Articles

Whether you’re hitting the pavement on a casual Sunday jog or training hard for your next race, pain can derail your progress faster than a missed stride. Two of the most common complaints among runners - shin splints and knee pain - are often brushed off as “part of the sport.” But they don’t have to be. At the Optimum Movement Centre, we’ve helped countless runners find lasting relief through one powerful method: myofascial release therapy.

Joining a gym can be intimidating - especially if you’re over 40 and the space is packed with loud music, mirrors, and young, sweaty crowds pushing through fast-paced classes. At Optimum Movement Centre (OMC), we’ve created something very different: a welcoming, supportive, small-group training environment where over-40s thrive.

We believe that training with others should feel uplifting, not overwhelming. That’s why our small-group format strikes the perfect balance - enough people to feel part of something, but small enough for personal attention and proper coaching.

In the world of high performance, there’s a growing understanding that the body and brain are deeply intertwined. Biohackers have long explored how breathing, movement, and recovery influence cognition - but few talk about the fascial system, the connective tissue that links every muscle, joint, and organ in your body.

At Optimum Movement Centre (OMC), we use myofascial release therapy not just to reduce physical tension, but to enhance clarity, resilience, and focus - turning bodywork into a cognitive upgrade.

"If you want to improve the mind, you need to take care of the body. Movement and breath are entry points to neurological transformation." - Wim Hof

In the pursuit of self-mastery, recovery is no longer optional - it's essential. Sleep, stress, breathwork, nutrition - they all matter. But recovery through movement is one of the most powerful and overlooked tools in the biohacker’s toolkit.

At Optimum Movement Centre (OMC), we build recovery into your performance stack with guided movement, myofascial release, and MedX-supported training that restores your nervous system while reinforcing functional strength.

"The best biohack is to respect your biology. That means prioritising recovery as much as effort." - Dave Asprey

Biohackers are great at gathering data - heart rate variability, sleep cycles, glucose curves, oxygen saturation. But when it comes to training, many are still guessing. At Optimum Movement Centre (OMC), we help you turn all that health data into an actionable, effective physical training strategy that upgrades your body to match your biohacking goals.

"If you can't measure it, you can't improve it." - Peter Drucker (popularised among biohackers by Dave Asprey)

You’ve got the numbers - now it’s time to move with intention.

In your 20s, bouncing back from a tough workout or a minor strain is easy. But after 40, the equation changes. Recovery takes longer, and the risk of injury increases - especially if you’re exercising in the wrong environment or without proper support.

That’s why so many people over 40 are turning to Optimum Movement Centre (OMC). We specialise in injury-conscious personal and small group training for people in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Our expert trainers, personalised programs, and innovative equipment - including MedX machines - are designed to help you stay strong, mobile, and confident in your body without the setbacks.

Running is one of the most rewarding forms of exercise - it boosts cardiovascular health, builds mental resilience, and connects you with your community. But it’s also a high-impact, repetitive sport that can take a toll on your body over time. That’s why injury prevention is essential for every runner who wants to keep moving for years to come.

At Optimum Movement Centre, we’re passionate about helping runners stay healthy and active with a tailored, science-based approach. Caroline, our endurance specialist and certified triathlon and running coach, works with runners of all levels to prevent injuries, improve efficiency, and build long-term resilience. With her background in exercise physiology and rehabilitation, she helps you run smarter, not just harder.

At Optimum Movement Centre (OMC), we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of safe, effective, and empowering training. For people with special needs, exercise can be life-changing - not only improving strength and mobility, but also boosting confidence, independence, and overall quality of life.

For runners of all levels – whether you’re chasing your first 5K, training for a marathon, or striving to beat your personal best – the secret to success is not just in the miles you put in, but also in the way you prepare, train, and recover. At the Optimum Movement Centre, we’re proud to introduce Caroline, our running coach who helps athletes unlock their potential with personalised training and recovery support.

If you’re over 40 and trying to stay fit, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of traditional gyms. Crowded machines, loud music, generic programs, and staff who don’t understand how to train a mature body. At a certain point, the fitness approach that worked in your 20s just doesn’t make sense anymore.

In the world of biohacking and performance optimisation, one truth stands out: more isn’t always better - smarter is. For those seeking to improve not just their fitness but their overall healthspan, training must be intelligent, targeted, and supported by systems that amplify results without adding unnecessary stress.

