Episode #33. Rewiring movement patterns: how simple sensory input shapes neuroplasticity
It’s fascinating to discover the role some of our senses have in transforming the way we move.
In the latest episode of the Make Movement Matter podcast, I talk with Amanda Kemp, a pilates teacher with a deep understanding of how 3 of our senses can materially affect our movement patterns and therefore our practical abilities.
Amanda shares her journey of studying these sensory connections to help her clients move with more confidence and less pain. We dive into the concept of neuroplasticity in reshaping movement, real-life success stories and practical tools you can use to approach movement with more awareness and intentionality.
Whether you're navigating physical limitations, looking to improve your balance, or just curious about ways to improve your own movement, this conversation is full of insightful takeaways.
We discuss the importance of holistic movement practices, why relying on proprioception alone might not be enough, and how visual and vestibular cues can enhance your daily activities like walking.
Listen to learn how understanding your senses can empower you to move better and live better!
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Proprioception and Its Challenges
02:57 The Role of Visual and Vestibular Systems
11:51 Neuroplasticity and Intentional Movement
14:56 Real-Life Applications and Success Stories
20:57 Empowerment Through Movement
32:51 Understanding the Vestibular System
35:11 Compensating for Sensory Loss
37:45 The Importance of Balance Training
38:42 Visual Cues and Movement
45:14 Practical Applications of Movement Techniques
49:23 The Role of Feedback in Movement
53:15 Walking as a Balancing Challenge
About this week’s guests:
Amanda Kemp
Amanda Kemp is a specialised Pilates teacher who uses a neurological based approach to help people get out of pain, recover from injury, build strength and mobility. Every session is personalised based on the brain’s unique response to movement. She works 1:1 or in small groups online or in person at her East Sussex studio.
When not teaching Amanda can be found practising Qigong in the forest or salsa on the dance floor.
Connect here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kemp_pilates/
Website: https://kemppilates.com/
More about your host, Wendy
Wendy (50) founded Reclaim Movement after a running injury at 40 turned into 4 years of chronic pain. In her search for answers and to reclaim her own movement again she discovered natural movement. The philosophy of training real life practical movements to be able to keep using them as we age, coupled with the benefit of using strengthening and mobilising whole-body movement patterns that are underused in today’s modern world made her realise she had found a way to move for life.
Wendy’s aim is to help people embrace a movement-rich life, at any age, to improve mobility, strength and confidence to keep moving well and doing the things they love for as long as they want.
MovNat Level 1 certified & Functional Range Conditioning certified, she coaches online group classes live & by replay in the Reclaim Movement membership as well as online and in-person private coaching in Oxford.
Find out more about Reclaim Movement:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/reclaim.movement
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@reclaim.movement
Facebook: https://facebook.com/reclaim.movement
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