launches (hello, A-bar and gloves), and the first chapter of the running book coming soon—because the unknowns are too good not to explore.Until next time,Jen & Adarian This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

Hello! We're back with Season 2, Episode 7 of Let Me Introduce You to the Podcast! (Or maybe it’s Episode 8… don’t quote us on that — we’re not great at counting.)This week, Jenn picked the topic — and it’s a spicy one: What’s wrong with the barbell? 🤨From deadlifts and ego lifting to asymmetry, slings, and squirrels (yep, squirrels), Jenn and Adarian go deep on why the barbell might not be the gold standard it’s cracked up to be. They unpack its limitations, the allure of lifting heavy, and how we confuse strength with health, athleticism, and identity.Some highlights:* Why the barbell may not match human movement patterns* The role of ego and image in strength culture* Real-life strength vs. gym metrics (wait ‘til you hear the refrigerator story)* Why movement ≠ exercise ≠ athleticism* The truth about carryover to sport (and why being strong doesn’t mean being fast)Oh — and Jenn finally felt what the book is all about when her foot snapped off the ground mid-run. It’s all about the fall.🌀 Something to ponder — when did you pull off something strong that mattered?Until next time,Jenn and AdarianP.S. The book is coming. Yes, really. June’s about to get exciting.P.P.S We are teaching an online workshop Thursday, April 10 on rotations and movement dysfunction. You should totally check it out, even if it’s just to read the description. While you are on the website, you can find out more about the June 6 event in Seattle. If you have any interest in how your feet function in movement, sport, and performance, this will be good. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

Have you ever watched someone believe something so obviously wrong that you couldn’t help but shake your head? That’s the essence of They Ate Stupid, the latest episode of Let Me Introduce You.Why “They Ate Stupid”?If you’ve noticed, Adarian recently changed his Instagram handle to @theyatestupid—but why? In this episode, we break down the reasoning behind it and how it applies to the world of movement, fitness, and sports training. The phrase isn’t about calling people stupid, but rather pointing out how often bad information is served up and willingly consumed.Think about it:* If someone keeps telling you that something is “good for you,” do you ever stop to question it?* If the research itself contradicts its own findings (as seen in hamstring injury studies), why do people still blindly follow it?* Why do people train compensations instead of efficient movement patterns?The Buffet of Bad InformationWe discuss how social media has become an all-you-can-eat buffet of nonsense, where algorithms reinforce misinformation, and thousands of people like it without thinking critically. Some key takeaways from this episode:✅ Just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s correct.✅ Movement principles exist for a reason—yet many ignore them in favor of gimmicks.✅ Fear-based training (like hamstring “prevention” programs) often does little to prevent actual injuries.✅ If you’re doing a movement that mimics a dysfunction, you’re training a dysfunction.What Did We Learn This Week?* Jenn took a deep dive into hamstring research and found that despite all the injury prevention programs, hamstring injuries have not decreased. So, what’s the point?* Adarian explored the latest virtual reality headsets and noticed something critical: they remove your peripheral vision, isolating you from the real world. Sound familiar? That’s exactly what’s happening in the movement space—people are getting locked into a narrow view of training while missing the bigger picture.Upcoming Events📍 Seattle Workshop – June 6Adarian will be back on the road, bringing insights and hands-on coaching to Seattle. Expect fresh concepts and a real approach to movement—not the usual nonsense.Final ThoughtsBad information is everywhere, but you don’t have to eat it. Be discerning. Question everything. And most importantly—stop training dysfunction!Listen to the full episode here: [Insert Podcast Link]Until next time,Jenn & Adarian This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode of Let Me Introduce You, Adarian and Jen dive into the differences between open and closed environments and how they impact athletic training and performance.A closed environment is predictable and controlled—think of a gym setting, where conditions remain constant. There's no unexpected wind, rain, or an opponent coming at you. In contrast, an open environment introduces unpredictability—external factors like moving opponents, variable surfaces, and changing conditions that athletes must constantly adapt to.The discussion highlights a critical flaw in many training programs: preparing for open-environment sports using closed-environment methods. While controlled settings allow for skill development, they fail to replicate the unpredictable nature of real competition. No amount of sterile drills or simulated exercises can fully prepare an athlete for what happens in a live game. The best way to get better in an open environment? Experience it.Other key takeaways:✅ Practicing in a controlled environment doesn’t translate to real-game unpredictability.