Question 1

Do I need to already be in good shape?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not. In fact, Montague Movement & Mind was designed for people who may not feel comfortable in a traditional fitness environment. You don't need to get in shape before you begin. We start with where you are today. Your sessions are adapted to your current fitness level, abilities, range of motion and goals. From there, we progress gradually and safely.

Question 2

Is this a high-intensity or hardcore workout program?

Accepted Answer

No. This is not a boot camp, and the goal is never to push you to exhaustion. We believe an effective session doesn't have to leave you unable to move the next day. You will be challenged appropriately, but always within your capabilities. We want you finishing your session feeling successful, energized and looking forward to the next one.

Question 3

What happens if I can't perform a particular exercise?

Accepted Answer

We modify it. There is no single exercise that every client must perform. If something doesn't suit your mobility, comfort level or range of motion, we'll adjust the movement, reduce the resistance, change the exercise or find another way of accomplishing the same objective. The program adapts to you — you don't have to adapt to the program.

Question 4

Am I too old to start?

Accepted Answer

Montague Movement & Mind is designed primarily for adults 40+, including people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond when training is appropriate for them. We're much more interested in your individual capabilities than the number on your birth certificate. Where appropriate, we'll also recommend medical clearance before beginning or progressing certain activities. Our question isn't, "How old are you?" It's: "What do you want to still be capable of doing 10 years from now?"

Question 5

I've never boxed before. Can I still do the boxing portion?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. No boxing experience is necessary. This is non-contact boxing for fitness and movement. There is no sparring and nobody is hitting you. You'll learn simple punches and combinations using focus mitts at a pace appropriate for you. Boxing can make exercise surprisingly enjoyable while challenging coordination, concentration, reactions, footwork and conditioning. And if boxing isn't something you enjoy, your program can emphasize other pillars instead.

Question 6

Do I have to do all five pillars every session?

Accepted Answer

No. The Five Pillars — Strength, Mobility, Boxing, Tai Chi and Mindset — give us a framework, not a rigid workout. One client may need more strength and mobility. Another may particularly enjoy boxing. Someone else may benefit from more balance and Tai Chi. Your priorities can also change as you progress. That's why there is no cookie-cutter Montague workout. Your goals determine the program. The Five Pillars give us the tools.

Question 7

What makes this different from hiring a regular personal trainer?

Accepted Answer

Traditional personal training often concentrates primarily on exercise. Montague Movement & Mind takes a broader approach to lifelong capability. We're interested in strength, but we're also interested in whether you can move comfortably, maintain your balance, coordinate your body, react, focus, learn new movements and remain confident in your physical abilities. And because training takes place privately in your home, there's no crowded gym, no comparison with other people, and no pressure to keep up with anyone else. For 45 minutes, the program is about you.

Question 8

Is the program supposed to be difficult?

Accepted Answer

It should be appropriately challenging — not punishing. There is an important difference between challenging the body enough to encourage improvement and simply exhausting someone. We aren't measuring success by how much you sweat or how sore you are tomorrow. We look for improvements in things such as strength, movement, mobility, balance, coordination, confidence and the ability to perform everyday activities. Some days we'll challenge you more. Other days we'll adjust the session according to how you're feeling. Progress — not punishment — is the objective.

Question 9

Is it actually supposed to be fun?

Accepted Answer

Yes. That's an important part of the philosophy. Training shouldn't feel like something you dread three times a week. Focus mitts, movement challenges, Tai Chi, reaction exercises, resistance work and even simple coordination games can make sessions engaging. You might find yourself learning a new boxing combination one minute, working on balance the next and finishing with controlled Tai Chi movement or breathing. You should work — but you should also smile, learn, succeed and enjoy yourself. Consistency matters enormously over a lifetime, and people are much more likely to continue doing something they enjoy.

Question 10

What is the ultimate goal of Montague Movement & Mind?

Accepted Answer

The ultimate goal isn't six-pack abs, becoming a boxer, lifting the heaviest weight or competing with someone half your age. It's lifelong capability. We want to help you develop and preserve the physical and mental abilities that allow you to continue doing the things that make your life meaningful — travelling, golfing, gardening, walking, climbing stairs, carrying groceries, playing with grandchildren, pursuing hobbies and maintaining your independence.

Your Questions, Answered

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