A Brutally Honest Review of the Ido Portal Method

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Hey Guys! Thanks so much for all the engagement, discussion, and kind messages I've received from so many of you after this video (I was really expecting some hate mail for this one). It's wonderful to see the community start to organize and evolve in the direction I've been envisioning for so many years. Updates: so far, 2 things have been birthed from the release of this video. 1) A discord channel for the growing movement community! Open to more options/ideas as we grow ( discord.gg/AWSsZJejQv ) 2) In response to one of the comments below (thanks Chris!), as well as the concerns about price I raised in the video, I created the most affordable, accessible, scaleable movement training option I can think of: access to a QUALITY movement online video library. Right here on YT- prices between 10-50$/ month. If you're interested, click here ( kzbin.info/door/VNYwsrLNUjFUzcDarDdYWwjoin ) or just the 'join' button on my channel homepage to learn more. It is new and still a work in progress, but with your support I've just been able to hire more help to start cranking out more content for you guys there (and here), and the offerings + organization + system will grow and be refined greatly over time. Cheers everyone! Looking forward to the future with you all :)

[@InDisskyS131]

So to sum it all up. Ido is good at his art. Ido has little faith in anyone other than himself. Ido is a %$@&#.

[@Happy.Cabbage]

Just as an FYI - the hyperlinks doesn't work properly. The links think the ')' at the end is part of the url, when it shouldn't be. :)

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

@@Happy.Cabbage Thank you! Fixed :)

[@g.o.6379]

@@BrenTeachesMovement you should pin this message to top comments

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

@@g.o.6379 Thank you greatly! thought I did that before 😆

[@Daniel_Hochmuth]

Thank you for the video. I come from the world of traditional martial arts where idolatry, close-mindedness and cult-like mentality are a commonplace so none of this is really news to me. Ido Portal has been a great inspiration to me in terms of movement and philosophy. He is definitely unique in many ways and I guess he's entitled to charge whatever he wants (just as you said in the video). But then I think of my late kung-fu teacher who would wake up at five and drove hundred kilometers to the capital, several times per week, just so that he could teach us in person. And there were people in our school who couldn't afford the tuition and he would teach them anyway. The school was like a family. Our sifu was not internationally famous but he was a great teacher and I'll always remember him.

[@DeadShred9]

If this Ido guy is so revolutionairy he would teach for free those who want to learn . Then charge those who want to go deeper into what he teaches . Why should the Poor not be Healthy as well Ido ????????

[@BeNLaGRAiNE09]

@@DeadShred9 he has the freedom to do whatever he wants. I would LOVE to do his course but I'm not willing to pay the 5-600$/month and the 4-6 hours/day. That's my problem, not his.

[@BlackDidThis]

Pretty much word per word: you describe my Ballet teacher. The soul reason I have left martial arts and turned to dancing was her and the family she created. True: movements and philosophies are timeless to a point. But knowledge itself does not grant wisdom. And either two does not grant happiness. From what I can understand from my limited knowledge of the matters: Your teacher has taught you much more important things than basically fighting, surviving.. Or simply even using your body in the best way possible. Take away the body from the student... His arms his legs.. Put him in a chair or a bed... What do you have left that you have given them to thrive upon... the student still follow; Still live willingly? I think one can use the same analogy differently to the teachers: "Take away the financial gain... And what is it you are left with... Does the person still teach willingly?" Our school/studio was not the most known... But worth everything. On a side note: do please allow me to especially state that I liked this guy: and his view on things. I hope he gets disconnected from what it is that holds him back. Shall this be his having to pay a price of loosing his chance with if even the best body training teacher time/humanity has ever known: It is a very low price even still. At least in how I see things.

[@iamPROTOTYPE]

curious your thoughts on Ren Zhongxin kzbin.info/aero/PLF4Lx7LpR80nb82ablFRxo3xz7rgc8f6q

[@damianlund395]

@@DeadShred9 it sounds as if he contempt anyone who don't make big bucks as stupid, lazy or both.

[@fabio1212s]

Man, I just love your approach to things. Straight foward, honest, no bs. Credit and criticism when they're due. I wish more people were like this in all fields of knowledge.

[@longnguyen9839]

This is hands down the best review i've seen of any person / product/ service or thing. So balanced, fair and non-hostile. All in good faith. I have learnt a lot regarding the topic at hand and from your overall ability to communicate so well. Thank you and all the best with your mission.

[@garrettplumley]

Wow, THIS is a contribution to the culture! I've been so turned off by fitness guru's over the years. Your analysis and passion here is such a breath of fresh air! Thank you!