✅ Many athletes unknowingly train compensations rather than functional movement.✅ The best performers spend the bulk of their time in open environments, not just refining skills but also adapting to real-world conditions.The conversation also touches on common training misconceptions, the limitations of closed-environment simulations, and why experience is the best teacher when it comes to handling unexpected challenges in sports.Upcoming Events & News📍 Seattle Workshop – June 6th – Mark your calendars!📖 The Book is Coming! – Stay tuned for updates on our latest project.🔊 Catch the full episode for more insights on training smarter, not just harder. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In Season 2, Episode 5 of the Let Me Introduce You podcast, Jenn and Adarian dive into one of the most widely discussed—and misunderstood—topics in running: pushing the foot into the ground. From internet headlines promoting calf raises and jumping drills to the pervasive use of force plates and the force-velocity curve, they break down what’s accurate, what’s not, and why so many coaching cues miss the mark.Adarian reveals the critical role of joints, levers, and rotation in movement, while Jen highlights practical applications for athletes of all levels. They explore why focusing on "pushing harder into the ground" can be counterproductive and instead discuss how proper understanding of joint mechanics can improve efficiency and speed. Whether you're a coach, runner, or movement enthusiast, this episode will challenge conventional wisdom and provide actionable insights into training smarter—not harder.Plus, they preview their upcoming event in Las Vegas, with the promise of new ideas, fresh perspectives, and maybe even a podcast roundtable. Don’t miss this engaging and informative episode! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, hosts Jen and Adarian explore the concept of "dysfunctional coaching" as they close out 2024. They define dysfunctional coaching as focusing on perceived flaws or "dysfunctions" rather than coaching the individual and their unique movement patterns. The discussion highlights how some coaches prioritize aesthetics or arbitrary standards over actual performance, often labeling natural variations in movement as dysfunctions that require fixing.Key topics include:* The distinction between actual dysfunction (e.g., an injury) and perceived dysfunction (e.g., a foot turning out during movement).* Examples of athletes excelling despite having unconventional techniques or movement patterns, such as world record holders with non-traditional running styles.* The pitfalls of coaching based on visual appearance rather than understanding the mechanics of movement and performance.* Contrasting the approach in Paralympic coaching, where the individual is coached as they are, with other sports where athletes are expected to conform to arbitrary norms.* The impact of assessments and tests, such as the overhead squat or sit-and-reach test, which often create unnecessary labels of dysfunction without improving performance.Jen and Adarian also reflect on their personal learning experiences, such as quad isometric exercises and asymmetrical single-arm hanging techniques, emphasizing the value of exploring movement without fear of judgment. They conclude by looking ahead to exciting events in 2025, including live courses, conferences in Las Vegas and Seattle, and the anticipated release of their book.Listeners are encouraged to prioritize coaching individuals over rigid norms, understand the nuances of movement, and embrace exploration and curiosity in athletic development. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In Season 2, Episode 2 of Let Me Introduce You, Jen and Adarian dive into the concept of asymmetry in movement and biomechanics. They explore the functional differences between the body’s two sides, emphasizing how these variations work together to enhance movement and survival. From defining asymmetry and addressing common misconceptions, to discussing practical applications in sports like sprinting and hurdling, this episode highlights why our natural asymmetry is essential, not a flaw to be fixed. Jen and Adarian also share insights from their recent webinar and preview upcoming events in Las Vegas, Seattle, and The Hague.Papers referenced:Handedness in Animals and PlantsKinematic and muscle force asymmetry in healthy runners: How do different methods measure up?Asymmetry in sprinting: An insight into sub-10 and sub-11 s men and women sprintersInternal and External Oblique Muscle Asymmetry in Sprint Hurdlers and Sprinters: A Cross-Sectional Study This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

