Movement with a Purpose reinvents fitness goals.
We believe fitness should make you feel great – in both mind and body. A good workout produces endorphins and makes you feel happy, and in theory, it should also help you build a strong and able body. But for many people, finding a program or routine is an incredible challenge, because of physical ailments and bodily pain that prevents them from even so much as going on a walk. If you are one of these people – or know one of these people – I know you understand what I’m saying.
We reached out to our friend Eden Looney, a personal trainer and former competitive athlete – to have her tell us more about a program she’s developed, which helps women (including those with physical and painful ailments) move with purpose and reach their fitness goals.
The concept of Purpose Barre by Eden Rocks Movement with a Purpose began in 2013. I used the art of movement from Ballet and Dance – as well as the movement, knowledge, and experience I’d gained from being both a competitive tennis athlete and a personal trainer who thought and trained outside the box – to develop this fresh new workout program.
Due to my past ailments, including being diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, the concept is built on having a strong core and maintaining it with a strong spine and a strong mind. I knew from my experiences that unfortunately when some people are working out or learning a new sport – or just in their everyday movements – they are unaware of correct form, because we are not actually taught how to build and maintain proper posture and form.
So bad form leads to bad results – or worse, injury. For a period of time, I was not able to lift heavy weights or do any kind of workout that applied too much pressure to my joints due to the fact that I have rheumatoid arthritis and two wrists that were severely fractured – with a metal plate in one.
But, using the method I developed, I was able to completely transform my body into being in the best shape of my life today, because of my passion, persistence, and strong belief in movement principles.
I customize routines using smaller weights, resistance bands, sliders, balls, TRX, bosu balls, silks, etc, using a barre or chair to assist me and my own body resistance.
And it doesn’t stop there. I believe if you are going to spend the time to workout, you should know exactly which muscles you are working. And you should use proper posture and careful movement during transference of your body weight, and throughout your kinetic chain.
I believe in visualizing it not just in the mirror, but also in your mind. The results are amazing! I train slowly and pulse in between. I’m a firm believer in flexion/extension and repetition. I also believe in never doing the same class twice. Always evolve and never remain stagnant. Never give the same performance.
Lead By Example
My fitness classes are more like a production. I feel that the energy of both the music and each intricate movement I teach along-side my students has to be fluid and perfected each time. If I don’t give my best performance, how should I expect my students to give theirs?
My program is designed around the Cecchetti Method. This method seeks to develop the essential skills – Balance, Poise, Strength, Elevation, Flexibility and Elasticity – also adding a combination of art, athleticism, and self- competitiveness. Essentially, it’s about making sure every movement you make has a specific purpose.
There are no limitations on how and where you can perform my workout programs. I modify everything and also make my workouts even more challenging for those who are up for the task. You don’t even need a barre. In fact, I usually teach with a chair in my classes. I’m even expanding my virtual classes, so my students can join me to improve their fitness right from their own home.
Something New
I am really excited to be introducing Purpose Barre H2O by Eden Rocks Movement with a Purpose! It is Purpose Barre in the water, using a lot of resistance and elevation for extensions, and it’s great for all ages.
Also, by popular demand I am bringing back my new and improved tennis conditioning classes – Tennis Barre by Eden Rocks Movement with a Purpose and Tennis Barre H20 by Eden Rocks Movement with a Purpose.
The Sky’s The Limit.
Like I said before, there are no limitations. I took my broken body and completely transformed it into what it is today. And I’m happy to teach others and help them become their best, too!
You can find Eden on Facebook at @EdenROCKS and on Instagram at @purpose_barre_by_eden_rocks.
Classes are available Mon, Wed, Friday 9:15am. Tues 6pm. 860 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island Fl. 34145 Suite #4. Private, semi-private, small group, and virtual classes are also available.