Nautilus One combines weight stacks and selectorized resistance into a dial-based system. They are well-built, accessible, and offer smoother resistance than many older machines. However, Nautilus One primarily targets fitness facilities where ease of use and general strength training are the priority.

eGym has brought digital connectivity and gamified workouts to strength training. But does it deliver the same level of biomechanical precision as MedX?

Kbox is a flywheel-based resistance device that uses inertia to provide eccentric overload. It’s portable and effective for functional training and athletic performance.

Keiser strength machines use pneumatic (air) resistance to provide smooth, consistent load. But how do they compare to MedX’s biomechanical design?

Take Your Running to the Next Level with Expert Coaching at Optimum Movement Centre
Whether you're training for your first half marathon, aiming for a new personal best, or simply want to run faster, stronger, and without injury - there's a smarter way to elevate your running. At Optimum Movement Centre (OMC), we offer expert guidance from passionate professionals like Caroline, our specialist running coach and endurance trainer, to help you go beyond the basics and truly transform your performance.

Biohackers are obsessed with one metric above all others: time. How long you live, how long you perform, and how long you thrive. But longevity isn't just about lifespan - it’s about healthspan. That’s why more and more self-optimisers are turning their attention to the body: movement, mobility, and strength as foundations for long-term vitality.

In the world of biohacking and performance optimisation, one truth stands out: more isn’t always better - smarter is. For those seeking to improve not just their fitness but their overall health span, training must be intelligent, targeted, and supported by systems that amplify results without adding unnecessary stress.

That’s exactly what we do at Optimum Movement Centre (OMC). Whether you’re deep into self-quantification, experimenting with sleep cycles, or focused on longevity, our approach aligns perfectly with the modern self-improvement mindset.

If you’ve stopped exercising due to injury, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves stuck - afraid to train again, unsure of what’s safe, and worried they’ll make things worse. At Optimum Movement Centre (OMC), we specialise in helping people just like you take that first step back into training, safely and confidently.

Injury doesn’t have to mean the end of your fitness journey. With the right support, structure, and environment, it can be the start of a smarter, stronger one.

If you’re over 40 and trying to stay fit, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of traditional gyms. Crowded machines, loud music, generic programs, and staff who don’t understand how to train a mature body. At a certain point, the fitness approach that worked in your 20s just doesn’t make sense anymore.

That’s where Optimum Movement Centre (OMC) comes in. We’ve created a training environment specifically for people in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. Whether you’re returning to fitness, managing injuries, or wanting to build strength without the risk, OMC offers a smarter, safer, and more personalised experience.

What sets our clinic apart is Johnny’s expertise in the Anatomy Trains approach, developed by Thomas Myers. This method maps out the body’s fascial lines — interconnected chains of muscles and connective tissue that influence how we move.
Instead of chasing pain or treating symptoms in isolation, Johnny looks at the body holistically. For example, a runner with lower back pain might actually have restrictions in the calves or hamstrings affecting their movement pattern.
By understanding these connections, Johnny tailors each session to release the right areas, providing fast and long-lasting relief.

For professionals in aged care, nursing, and other healthcare roles, lifting and moving people is a daily part of the job. Whether it’s helping patients in and out of bed, assisting with transfers to a wheelchair, or supporting mobility, lifting incorrectly can put enormous strain on the back, shoulders, and joints—leading to injuries that can affect both your health and your ability to work.

Whether you're a seasoned marathon runner, a weekend warrior, or just starting your running journey, optimizing performance and ensuring proper recovery are essential. Running is more than just putting one foot in front of the other—it requires strength, mobility, endurance, and most importantly, a body that functions at its peak.

At Optimum Movement Centre, John Robinson specializes in helping runners improve performance, prevent injuries, and recover faster. With his extensive knowledge of biomechanics, myofascial release therapy, and functional movement training, John provides a comprehensive approach to enhance your running efficiency and longevity.

When it comes to building core strength, most people think of traditional exercises like crunches, planks, or even yoga. While these methods can help strengthen your core, there’s a more efficient and scientifically-backed way to develop a strong, stable core—using MedX machines, especially the Core Rotation Machine. At the Optimum Movement Centre, we take core strengthening to the next level by combining these advanced machines with Myofascial Release Therapy, helping you achieve better results faster.

If you’ve been searching for a physiotherapist or chiropractor, you’re likely dealing with some form of pain, discomfort, or limited mobility. Both physiotherapy and chiropractic care offer great benefits, but there’s another treatment that could address your issues in a way you might not have considered: Myofascial Release Therapy.