Welcome back to Let Me Introduce You! After a well-deserved break, Jen and Adarian are back with Season 2, diving right into a fascinating topic: Q Angles. Picking up where Season 1 left off, this episode revisits the concept of Q Angles—the angles formed between the quadriceps and patella tendon—and explores their impact on balance, stability, and movement.The hosts discuss:* Misconceptions about Q Angles and why they’re not a weak point.* How Q Angles influence the ankle, knee, and overall biomechanics.* Practical insights for athletes, dancers, and everyday movement.* The role of complete circles and spirals in enhancing stability and performance.Plus, Jen and Adarian share what they’ve learned this week (hint: it involves humming and sensation) and tease upcoming events, including clinics in Las Vegas, Seattle, and The Hague.This is an episode packed with knowledge, fun insights, and a perfect re-entry into the world of movement mechanics. Don’t miss it!📧 Questions or comments? Reach out via email or reply to the podcast.Tune in and let's get moving! 💪✨Learn more about the upcoming events at https://www.rethinkingbiomechanics.comListen to the podcast at:https://letmeintroduceyou.substack.com/podcastSubscribe to the newsletter at:Follow us on instagram at:@biomechanics_movement_summit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Adarian dispels myths about the feet, including:* Toe spread versus toe splay* Pushing the foot into the ground* The big toe* PronationLearn more about upcoming courses (online and in person) at https://www.influencingbiomechanics.comListen to the podcast at:https://letmeintroduceyou.substack.com/podcastSubscribe to the newsletter at:Follow us on instagram at:@influencing_biomechanics This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss how you can use understanding up arm, down arm to improve performance and make a number of activities easier. They cover running, chopping wood, throwing, and rope climbing. They also give a brief overview of upper arm anatomy and function. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss the pelvis and its role in performance, including structural differences between males and females and what that might mean for set up and athletic performance. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss the pelvis and its role in performance, including structural differences between males and females and what that might mean for set up and athletic performance. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss claims that toe strength improves performance. They review two recent papers and cover methodology and why it doesn't necessarily transfer to how you run or jump. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian look at injuries and discuss why programs that are targeting injuries aren't actually getting people stronger, faster, or more fit.Listen to the podcast at:https://letmeintroduceyou.substack.com/podcastSubscribe to the newsletter at:https://letmeintroduceyou.substack.comFollow us on Instagram at:@biomechanics_movement_summit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss the structure of the pelvic floor and why understanding the structure is a game changer for athletic performance. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian look at a research study about calf raises with a discerning eye. They cover how research can be flawed and discuss the trouble with calf raises as an exercise intervention. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian explore the history of the plyometric, including where it originated, how it’s defined, and why the stretch shortening cycle is the key to plyometric exercise. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian dive into the structure and function of the Achilles tendon during dynamic movement. They discuss how the function of the Achilles is commonly viewed, what it's actually doing when you look at it from a structural perspective, and why heel raises might not be doing what you think they are doing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss the origin of the deadlift, what it means to hinge, and whether training the hinge is actually necessary. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss the big toe and how its role in movement isn’t what you might think. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss hamstring strains in sport. Mechanisms, including unwanted vibrations, are viewed from the perspective of what happens during sports and athletic movement. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss the current ACL protocol and why there are gaps between the commonly taught exercises for return to play and what is actually required for return to play. Themes from the book, Let Me Introduce You, are discussed, including rotations, the feet, and input. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com

In this episode, Jenn and Adarian discuss collisions, ACL tears, and rotations. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letmeintroduceyou.substack.com