[@Samwisehatgewinnen]

This explains so much of what I’ve been wondering about Ido! Very enlightening. I support your push for a more collaborative, accessible movement culture! Thanks for putting yourself out there like this, it’s a bold act

[@calltorock]

Great video, it sounds like you perfectly align with my (much more limited) experience of the method. I trained at one of those official Ido gyms for 3-4 years. The positive: I learned movements that I still find useful and I now have a much more holistic approach to training than I ever did before. I think it’s complimented and improved my performance playing sports (which hilariously enough feels like a faux pas in the community). I think it’s been overall very positive to have been exposed to the practice, and I try to show the most helpful exercises to someone who would never have access. You hit the nail on the head with the type of person who can fully embrace “the practice”… someone wealthy who has an extraordinary amount of time to dedicate to training. If I were to create the archetypal Ido student.... it would be someone on the shorter side, naturally flexible, and has a trust fund. It was remarkable how many of the cliquey “in-group” of students fit into that definition. Coming to this from the Huberman podcast, I have the same issue that you have… the anti-intellectualism drove me completely insane. There was always the talk about “going deeper into the practice” with no real definition of what that meant. “Can you bounce a ball on your head 100 times? You better train for months to do it! Why? We don’t really know, but post it on Instagram!” There was zero integration or reference to modern scientific studies. I don’t expect them to be master’s level physiologists, but if you came to them with any specific questions or specific injuries you could always tell they knew about as much as a 20 year old personal trainer. For any problem or injury, movement was just the blanket answer. I spent 9+ months training to rehab an injury they assured me they could fix with movement… and it was only until I actually saw a doctor and needed surgery that it was fixed and I could actually progress. Ido likes to quote Bruce Lee “Absorb what is useful, discard what is not, add what is uniquely your own” and I feel like I’ve done that with his method. I’ve benefitted greatly from the ideas but I do not fit into the archetypal mover who can do splits, backflips, and one-arm handstands. It took years for me to stop hating myself for not getting those skills quicker and embracing the types of movements I actually enjoy. And I’ve now learned more from KZbin channels like The Bodyweight Warrior and FitnessFAQs who actually offer clear information without the cult leader baggage.

[@graziamaravalli1925]

What was your injury? And what kind of movements did you try to do with them to make it heal? Just curious about

[@annazo3742]

ward

[@DrKaushikRam]

I feel your frustration Bren and I appreciate the courage it took to speak up. I attended Ido's workshop back in 2013-2015. Your review of the program is spot on, fair and well rounded.

[@AaronCheck-dx3ud]

Your monologue gripped me from start to finish, well researched, well stated, and a lot of excellent insights. Thank you! And yes, it is true, community is what stokes the flames and keeps them burning.

[@beniskillen]

This is absolutely incredible. I am so incredibly grateful to have stumbled across your work. As someone who has studied movement science for the better part of 15 years, gained a university degree & put over 10,000 hours into my sport I've been well aware of the shortcomings of the mainstream movement methods. I knew that movement was the way forward. Modern society needs this as part of it's lexicon to truly reach a state of optimal being. Yet I never quite knew how to piece it all together. I'm so incredibly grateful for your distillation of wisdom in all of your videos. I also completley agree with your vision (I am an example of the kind of person that wanted to train with Ido, yet could never truly access it). I will be following you very closely & helping spread this message. With love from Sydney Australia ❤

[@Bonowombo]

A very intelligent review! I have been searching for the best way to stay in shape all my life (I´m now 49) and of course you notice Ido Portal if you are looking for inspiration. His "culture" is mind-expanding and his students are great. However, here is what bothers me personally: My goal is to be in good shape and healthy in order to be a happier, more relaxed being. Not move as much and in as many ways as possible just for the sake of moving 😜 Ido has incredible skills, but he does not seem relaxed or happy and - as you kind of described - is more of a very skilled, but obsessed and mercyless king. So, in my view he fails in using his own system because it should make him a greater person when he is not training. About Ido, a great "anti-guru"-quote may be true: "Believe those who are seeking the truth, doubt those who found it". David Belle for example changed the "moving culture" in a more modest way and without ever wanting to be king. Still, maybe Ido is a genius. And for all geniuses, in long term it is more about what they achieved than how they were. It does not really matter if Bach, Picasso, Steve Jobs, Bruce Lee or John Lennon were idiots, they changed the world. Will you say this about Ido Portal one day? Who knows.

