Movement Logic: Strong Opinions, Loosely Held

Dr. Sarah Court, PT, DPT and Laurel Beversdorf
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  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
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Movement Logic: Strong Opinions, Loosely Held

Welcome to the Movement Logic Podcast, with yoga teacher and strength coach Laurel Beversdorf, and physical therapist Dr. Sarah Court. With over 30 years combined experience in the yoga, movement and physical therapy worlds, we believe in strong ideas, loosely held – which means we’re not hyping outdated movement concepts. Instead, we’re here with up-to-date and cutting-edge tools, evidence and ideas to help you as a mover and a teacher. Music: Makani by Scandinavianz & AXM

  1. Episode 101: Inbetweenie - 6 Takeaways from Running a Marathon that Apply to Any Excercise Goal

    4 HRS AGO

    Episode 101: Inbetweenie - 6 Takeaways from Running a Marathon that Apply to Any Excercise Goal

    In this episode of the Movement Logic Podcast, Laurel shares six universal takeaways from training for and running her first marathon—and how they apply to any long term, challenging, exercise-related goal. Whether your goal is to build strength, increase stamina, or just feel more capable in your daily life, this episode explores fundamental training principles, helpful mindset coaching, and empowering tips to help you reach a long-term, physically demanding goal. Rather than focusing on the details of marathon training, Laurel distills what she learned about goal-setting, accountability, program design, recovery, and the fatigue that can sometimes hide progress. She also calls out the overwhelming and often contradictory fitness advice targeted at women, especially during perimenopause and menopause, and urges a more individualized and practical approach to training. Sign up for our Bone Density Mini Course: Barbell 101! Follow us on Instagram @movementlogictutorials 00:58 Why I trained for a marathon and what I learned04:17 Takeaway #1: Have a realistic, measurable goal13:34 Takeaway #2: Programming is a hypothesis21:05 Takeaway #3: Accountability helps you follow through27:50 Takeaway #4: Fatigue can mask your progress35:45 Takeaway #5: Recovery reveals your fitness42:00 Takeaway #6: Strength supports everything RESOURCES Episode 9: What Are the Best Exercises for Strength? Episode 85: Inbetweenie - Boosting Recovery: What Really Works Episode 70: Inbetweenie - Do you need a deload week? Episode 90: Capacities for Longevity Part 1: Strength Episode 94: Capacities for Longevity Part 2: Power Episode 98: Capacities for Longevity Part 3: Cardio

    48 min
  2. Episode 100: Inbetweenie - The Hidden Cost of "Just Do Something" Fitness Advice

    4 JUNE

    Episode 100: Inbetweenie - The Hidden Cost of "Just Do Something" Fitness Advice

    In this episode of the Movement Logic Podcast, Sarah explores the commonly held belief that any amount of exercise is better than none. Using recent research, she discusses the benefits of minimal exercise on cardiovascular health and longevity but also highlights the limitations of this advice. She emphasizes the need for strength training and power exercises to meet the comprehensive physical needs of the body, especially as we age. Additionally, she discusses the socioeconomic barriers to regular exercise and suggests systemic changes to make meaningful physical activity more accessible to everyone. Sign up for the Wait List for our Bone Density Course! Movement Logic on Instagram 00:03 The Common Exercise Advice: Just Do Something 02:01 Scientific Evidence Supporting Minimal Exercise 06:58 Limitations of Minimal Exercise 10:01 Strength Training and Its Importance 16:35 Challenges and Practical Solutions for Exercise 22:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts References: Dose-response associations between accelerometry measured physical activity and sedentary time and all cause mortality: systematic review and harmonised meta-analysis Physical Activity, All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality, and Cardiovascular Disease Association of wearable device-measured vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity with mortality Resistance Training and Mortality Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Effects of Resistance Training Frequency on Measures of Muscle Hypertrophy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    27 min
  3. Episode 99: Inbetweenie - Is the Sitting-Rising Test a Lifespan Predictor - or Just Hype?