At the Optimum Movement Centre, we specialize in myofascial release, a hands-on therapy that could offer you longer-lasting relief and more comprehensive care for your body’s needs.

If you’ve ever sought relief through sports massage, remedial massage, or deep tissue massage, you know how effective these therapies can be for easing muscle tension and improving recovery. However, there’s another technique you may not have heard of that could take your pain relief and performance to the next level: Myofascial Release Therapy.

At the Optimum Movement Centre, we offer Myofascial Release Therapy, and in this blog, we’ll explore why this technique might be exactly what you need and how it compares to the traditional massage options you’re familiar with.

Myofascial Release (MFR) is a therapeutic technique designed to target and relieve tension in the body's fascial system. Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. When it becomes tight, damaged, or restricted due to stress, injury, or trauma, it can cause pain and limit mobility. Myofascial release works by gently stretching or manipulating these fascial tissues to restore movement and alleviate discomfort.

This hands-on therapy is increasingly popular in wellness, rehabilitation, and athletic performance circles due to its profound effects on relieving chronic pain, improving mobility, and restoring balance to the body.

Before diving into the specific methods for alleviating back and neck pain, it’s essential to understand why non-invasive solutions are gaining popularity. Surgical procedures can be risky, with potential complications and lengthy recovery periods. Medications, while helpful for temporary relief, can lead to dependency and do not address the root cause of the problem. Non-invasive solutions, on the other hand, focus on strengthening the body, improving posture, and enhancing flexibility to prevent pain from recurring.

Martial arts demand a unique blend of strength, power, and flexibility. Traditional gym equipment often misses the mark in addressing these specific needs. However, the MedX equipment at Optimum Movement Centre (OMC) stands out as a game-changer for martial artists. Among its array of benefits, the MedX Core Rotation machine is a standout for enhancing the power of strikes, such as the hammer fist and palm strike used in Arakan Martial Art.

As winter approaches, many of us find ourselves retreating indoors, wrapped in layers of clothing, and often falling prey to the seasonal sniffles and sneezes. However, there is a potent remedy that can help fortify our immune systems and keep us healthy during the colder months: regular exercise, particularly through the programs offered at the Optimum Movement Centre. Not only does regular exercise enhance our immunity, but it also contributes significantly to our overall health and longevity. Let’s delve into the science behind these benefits and explore how training at the Optimum Movement Centre can be your best defence this winter.

In today’s fast-paced work environment, maintaining a high level of physical fitness and mobility is not just a personal health goal; it's a professional necessity. Whether you’re navigating the hustle of a corporate office, managing the demands of a physical job, or adapting to the new norms of remote work, your physical well-being plays a pivotal role in your work performance and overall job satisfaction.

As we step into our 30s and beyond, the allure of travel evolves with us. Gone are the days of spontaneous backpacking and sleeping in hostels; we now yearn for comfort and richer experiences. However, one aspect remains constant: the desire to explore without boundaries. Whether it’s wandering the cobblestone streets of a European city, hiking through the lush landscapes of South America, or simply keeping up with your grandkids at Disney World, physical fitness and mobility play a crucial role in how we experience these adventures.

The Optimum Movement Centre (OMC) understands the physical demands of parenting. Their approach, centred around the use of MedX equipment, is tailored to help parents boost their strength, flexibility, and overall mobility.

The fitness landscape is continuously evolving, and at the forefront of this evolution is functional training—a modality that is reshaping the way individuals engage with their workouts. This holistic approach to exercise has surged in popularity, suggesting a transformative shift in the fitness industry's future.

For many of us, sports are not just hobbies; they're a vital part of our identity and lifestyle. Whether it's hitting the tennis court, enjoying a round of golf, or playing in a local soccer league, staying active in sports is incredibly rewarding. However, as we move into our 30s, 40s, and beyond, playing sports can become more challenging. This is where the Optimum Movement Centre (OMC) steps in, helping sports enthusiasts maintain their athletic edge well into their later years.

The pursuit of weight management often revolves around diets and calorie counting, but there's a more holistic approach that's gaining recognition—functional training. Unlike traditional weight loss methods, functional training focuses on overall health, strength, and functionality. In this article, we'll explore how functional training can be a game-changer in the quest for sustainable weight management and overall well-being.

Functional training, with its emphasis on real-life movements and improved functionality, has gained immense popularity in the fitness world. However, like any fitness trend, it's surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can deter individuals from embracing its benefits. In this article, we'll debunk some common functional training myths, providing evidence-based information to clarify doubts and encourage you to explore this effective fitness approach.