[@fernandez_mnpwr]

This is an incredibly important video for the future of not only movement but the health, wellbeing and longevity of the general public. You're doing great things brother

[@11Garrett11]

Around 2015 I drove seven hours to LA to do an ‘Ido Portal experience’ workshop. But he wasn’t there. I had been talking to the owner of the CrossFit gym who sponsored the event many times because dropping over $700 was a lot for me. He literally said, “how much money would you spend to train with Bruce Lee for the weekend?” He didn’t ask me how much money I would spend to train with Bruce Lee’s assistants. I also convinced a friend to come with me so I was mortified that Ido wasn’t there. I left when I found out he wasn’t there and demanded a refund. I went out into my car and emailed his team immediately and they said no refund. I started posting on the Facebook event page for the New York workshop that was happening the following weekend to tell people that Ido wouldn’t be there. People were responding that they were shocked. And then Ido‘s team started deleting all of our messages in real time because they were hiding something. I think he is a shady businessman to say the least. This was dishonest to a huge degree. And I lost all respect for him in that moment. I still think he’s brilliant but I know him & his team as COMPLETELY dishonest. They do not want transparency. People private messaged me from that New York group thanking me for making it clear that he wouldn’t be there - many tried to cancel because they didn’t want to go if he wasn’t there either. Just left an incredibly bad taste in my mouth. Terrible business. Very sad.

[@inactiveair4680]

It says Ido Portal is not guaranteed to show up at these events when you purchase the ticket.

[@youthserg9066]

I was one of the many good hearted and well intentioned folks at the NY one that also didn't know he wouldn't be there. I only came from a nearby US based stated (only a drive in) and I was still really upset. I stayed, but I shouldn't have. It was absolutely not worth more than maybe $200 for all the "novelty" shared. I am totally okay with anybody making fun of me saying "oh, so you would be okay having paid $500 more just if Ido was there?" and the answer is YES. Ido was hugely influential to me. Shit, I would actually say a heartfelt THANK YOU to Ido if I ever actually met him because he was a very good influence. But... he also made me think through disappointment (don't you fucking dare turn that into a positive, cultists! lol) and made me learn to analyze my "idols" so to speak... but yeah man, way too expensive and they ended up separating people into abilities to you literally could NOT learn the higher level skills (how to build up to them or advance them) if you didn't already "own" a previous skill. I could observe, since we were all in the same room, but not quite learn. Also, they made it a fucking workout (I guess I'm okay with this... an experience if you will) but I didn't feel as though the learning was there. I'm sure they'd argue I would learn best through doing repeatedly, but when you're there for a weekend, and they don't let you fucking record or nothing besides takea few notes, it was hard to walk away with "real shit"...

[@youthserg9066]

@@inactiveair4680 hahah but it fucking DIDN'T when he signed up - that was a measure taken after people like the one you responded sounded the horn.

[@alejandrogn4]

Haha wow.

[@11Garrett11]

@@inactiveair4680 maybe you could read my post again. I talked to the owner of the gym who was sponsoring it (no doubt getting a cut) and he told me Ido was going to be there. We had many lengthy discussions. There was no doubt in his mind or my mind that Ido would be there. Ido is synonymous with shady/dishonest business, 100% on many levels.

[@Sustainavore]

Bren, this is incredible. Way to have the courage to make it. This is why, we the "movement whores" who continue to train and learn from other teachers and take it back to our students get to continue loving movement. As much as I love Ido's work, everything you laid out is why I give massive caveats to anyone wanting to explore the work. I tore a tendon in my wrist training with Ido's team for 6 hours a day. The concept of being a movement generalist and avoiding specialist injuries is complete bullshit when you look at the training they encourage. Don't ask any questions though, just do the work and build capacity... 🧐. This is far and away the most honest review of Ido out there.

[@zoidfreakvoidwalker1687]

I hope you are recovering well. I am furious and sad on your behalf because Ido seems to believe there is a method for truth. But truth is a pathless land and life is process, change and movement - no one can own it. While we do need principles they only serve as guidelines, rules to enable freedom, not specify an idealized sequence. If a rule causes harm it loses it's purpose. The limits are our minds and bodies and those need to be respected and everyone are at different stages in various ways, much progress is relative to the individual. Adaptability and flow, be like water my fiend. All the best.

[@Sustainavore]

@@zoidfreakvoidwalker1687 well said! And thank you. Unfortunately, my injury is not something that can currently be healed, and the surgical outcome is unacceptable to me. My only hope is to do stem cell treatment at this point until better surgical options come available. My experience, and those of others i know who've trained online with Ido's team paint a story of dogma and authoritarian delivery of principles without enough regard for the student and where they're at. While I can take responsibility for pushing myself too far, Ido espouses an approach where in person coaching is the only way forward. That breaks down in online coaching with mentorship students who don't have the time or care to understand their students. There is a great deal to be desired from the experience. The novelty and rigorous demand placed on students seems to be the biggest draw because the method is not the best way to achieve results--over training is a fundamental principle in his approach, he wreaks it on his students and seems to have seriously damaged his own body in applying it to himself as well. I certainly agree with you that his path to truth is not THE path to truth.