    21 MAY

    Episode 99: Inbetweenie - Is the Sitting-Rising Test a Lifespan Predictor - or Just Hype?

    In this 'Inbetweenie' episode of the Movement Logic podcast, Sarah delves into the widespread misinterpretation of a 2014 research study titled 'Ability to Sit and Rise from the Floor as a Predictor of All-Cause Mortality.' Popularly known as the Sitting Rising Test (SRT), the study has been sensationalized in the media and on social platforms, claiming that the ability (or inability) to get up from the floor without assistance can predict mortality. Sarah critiques the study's methodology, the pitfalls of its media representation, and the critical difference between correlation and causation. She also emphasizes the importance of proper interpretation to avoid fear-mongering and encourages training in strength and balance for overall health benefits. Get on our Wait List for the Bone Density Course! Follow us on Instagram @movementlogictutorials 01:08 Overview of the Misinterpreted Study 03:35 Details of the Sitting Rising Test (SRT) 04:21 Methodology and Findings of the Study 14:33 Critique of the Study's Methodology 23:43 Misinterpretations and Media Hype 29:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts References: Episode 15: 3! Easy! Rules! About! Research! Ability to sit and rise from the floor as a predictor of all-cause mortality(abstract) Conor O’Shea podcast: Taking Control of Your Pain Through Movement SRT Test on YouTube Discover Magazine: Simple Sitting Test Predicts How Long You'll Live

    34 min
  4. Episode 98: Capacities for Longevity Part 3: Cardio

    7 MAY

    Episode 98: Capacities for Longevity Part 3: Cardio

    In this episode of the Movement Logic Podcast, we dive into cardiovascular health and the role of cardiorespiratory fitness in supporting longevity—especially for women as they age. We break down the science behind moderate and vigorous aerobic exercise, explain how it differs from strength training, and explore why both are essential for long-term health. We also tackle some of the most persistent cardio misconceptions, unpack the physiological differences between strength and aerobic training, and share evidence-based strategies for integrating both into your routine. Along the way, we offer personal insights and practical tips for building aerobic capacity—with a special focus on finding and sustaining moderate intensity. You'll learn how to gauge it using tools like RPE, the talk test, and heart rate zones. Sign up for Bone Density Course: Lift for Longevity. THE CART CLOSES THIS SATURDAY, MAY 10th, 2025! Follow us on Instagram @movementlogictutorials 00:00 Podcast Introduction and Vocal Warmups 07:32 The Importance of Cardio Respiratory Fitness 11:01 Understanding VO2 Max and Its Benefits 13:45 Physical Activity vs. Exercise 23:36 The Role of Cardio Respiratory Fitness in Longevity 30:30 Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Exercise 34:35 Recovery and Adaptation 53:30 Biology of Cardio Respiratory Fitness 53:46 Aerobic vs. Resistance Training 59:43 Understanding Lactate, Lactate Thresholds, and Exercise Intensity 01:02:31 Training Zones 01:22:07 Moderate vs. Vigorous Intensity Exercise 01:44:13 Best Exercises for Aerobic Endurance 01:49:58 Combining Strength and Cardio Training 01:53:56 Cardiovascular Health in Women 02:07:42 Why People Hate Cardio and How to Overcome It 02:21:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts RESOURCES Read JAMA Network Open about cardio and mortality risk Listen to Long & Lean pt. 2 Read VO₂ max associated with reduction in all-cause mortality Listen about exercise recovery Read Burn about human metabolism by Herman Ponzer Read Eve about evolution and the female body by Cat Bohannon Read about cardiovascular disease and risk factors for women