In the pursuit of a healthy and balanced life, we often focus on physical well-being while overlooking the profound connection between our mental and physical health. However, this connection is undeniable, and it forms the core principle of functional training. In this article, we will explore how functional training impacts mental health, highlighting the mind-body connection, and discussing the positive effects it has on mood, stress reduction, and cognitive function.

Athletes, regardless of their level of expertise, are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance. Whether you're a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone passionate about a particular sport, the quest for enhanced athletic abilities never ends. In this article, we will explore the significant impact functional training has on athletes, focusing on how it improves agility, coordination, and sport-specific movements, ultimately leading to superior sports performance.

Aging is a natural part of life, bringing with it wisdom, experience, and, unfortunately, physical challenges. As we grow older, maintaining mobility, balance, and independence becomes increasingly important. Enter functional training, a fitness approach that has proven to be transformative, especially for seniors. In this article, we will explore how functional training can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors, providing not just physical benefits but also fostering a sense of confidence and well-being.

In the pursuit of a healthy and active lifestyle, injuries can be significant setbacks. Whether you're an athlete pushing your limits or someone engaging in regular physical activities, the risk of injuries is always present. However, there's a fitness approach that not only helps prevent injuries but also aids in rehabilitation: functional training. In this article, we will explore the integral role functional training plays in injury prevention and rehabilitation, and how it can empower you to move confidently and pain-free.

Embarking on a weight loss journey is often seen as a daunting task, requiring dedication, commitment, and a well-rounded fitness approach. Amidst the plethora of workout options available, functional training has emerged as a powerful tool in the pursuit of weight loss and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the synergy between functional training and weight loss, uncovering how this innovative fitness approach can help you achieve your weight loss goals effectively and sustainably.

In the world of fitness, the choices seem endless, each promising a healthier, fitter version of yourself. Traditional exercise routines, often centered around isolated muscle training and cardio workouts, have long been the go-to approach for many fitness enthusiasts. However, in recent years, functional training has gained substantial traction, challenging the conventional norms and reshaping how we perceive physical fitness. In this article, we will explore the differences between functional training and traditional exercise, helping you understand which approach aligns better with your fitness goals and lifestyle.

In the ever-evolving landscape of fitness, functional training has emerged as a revolutionary approach, transforming the way people perceive and engage with exercise. Unlike traditional workout routines that often isolate muscle groups, functional training places a strong emphasis on real-life movements and enhanced functionality in everyday activities. In this article, we will delve into the core principles of functional training, shedding light on why it has gained immense popularity among fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In the journey towards optimal health and fitness, having accurate insights into your body composition is paramount. Traditional methods like weighing scales can fall short in providing a comprehensive understanding of your body's composition, which includes fat, muscle, and water percentages. This is where the Evolt 360 body scanner comes into play, revolutionizing how we approach health and fitness assessment. In this blog post, we delve into the transformative impact of the Evolt 360 body scanner and how it can help you make informed decisions to improve your overall well-being.

As we age, maintaining our health and fitness becomes increasingly vital for a fulfilling and active life. For individuals over 40, the benefits of personal training are even more pronounced, offering tailored guidance and support to navigate the challenges that come with age. With the integration of MedX equipment and our experienced trainers, you're not only ensured safe and effective workouts, but you're also equipped with the tools to achieve lasting health and vitality.

Functional training has emerged as a cornerstone of modern fitness, focusing on enhancing your body's ability to perform everyday movements efficiently and safely. As the demands of life become increasingly dynamic, functional training offers a holistic approach that translates directly into real-world activities. When combined with the precision and capabilities of MedX equipment, the advantages of functional training reach new heights, enabling superior results while minimizing the risk of injuries.

Special events, whether weddings, formal gatherings, or significant celebrations, call for your best self to take center stage. Amidst the excitement of choosing outfits and styling, many individuals also aspire to enhance their physical appearance. This is where the dynamic duo of an experienced personal trainer and MedX equipment comes into play. With their expertise and precision, these professionals can help you achieve your desired physique, boosting your self-assurance and ensuring you radiate confidence on your momentous day.

The pursuit of optimal health and fitness has led to an array of exercise equipment flooding the market. Amid this landscape, a breakthrough innovation known as MedX machines has captured the attention of both fitness enthusiasts and medical professionals. With a foundation grounded in cutting-edge research, MedX machines represent a new era in strength training and rehabilitation. In this blog post, we delve into the industry-leading research behind MedX machines and explore their stark differences from traditional exercise equipment.

