Learn to move like a pro in time for the 2025 AFL Gather Round

When Matthew Heavyside graduated as a physiotherapist in 2009, his studies were far from over.

After spending a decade exploring functional movement and the dynamic Animal Flow techniques, he realised he needed to create a holistic system that harnessed the strengths of the many different practices he'd encountered.

The result of that journey is Motum, a system of movement that aims to improve core strength, flexibility and range of motion by utilising elements of Pilates, yoga, tai chi and traditional physio.

“Our core value as a team is taking a movement approach to health,” says Matthew.

“No matter your age or physical ability, we treat everyone the same way we would a professional athlete.

"That means doing an entire body movement health check to identify any areas that are limited or dysfunctional, and we don't just work on improving pain and musculoskeletal problems."

Matthew adds, "We're also helping to improve movement patterns that combine strength, flexibility and a range of motion - things like bending, squatting, reaching and twisting that are part of a healthy everyday life.”

This cross-disciplinary approach proved so successful that it caught the attention of Adelaide Crows captain Jordan Dawson, who joined a 12-week program in Motum's Payneham clinic.

After identifying some limitations in his hips and lower back, he began working with “big-time Crows fan” Matthew, to create a new movement regime that also aided his recovery between games.

The partnership has proved a huge success, with Jordan saying “I felt like my overall movement was better, my mobility and flexibility reached whole new levels.

These changes helped me recover and helped me get better during the in-season grind.”

And a best on ground performance against St Kilda in Round One shows that his pre-season work this year is already paying off.

Jordan has since signed on as the ambassador for Motum's new Highgate studio, as well as the recently launched Online Programs designed to improve strength and flexibility from home or the office.

In addition to courses targeting specific areas like the neck, hips and hamstrings, the brand new 6-week Move Like A Pro program has dropped just in time for Gather Round to help you get ready for footy (or netball, or soccer) season.

Even better, all the plans have a 7-day free trial period so you can test them out.

Matthew Heavyside's top tips to improve your movement quality

Standing start

Try going from standing to lying flat on your back and getting back up again without using your arms or hands on the ground. You need a lot of spinal flexibility, core strength, and hip mobility to succeed, so this is a great way to test your strength and flexibility.

Deep squat

Lower yourself into a deep squat until your bottom is almost touching the ground, with feet shoulder-width apart and heels flat on the floor, then hold it for a minute. This is a true test of flexibility in our hip joints, knee joints and ankle joints, and resting in this position is associated with better longevity and joint health in the lower limbs.

Whole body push-ups

From a standard push-up position, drop your entire body slowly until you're lying flat on the ground, then push up again so your chest lifts at the same time as the hips. While a regular push-up allows you to get away with just arm and shoulder strength, this keeps your core connected to your shoulders and requires a higher level of core strength.

MOTUM Health 

296 Payneham  Road, Payneham
E: hello@motumhealth.com.au
T: 08 8363 6370