[@normanquednau]

Thank you for this amazing video and the dedication! I am 53 and i wont probably meet the basic exercises required by Ido ever. But I know i can become a good mover. Well and the prices... So I am excited what you have to offer. Kind regards from Germany, Bren

[@lorainisrael]

I've only heard about Ido the first time today. Always wanted for such an idea to exist so checked his website and youtube channel. And it was clear that something is wrong, that it is a stagnation. Almost no activity online, no regular posts, no sharing with true beginners. Now your video explains it all. You're right, this idea should be in a free flow, it should attract people to combine their knowledge, experiment, create and try out new things, and not to be converted into a cult.

[@Huange._.]

I’m in awe of your bravery to make this video haha. It was really cool to see you take such a bold stance in the movement community. Even though I don’t really know much about Ido, I think that he’s a pretty amazing guy for what he’s done, but I like what you said about being open to ideas and teaching movement to more people! 🔥👍

[@digitalsa8nt]

Truth is not always easy to digest the first or even the second time around. Being sincere, clear, and specific with key questions makes this video a pleasure to hear, shows what you’d love to see happen and shows respect. Kudos for a well formulate and thoughtful video.

[@Mike-rg2iy]

hey man, I've a lot of respect for you sharing that perspective! Very straight forward, simple, honest and without being held back by potential backlash - thank you Bren!

[@CrackaLackaHacka]

Ido trained gymnastics in-person under Christopher Sommer for several years. He just repackaged it into some philosophical BS and applied the exceptional athleticism that all gymnasts have to other fields.

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Sommer is great, but I have serious critiques of his methodology as well, and movement is far, far more than just repurposed gymnastics.

[@CrackaLackaHacka]

​@@BrenTeachesMovement Yes, there is more to movement than gymnastics. But at least based on the videos he puts out, much of the amazing feats people learn under him are common gymnastics moves. Why? The reason is already mentioned in one of your previous videos: If you take athletes from all different sports, the gymnast would be able to do everything you do almost as well as you can, but you wouldn't be able to do what they do at all. So obviously if you want to be a jack of all trades, you will focus heavily on the discipline that will most enable you to do that. I look forward to more of your content. Thanks!

[@Bushidoka89]

Thank you for your courage and the information you provide. I've never taken a course, but many of Ido's ideas and the paradigms of movement culture have already had an impact on my perspective and approach to life. I've always wished there were more physical locations and classes available. Having lived in China for almost 4 years now through lockdowns and all else, listening to my body and when it needs movement has been a tremendous help. Keep teaching!

[@gabrielvasiliu]

This is the first time I ever saw one of your videos. I had no idea you even exist. But everything you say is really resonating on the same wavelength with what I can see myself. I think that it has to be a shift of focus from being super special to being available and present in as many peoples life as possible. Otherwise you are just the leader of a secretive sect. It is very brave that you are coming out and speak in that way. And do not be afraid. For every people that will look bad or critical at what you say there are hundreds and hundreds others that are glad that finally someone is starting to talk.

[@robertwhite2449]

Probably the best critique I've seen of Ido's system yet. I would love to learn under Ido's system, but just not from Ido. The guy is clearly one of the best all rounders out there but he seems to be an egotistical elitist cult leader, and for me personally I could not spend large amounts of time with some like that under any voluntary circumstance. It such a shame that he has made his own amazing discoveries so inaccessible

[@GrowFromLife]

I've been following Ido since around 2012 I think I've always wanted to structurally train in movement, like I can for example with martial arts but I could never find a comfortable way/place to do it, and I happen to be from Israel myself.. what I ended up doing in the first years, when I was in high-school, is absorbing EVERYTHING I could from his videos and interviews later, I started practicing under some of his former students.. I am of course no professional, but this practice, however shakily-structured it is, eventually - brought a TON of value to my life, and for that - I have to and will always be grateful to Ido.

[@eshaansharma280]

This man is one of the rarest teachers who actually cares about his students. Courses and teachings are pocket friendly, Understandable in a practical and scientific sense, Creates such elaborate but still easy to understand videos. I totally support your cause.

[@conanmcelduff3709]

At the expense of becoming a bren fanboy, I love your channel. I've never been to an ido event. But through his interviews and online content, he's sparked an interest and perspective that I have absolutely loved and benefitted from. Only for ido, I'd never have found you. I'll never shit on ido. He's changed my perspective. And for that I'm forever grateful. Let's move!

[@kmichaeljoseph6529]

Thank you for this honest assessment. Like many who first come to Ido, I was fascinated and already Have more body awareness than anytime in my life. On the other hand , I have an instinctive mistrust for cult s of personality. As much as I've gained, some things kept bugging me. I think you nailed some if it. I still hope to separate and appreciate the beauties of his teachings.