    2h 25m
  5. Episode 97: Stronger Than Ever - BDC Alums Share Their Stories

    30 APR

    Episode 97: Stronger Than Ever - BDC Alums Share Their Stories

    Welcome to Episode 97 of the Movement Logic Podcast! In this special episode, Laurel and Sarah talk to four women who recently completed the Bone Density Course: Lift for Longevity about their experiences. Whether it’s building strength and stability for hiking and biking, reclaiming confidence in their bodies, or surprising themselves with what they can lift, each woman brings a unique and inspiring story. In this episode, you’ll hear from: Leslie Nelson, a former professional dancer and movement educator from the Berkshires of Massachusetts, who rediscovered strength, resilience, and even more mobility through lifting. Julie Wright, a lifelong ballet dancer and psychotherapist based in New York City, who realized that ballet and walking weren’t enough to maintain her bone health — and found empowerment through barbell training. Barb Elias, a retired public servant and yoga teacher from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, who worked with her natural hypermobility to build real-world strength that supports her hiking, biking, and day-to-day confidence. Susan Saylor, a former civil rights attorney turned yoga teacher in San Francisco, who overcame her hesitations about lifting and built a new relationship with strength training that shows up both on and off the mat.If you’ve ever wondered if you’re too old, too inexperienced, or too "not a gym person" to lift heavy and get stronger, these conversations will change your mind. Important: The cart for Bone Density Course: Lift for Longevity closes Saturday, May 10th — so don’t wait!  SIGN UP HERE! We won't run this course for another 6 months!

    1h 28m
  6. Episode 96: Bone Density Grifters: Introducing the Grift-O-Meter!

    23 APR

    Episode 96: Bone Density Grifters: Introducing the Grift-O-Meter!

    In this episode of the Movement Logic podcast, Sarah and Laurel dig into the grift surrounding popular bone health programs, critically analyzing Bones for Life, Bone Coach, and Buff Bones. They introduce the Grift-O-Meter™ scale to rate each program on their misleading tactics and claims about osteoporosis treatment. They conclude by decrying the patronizing nature of some fitness regimes, urging a more empowered and scientifically sound approach. Sign up for our FREE LIVE online Strength class on 4/26 at 11am ET / 8am PT 00:00 Introduction 11:40 Critique of Bone Density Programs 43:30 Debunking Pseudoscience in Marketing 45:49 Feldenkrais Movements and Bone Health 01:23:43 Understanding Naturopathic Education 01:29:49 Exploring Kevin Ellis' Supplement Company 01:31:22 Osteo IQ: DNA Testing and Bone Health 01:41:20 Buff Bones: A Deep Dive 02:05:36 Outdated Research and Spinal Flexion 02:16:28 Instagram Messaging and Audience Engagement 02:20:52 Strength Training for Bone Density 02:39:49 Lifting Weights in a Patriarchy Download Your Grift-O-Meter here! Episode 56 Does Hypermobility Cause Osteoporosis? Episode 82 Weird Science: When It Doesn’t All Add Up Episode 90 Capacities for Longevity Part 1: Strength Episode 91 LIFTMOR, Not Less: An Interview with Belinda Beck Episode 93 Should You Avoid Spinal Flexion With Osteoporosis Episode 94 Capacities for Longevity Part 2: Power Results not Typical Podcast Decoding the Gurus Bones For Life https://bonecoach.com/ https://healthybonesco.com/ https://osteoiq.com/ https://www.integrativenutrition.com/ Bone Turnover Markers in the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Metabolic Bone Disease Sleep Duration and Bone Density Buff Bones MEDEX-OP Stop Worrying About Lifting Weights for Bone Density Laurel’s Response Osteoporosis Confusion Squat Alignment

    2h 49m
  7. Episode 95: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly: Navigating Physical Therapy with Dr. Caitlin Casella

    16 APR

    Episode 95: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly: Navigating Physical Therapy with Dr. Caitlin Casella