Back injuries can be debilitating and challenging to overcome, affecting daily life and impeding one's overall well-being. However, the advent of advanced medical technologies has paved the way for innovative solutions in the field of rehabilitation and injury prevention. Among these breakthroughs, MedX equipment has emerged as a game-changer in healing back injuries and preventing future complications. With its precision, customization, and targeted approach, MedX equipment offers a range of benefits that are reshaping the landscape of back injury treatment.

In the ever-evolving realm of fitness and strength training, staying ahead of the curve is essential for achieving optimal results. While traditional exercise methods have their merits, the advent of advanced technologies has paved the way for more precise and effective approaches. MedX equipment, with its cutting-edge design and targeted capabilities, offers fitness enthusiasts and athletes a unique opportunity to gain the edge in strength and fitness. By harnessing the potential of MedX equipment, individuals can unlock new levels of performance and reach their fitness goals with unparalleled precision.

With the growing interest in pursuing healthier lifestyles and joining gyms, the fitness industry has witnessed significant expansion. However, along with this growth comes the need to address potential risks associated with improper equipment usage and prioritize safety during workouts. MedX equipment offers a reliable solution for safe and effective training, enabling individuals to achieve their fitness goals while ensuring their well-being.

MedX has more scientific evidence-based research, and technically advanced, than all other exercise equipment manufacturers combined. For example, it includes the only FDA registered Medical Strengthening Devices in the United States for strengthening both the lumbar and cervical areas of the spine. MedX has withstood the test of time and has helped millions heal themselves or simply gain strength with targeted muscle groups. This is why professional athletes such as Tiger Woods and Michael Clarke have used MedX for rehabilitation from injuries and to also improve their performance, range of motion and strength.

Medical research shows that the majority of patients with chronic spinal pain are significantly “deconditioned”. Weakness of the musculature of the spine can lead to many conditions such as herniated discs, facet syndrome, and degenerative joint disease. A strong spine provides a strong foundation that allows for healthy spaces between the vertebrae, which helps prevent spinal compression.

To provide lasting relief from chronic neck and back pain, the spinal structures and supporting tissue must be actively reconditioned through isolated strengthening exercise. Until MedX developed the Lumbar Extension restraint system, there was never an effective way to isolate and strengthen the muscles of the spine.

A stiff, tight and inflexible body is a one way ticket to poor moods, low energy levels, frequent back and neck pain, as well as an inability to complete normal daily tasks with ease.

Regardless of your occupation, the majority of today’s jobs require bending, climbing, carrying, twisting, turning and suffering back and neck pain in silence. Not to mention office jobs where sitting for extended periods of time plays havoc on the back and neck.

Regardless of whether your child has been diagnosed with autism, ASD, ADHD, ADD or another learning difficulty, one thing is for sure: functional training and exercise are valuable natural treatments. 

Debilitating, daily pain can have a tremendous negative effect on all areas of life, but it doesn’t need to. Freedom from pain is possible, it’s just about taking the small steps needed to overcome this pain - something your body has the power to do.

Do you lead a sedentary or inactive life? This isn’t always an easy question to answer. Long days in the office can creep up on us, injury and illness can slowly make us less mobile, and lifestyle habits can drastically reduce our time spent exercising.

A strong pelvic floor is very important for supporting a range of our body’s natural functions. Pelvic floor exercises are something many of us are told to do as we age, but many of us rarely make the time for them until the symptoms of a weak pelvic floor start to show themselves.

Do you want to improve your golf swing, performance and endurance to enhance your game?

Whether you’re an amateur or professional golfer, you are generally looking to improve your swing, grip and shot selection, amongst other technical components of the game.

For a long, strong and consistent golf swing, having an optimal range of motion through your shoulders, hips and spine is essential. In order to improve your game, you need to address these key areas through a focussed strength and conditioning program. Physical strength, flexibility and general condition play an important role in your overall game.

Back pain is a common and often debilitating condition, with approximately one in six Australians suffering back pain each year. It comes as no surprise then, that there are an increasing number of products promising fast relief for back pain. The problem with trying to get rid of back pain quickly, or even instantly, is that these are generally temporary options that don’t address the underlying issues.

Neck pain can be a real pain in the neck. Poor puns aside, neck pain can be very disruptive to our lives. Whether it’s a neck strain or sprain, it is often uncomfortable and painful.

Rounded shoulders, slouching while seated, leaning on one leg when standing, or extending your head too far forward are all common examples of poor posture, and each can have very dire side effects.