[@bassinblue]

I remember when I heard of the 'Movement' culture. I really wanted to join, but WOW is it insanely expensive. The lack of accessibility made me disillusioned with the idea as a whole, so I opted for Muay Thai. Years later, I'm more athletic than I have ever been, but you are right about Ido as a whole. I remember when it was slightly rising in popularity, but then dissipated very quickly and everyone just moved on from it...Connor McGregor cutting ties with Ido didn't help either. Sometimes, we are our worst enemy.

[@MagickArmory]

I would also say even less ppl would know about Ido if it weren't for Conor MacGregor

[@EdenMardix]

Thank you Bren. I think it's a good thing you have opened up about this topic and shared your opinion. I agree with you and your vision of a movement community, and I'm very glad to see that some teachers in the field are starting to shift towards a more welcoming and open minded structure. It would be great to see you lead some kind of events or a training facility in the future, and I'd love to take part and train/study with you.

[@petemitchel9191]

I did one of idos training camps and I loved it. But like you said I’m to poor and don’t have the time to experience more then what I did. But as a martial artist it never really mattered. I’ve always had a mind set like Bruce lee. Take what works. Discard what doesn’t. I’ll never conform to one persons system. I’ll learn what works for me then break it down into its different parts.

[@OneirologicAlliance]

Thanks for this video Bren! I love your attitude towards this- Just discovered Ido through his vertical shake video and had a good time with it, but had a dark feeling that he was profiteering off other established, underfunded cultures. Open collaboration and research is so important for progress and is really what separates plain business from exploitation. Like the society he hails from Ido joins a long line of shady appropriators, happy to have discovered your channel and will be following you from here on

[@elfrogtrainer]

Great review Bren. A wise person will be quick to listen and reflect. I have been following, since the beginning, but am one of those who "cannot afford it". The first time I inquired about the workshops was the last. It all came down to practice, failure, improvisation, and practice again. Budokon and Movnat are two others that I have followed for years...and just as Ido...are not very accessible financially. The establishment of a movement community is necessary, 10-4. Peace.

[@Octeris]

Your videos are incredibly helpful and thoughtful. Your breadth AND depth of knowledge is extremely valuable. Thank you for sharing with us. I particularly appreciate you shining a light on recent relevant research as a branching off point for further exploration.

[@howiestyles4938]

it's hard for me to put a finger on what bothers me about ido portal, because he does provide good information and have skill, but i think you've managed to point it out well. it's way the he leverages his ability to maximize profit, and yet strategically position himself to be untested and relevant without being open to being exposed. as a practitioner of dance (breakdancing) for 16 years, i got inspired by his movement quality and knowledge and adopted some of his squat mobility base, barefoot moving, transitions from basic positions as a healthier form of movement...but this is an art that has masters in different skillsets at the highest level of human ability, yet people still remain humble because it is so directly competitive with each other. i can tell Ido have a big ego with a solid skillset, but he never competes with anyone directly with his movement quality which i find odd. in martial arts, dance, etc, competition is where you find out who is who and where people rank, and yet ido charges an insane amount for his workshops but conveniently positions himself to never be tested. he'd say its a lifestyle and not about competition or specialization and its important to be open-minded, and yet it would be hard for him to come to the terms that though he has impressive abilities- he's not actually good at the elite level of competitive movement arts. it's like teaching martial arts but you've never beaten anybody or have an effective record. i couldn't understand why people would pay him so much to learn basics, when i personally know masters of the game that are world-class and have been competitively relevant for decades, and are barely scraping by business-wise. ido definitely has a talent for business. and that's the hypocrisy in his approach, because he preaches a generalized/open set of skills for exploring movement quality, and yet he never even mentions dance, (which has been a metric for movement quality for thousands of years) because he simply is not proficient at dance and probably does not want to look novice at it to his students. when you never compete, you will never understand where you stand in the bigger picture of effectiveness and levels. though he has impressive ability, the truth is- many, many others do as well. only, they do not structure their influence to maximize profit, and they often welcome people to challenge them for the sake of remaining relevant in the ever-evolving levels of their craft. if he's so good, how come there is no way to see just how good he is through an exchange or contest? he shies away from this alot, whereas alot of other movement arts find this aspect integral in maintaining relevance.

[@enjayflave]

Imagine teaching a new form of jiu jitsu and charging thousands of dollars, but your instructor never allows you to roll with him or question his ways, and he himself has never beaten anyone and has a 0-0 record. People can see how “good” ido is, yet you can’t really assess how good he is because he never puts his skill to test against others. Real high quality movement arts excel through discourse, live exchanges, metrics of value through judging systems. He wouldn’t charge so much if he were really for the culture. And he wouldn’t structure his teachings like this if he were really confident in his position in the craft. He’s a big fish in a small pond and that pond is drying up.