    In this insightful episode, Dr. Sarah Court sits down with Dr. Caitlin Casella, PT, DPT, to discuss the evolution and current state of physical therapy. Dr. Casella shares her journey from being a full-time yoga instructor to becoming a PT, the transition from yoga to developing her own physical therapy practice, and her thoughts on the business models in PT clinics today. They delve into the challenges of the current healthcare system, share personal experiences and lessons learned from clinical rotations, and discuss the importance of sustainable career practices to avoid burnout in the industry. This conversation is an invaluable resource for current and prospective PTs, and movement professionals considering a transition into physical therapy. 00:41 Journey to Becoming a Physical Therapist 00:56 Transition from Yoga to Physical Therapy 02:59 Starting a PT Clinic 04:15 Clinic Operations and Burnout 05:55 Specialized Services and Classes 07:16 Menopause and Women's Health 09:47 First Experiences with Physical Therapy 13:29 Clinical Rotations and Pandemic Challenges 19:07 Inpatient vs. Outpatient PT 22:43 Cash-Based vs. Insurance-Based Clinics 30:04 Balancing Medicare and Cash Patients 34:21 Private Practice Setup 34:41 Balancing Rates and Burnout 35:09 Recognizing Burnout Signs 38:25 Transitioning to Private Practice 39:51 Challenges in PT Profession 43:47 Advice for Aspiring PTs 48:54 PT School Experience 57:52 Practical Application of PT Education Sign up for our FREE Bone Density Course Strength Class here! Resources:Practice Human website Dr. Caitlin Casella on IG

    1h 10m
  8. Episode 94: Capacities for Longevity Part 2: Power

    9 APR

    Episode 94: Capacities for Longevity Part 2: Power

    In this episode of the Movement Logic Podcast, Laurel and Sarah explore why power training deserves a spot in your movement routine—especially as you age. They kick things off by reviewing the different types of strength before introducing the concept of power, breaking down the fact that, yes, there are different types of power too. You’ll hear why power is critical for balance, fall prevention, and quick, reactive movements that keep you moving safely and independently in daily life. Laurel and Sarah explain how power tends to decline faster than strength as we get older—and why that matters—along with how the right kind of training can help you maintain and even improve it. They share real-world examples of power in action, clear up common misconceptions, and highlight the key principles that make power training both safe and effective. Plus, they give a sneak peek into their upcoming course designed to make power training approachable, progressive, and even—dare we say—fun. SIGN UP HERE to take a free Bone Density Course class with us LIVE April 26th 8am PT / 11am ET Follow @MovementLogicTutorials on Instagram 00:00 Introduction and Banter 00:15 Discussion on PTs Calling Themselves Doctors 01:17 Observations about the Bench Press from Recent Classes 05:05 Upcoming Free Bone Density Class 07:08 Series on Physical Capacities for Longevity 10:11 Strength vs. Power 11:54 Importance of Power Training for Older Adults 38:43 Force-Velocity Curve Explained 44:58 Types of Power 49:08 Applying Strength and Power in Sports and Daily Life 57:19 Neuromuscular Adaptations in Strength and Power Training 01:02:35 The Stretch Shortening Cycle and Power Training 01:08:07 The Importance of Power Training for Longevity 01:21:08 Cultural Misconceptions About Power Training 01:24:53 Teaser for Our New Course on Power 01:27:48 Conclusion: The Importance of Power Training RESOURCES Episode 60: Dismantling Long & Lean Pt. 1 Episode 90: Capacities for Longevity Pt. 1: Strength Sys review and MA: Power v Strength for Older Adults Sys Review and MA: Power to Reduce Falls Risk Force Velocity Curve (the banana!) Episode 37: Plyometrics - More Bang for Your Bones Lachlan James paper - Not All Strength is Created Equal + Table from NSCA with Each Classification

    1h 32m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Movement Logic Podcast, with yoga teacher and strength coach Laurel Beversdorf, and physical therapist Dr. Sarah Court. With over 30 years combined experience in the yoga, movement and physical therapy worlds, we believe in strong ideas, loosely held – which means we’re not hyping outdated movement concepts. Instead, we’re here with up-to-date and cutting-edge tools, evidence and ideas to help you as a mover and a teacher. Music: Makani by Scandinavianz & AXM

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