Probably already on your fitness radar, Rod Cooper, founder of The Movement Collective, has quickly made himself a name via Instagram with his mesmerizing images. Think jaw-dropping calisthenics poses against breathtaking backdrops. We touch base with him and find out what is in store for him this year
WHY DID YOU CREATE THE MOVEMENT COLLECTIVE?
I wanted to create an environment where any type of person can feel comfortable and challenged at the same time. I wanted a place where we push and encourage each other to level up and really explore what we are capable of as humans.
MANY OF THE THINGS YOU DO AT THE MOVEMENT COLLECTIVE LOOK AMAZING ON SOCIAL MEDIA. BUT YOUR TRAINING GOES A LOT DEEPER THAN THAT.
Yes, I feel that sometimes it gets a bit lost in the fancy tricks that most people pay attention to, but we have a massive focus on longevity, mobility and stability of all joints. Moving well and pain-free is one of the big focuses, not just handstands and back flips.
YOU RECENTLY DID A RETREAT WITH SJANA ELISE EARP. ARE RETREATS SOMETHING YOU WILL FOCUS ON MORE IN THE FUTURE?
Yes, I am about to launch my second Newcastle movement weekend possibly in February next year. So keep an eye out for that one. There’s a full Australian tour on the cards and possible international retreats and workshops.
See also: Alex Herrera Combines Movement Culture and Martial Arts
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS
Loving, playful and high-energy.
THE CHARACTERISTIC YOU LIKE LEAST IN YOURSELF
I am very erratic and find it hard to concentrate on one specific task at a time. This is a good thing and a bad thing. I am always excited about new things and have a very creative mind because of it. But I feel the business could do better if I had more focus.
See also: Hannah Bronfman – Fitness Queen
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?
Fireman.
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN?
Not so much advice but a quote I listen to by Tony Robbins. “Knowledge is not power, it’s only potential power. Action is power.”
WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON?
One arm handstand and splits for personal goals. Also always working on making The Movement Collective the best movement facility in the world.
YOUR MOVEMENT WORK IS BASED ON GYMNASTICS, CALISTHENICS, DANCE, MARTIAL ARTS AND SO ON. WHICH ONE DO YOU PREFER THE MOST?
I really like the gymnastics elements and I am just starting to take a interest in some forms of dance.
DO YOU SPEND MUCH TIME ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
Too much time, ha.
HOW DO YOU USE SOCIAL MEDIA?
For inspiration and also to share my work at The Movement Collective and spread the word about the movement practice.
HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH CRITICISM?
I have not yet received a lot, as the stuff I am doing is all positive and I am never one to bash another way of training or style. So it hasn’t really been an issue…yet. I believe everyone has the right to an opinion, but it probably won’t change my mind/direction with what I am doing and what I will achieve.
FAVORITE EXERCISE
Handstands and acrobatics.
See also: Mia Kang – Model-turned-Muay Thai Fighter
FAVORITE ACTIVEWEAR BRAND
Alo Yoga.
FAVORITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION
Nihi Sumba on Sumba Island. This is where the retreat was…ahhhhh this place is magic.
TREASURED HOTEL OR RESORT
Again Nih Sumba.
BEST PLACE ON EARTH
Newcastle, Australia.
YOUR TRAVEL ATTIRE
Activewear and mostly barefoot.
FAVORITE ‘ME’ TIME
Surfing.
YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT
I don’t really use one, I have an organic deodorant and it smells like lavender.
FOOD YOU CRAVE
Chocolate and pizza not at the same time thoug.
WHAT KEEPS YOU UP AT NIGHT?
New ideas for The Movement Collective.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Watching people make massive changes in all areas of their lives, seeing everyone win. This really drives me to improve.
ON YOUR PLAYLIST
Spotify ‘just chill’ or anything except country pop.
WHO DO YOU FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM?
@doyoutravel, @bo_xox, @roye_gold, @portal.ido, @takkesh, @markrobberds, @moonstrucktraveller, @kookslams, @lind.slaaay
THE BOOK/MAGAZINE ON YOUR BEDSIDE TABLE
Opportunity Isnowhere, a book written by my good mate Declan Edwards.
SOMETHING YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT
Movement and love/connection.
YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing.”
Follow Rod on Instagram @rodjcooper and @the_movement_collective