[@joelategan]

Well said. I feel the same

[@howiestyles4938]

@@joelategan and to make it worse, his followers pay so much money but the skills are only applicable if its used as a background for other skillsets, say gymnastics, other movement arts, martial arts etc. you're not going to the Olympics with his teaching. he says it's a generalized, broad range of thinking and movement, but his teaching structure is actually pretty rigid and not open to evolution and criticism. when you don't treat your community right, it will never grow. and better communities that overlap can see through that aspect immediately. you'll never see a jiu jitsu mentor charge thousands for his workshops but never roll with anyone.

[@markharen7172]

Brilliant constructive criticism Bren! The top-down authoritarian aspect of the old movement culture has always been a major turn-off to many. Really happy to see you talking about the need for a more communitarian approach. This is the way.

[@RPanda3S]

-

[@eveziroglu]

​@@RPanda3S Hello my friend. By communitarian, Mark is implying an approach that recognizes contributions of community members and that focuses on building a positive community environment rather than a follow-the-leader approach (in this case specifically described as "top-down authoritarian"). Sorry for the misunderstanding. We want to encourage thinking positively about what others are saying here and clarify when something sounds confusing or unusual. Thanks

[@RPanda3S]

@@eveziroglu I see. That makes a lot more sense. I should have understood the contrast with "authoritarian" but I don't know what I was thinking. Sorry for the abrasive comment.

[@pkmasavideoblog2284]

I have sooooo much respect for you for creating this video. Movement is a powerful tool that can change lives. We never met in person but hope to meet you in person and move together. Much love from Japan.

[@michaelh9875]

Great vid! We're all here to start learning from you man

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Daww. Thanks Michael! :)

[@jpnnstrps]

Bren, this was so helpful ! And so much nuance and consideration to being accurate forthcoming. Thank you

[@cameronmiller6240]

So I took one class with Ido (although it was taught by Yonathan and Odelia). They were both very patient and passionate about movement (and clearly amazing athletes), we even went to dinner with them (they generously left us the bill too...) if I was being negative I would say 1) there were too many people in the class, like at least two or possibly three times too many for us to get real practical coaching from the teachers, I guess you could say they wanted to help as many people as possible but maybe money was also a factor? 2) Some of the lessons were pretty obvious (train your rotator cuffs to prevent shoulder injury) and are actually mainstream fitness knowledge (or at least should be). Also this wasn't really anyones fault but there was one or two guys who showed up with the whole ponytail and goatee thing and that was pretty fucking cultlike.

[@busyrand]

Hahaha!... The ponytail and goatee comment made my day! Hahahahahahaha...

[@fitness60plus52]

the ponytail thing is a deep observation. it looks like the IP movements is transitioning towards a hippy-newage-guru lead community. in such cases, two things are gone forever: objectivity, and humbleness.

[@strawhatalex00]

Thanks for the video. This actually made me view Ido more positively. It's hard to articulate, but too few educators focus on delivering content in a proven way and listen inordinately (perhaps even obsessively research) the latest "science" as it evolves in real time. Some things are best kept simple. And yet I agree with you that optimizing movement is somewhere in-between. Thanks again for the video. Cheers.

[@samuelaarnio7920]

Great accountability and a show of courage to stand your own ground. This is what a teacher does.

[@bloodwolf2685]

I'm really interested in how tempo training is outdated. Do you have any sources I can look up? Loved the video brother!

[@hervehaddad341]

Hi Bren, do you think we can start at 60 years old if we are too stiff, but if we want to recover or improve mobility in a new way. If you do worshop let me know, i think it’s a good think to bring over 50 people back to mobility, because i know that life can be tremendous increased in ourself and further too in good mental and physical health, good luck and honesty is always a door to the light.

[@gmy33]

Thankyou !!!! These words confirm my thoughts .. i only saw him for 3 days and practise movement for 5 years .. ido is an authistic narcicist.. he cant live in his own system .. but his mentor students gripped me and gave me air !!

[@MafuHardy]

I agree with your mission. Movement needs a community and it needs to aim to help as many people as possible. Not just those that can afford it and not just those fit enough to embark on hardcore training.

[@greggmitchell2880]

Thank you for your very accurate, and yet personal experience how a culture grows: only in multitude of boundless potentiality. You said it "it's about community building' not ego building' Anyway, all Ido Portal work is based on the Feldenkrais Method taking it more into the world of movement with the integration of all the other forms of disciplines and movement. It was created by the genius Moshe Feldenkrais, an Israeli, a nuclear physicist-electrical-engineer- judo teacher-master of movement potentials for the very sick, holocaust's survivors, injured, brain-damaged by birth or accidents. I've been a Feldenkrais Practitioner for the last 26 years it literally save my life and woke me up of all the infinite potentialities of human movement, learning, creativity, improvisation and maturation. I'll be 64 soon, with a history serious injuries from ballet, dance, yoga but my movement repertoire is boundless now, and my injuries-constraints are a conduit for a more intelligent-sensitive solutions that's fun, interesting, playful experimentation. If I did Ido's work, I've be a complete wreck since I have hyperflexible joints that pop out, I need flexible-stability. As Moshe and his teacher J.D. Krishnamurti said 'it's an effortless effort', the subtlest, micro movement that's done gently and slowly can have much greater impact on our nervous system than the fast, powerful ones since the former it's always regenerative and the latter can be injurious, if you keep on doing with the same attitude and force...you only force: "make the impossible possible, that's graceful, easy and aesthetically pleasing. Generalists(have a lot more creative solutions than experts), autonomous with respect-regards of others, a pathless path that you can only make as you play-walk through this amazing life according to your present state, whomever who wishes to participate-it's open to all. Hooray to the democratization of movement for everyone! That's what Feldenkrais created some 70 years ago in Israel.

[@picsbyshrey]

Wow. This was an excellent dissemination and constructive critique. This is a clear example of people who are most passionate in their fields have the most vocal criticism BECAUSE THEY KNOW WHAT THEY'RE TALKING ABOUT and want better for the movement (of movement) and not their own ideas.

[@oshunblack6883]

It comes down to who you are as a human being. Remember actions speak louder than words.. Yes ido can do what he likes and charge what he likes. But when you know as a human being, you have knowledge that can benefit peoples lives, re shape them, heal them or make the biological machine "better" and you choose to take it away from people and make it only accessible to a few with money for your own gain, then you know the person your dealing with is not genuine in his mission to help people.

[@HeyCupertino]

Goods and services

[@copyninja8756]

He puts out a lot of free content. If you want more you pay

[@lyondhur]

Mate, am I just delighted I've found your take and channel.. Ka pai from New Zealand.

[@chrisplayz253]

Have u thought about an affordable online training system bren? I'd be up for that

[@alisyasashin]

Second! I'm interested in that too

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Thanks Chris. This is an interesting idea that I honestly haven't put too much thought into. How would you guys like imagine this (I'd love to hear from as many people as possible)? I think the most affordable idea I could do would be a video library similar to keenanonline (for those in the BJJ community). I think my main goal has been being able to start a facility where people could come and train (and ideally live), while also continuing to post valuable/important findings and research on this channel for you guys.

[@alisyasashin]

@@BrenTeachesMovement the most affordable way I see is similar to bjj type of video library. Broken down to 3 groups ; Beginners, Intermediate, Pro. With step by step instructions and clear guidelines for where and when is good to improvise and research. Having homework also seems like a good way to really drill in the practice. Also, creating a reddit group where community interacts also seems like a good way to evolve the community discussion and growth. All and all, really interested in a online community of like minded individuals who are into movement culture.

[@brintobabu8027]

Then count me in as third. I want to learn about the movement mechanics, how to train an injured bodypart, how to develop movement flows etc. I just want your whole knowledge if possible 😜.

[@Bushidoka89]

@@BrenTeachesMovement Movement culture as a whole also seems particularly open to a wide range of outdoor events. Sometimes the perceived need for an idealized venue can drive costs much higher than necessary. Nature can provide its beauty without being prohibitively expensive.

[@AlejandroMarin.design]

We should thank Ido for delivering Movement, but if he is not going to be the leader we need, then we need to take it from him and move on. I train with one of his students in my city. He is as disappointed as you seem to be. In an absence of leadership, fill the void! It seems like you are up for it Bren! You have my votes!

[@usher812]

Damn thank you so so much for this video, it really really speaks to me. My movement journey is both enlightening and frustrating due to the many pitfalls of MoveCult. Like you, I have felt something transformational in movement that I really hope to share with more people, and Movement Community is something that really needs to be grown and developed. Ironically, Ido claims to want a 'culture' which is in many sense larger than a 'community', yet he despises the 'general public' or simply people outside of his own closed circle. I love the message of your video and hope good things will develop in the future!

[@Honeybee-ym5vi]

I just encountered Ido's videos at 74 years old. I'm intrigued because I like the concept of free, flowing movement as opposed to movement taught (even yoga, etc.) within a patterned form. I think what you describe about the central character of any movement is not unusual. At my age, I've seen this scenario countless times in the past with all types of human activities. When I join anything, I'm extremely observant how the central figure is regarded. No one's a saint, and no one's a savior. I think Ido can develop his craft as he sees fit, and you can do the same. We are all different and thrive with different approaches and perspectives. History is replete with examples of movements and schools who split and took different paths. Good luck!

[@gmy33]

Yep .. the best thing about crazymonkey is not ido portal .. its the moving and learning together !! This aspect is not persued by ido for all his practissioners .. i did a 3 day workshop with him and he didnt move did not enthise me only talked about himself and his money .. so yeah 4 years of crazy monkey and i miss him like .... no i m happy i m not around him

[@kristianhoiland1147]

If you want freedom, variability of movement and an open minded culture you should check out the breaking scene, its beautiful. Thanks for daring to speak up, great stuff.

[@christianvance2266]

This should be getting more attention than it is. Good video

[@moudhaffarsaidi9457]

I was thinking about these same issues for the last year at least. My vision was some kind of peer reviewed forum where movers share their findings and theories to be criticised, tested and improved by other movers, not for amateurs and people with questions, but for movement "researchers". Yes, that's the structure of academia, and that's the point. There exists a number of giants in each discipline but the structure is not pyramidal, everyone could bring up something new and it is all done for the benefit of all. That's my view of how movement culture should be.

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Beautiful Moudhaffar, I agree 100%, although it could be tricky to 'test things' at the event- i.e. a new handstand method might take at least a few months to test. Although, we could have people test things before the meeting- not just look at this new method that's really revolutionary, but here's my new method, I ran it on 6 people, 3x/ week, for 3 months, and this is the result they achieved. like you said, I think we need to get way closer to the established structure of academia, though not necessarily` inside of it. I'd love to have some sort of annual movement conference- that would be an absolute dream :).

[@moudhaffarsaidi9457]

@@BrenTeachesMovement it's just a seed of an idea to make us think of ways to develop movement culture. And I'd love to attend a movement conference if it ever happens.

[@chariscampbell6098]

Wow, I guess this came up in my feed because someone told me about ido and I checked it out briefly.. exploring movement a lot lately this was a great video to come across I’ll be following you much more thanks! 🙏

[@jamesatkinson5805]

Great video! I came across Ido years ago on some youtube videos and interviews from podcasts etc., long before he met Conor Mc Gregor, and i had known that he had a wide range of martial arts that he had studied also. But, like you mentioned, if you want to learn from him it's too prohibitive for most people and it's a shame. Also by spreading in a manor that makes sense, not only would he still become wealthy, like your analogy of John Danaher, the amount of Jiu Jistsu schools available and competitions is what led to this surge in new techniques along with the refinement of existing techniques.

[@zenlifestyleandmannersshow6892]

You are a godsend, Bren. You really hit the nail on the head!

[@vanessarhythmic]

Honestly I used to not like him until I actually met him. Once I met him I loved him he really knows what he talking about I didn’t get vibe that he had an ego at all. He seemed genuine

[@intellectualninjamonkey2496]

That was an amazing critical thinking review. And although I understand (just by listening to his interviews) that indeed Ido must have a big ego, I really think that your final statement that he is 10 times the leader Glassman is, is very accurate.

[@Unitedstatesian]

Well-researched and supported arguments! I can see that it comes from a place of love for Movement and a goal to make broader change. Good luck! I hope you achieve your goals!

[@busyrand]

Excellent video. I'm just now starting to slim down enough to access some of these movements and always found Ido's stuff inaccessible. I didn't even know what he did had a name, and it was called Movement Culture.

[@alisyasashin]

I can see why Ido didn't want to go mainstream, I can only imagine the hard work he dedicated so he didn't want the masses to dilute his work. However, look at Gracie's jiu-jitsu. With the right system, coaching, movement could go far. Movement culture needs to happen. With baby steps, I can truly see it takes off similar to parkour culture at one point. I guess thats his strength and downfall, his obsession and ego. The only way I see someone practicing movement is finding a coach nearby or research online.

[@howiestyles4938]

the big difference between ido's approach and jiu jitsu, perhaps one of many is that ido's interpretation of movement art is not competitive- whereas jiu jitsu is. competition is the live exchange of ideas, and the leveraging of skillsets to see who and what techniques are most effective in a given moment. ido's format will never be competitive because it would threaten his relevance then he won't be able to charge obscene amounts for his workshops. there's plenty of practitioners of movement arts that are far more proficient that ido and have been competing for a long time, and yet would never charge so much for workshops, because they know most people just won't be able to afford it.

[@dougt4283]

@@howiestyles4938 Who are these practitioners that are more proficient? I've been trying to find someone to train with and just out of curiosity.

[@howiestyles4938]

@@dougt4283 well, as someone with a dance background (breakdancing for 16 years), i immediately saw the potential in ido, but also the contradictions. dance has long been the staple for movement quality for thousands of years, and yet ido almost never touches on the craft which i find odd. so in terms of masters in movement and proficiency, just about every style of movement there's a higher level "master". ido is sort of a jack of all trades with a background in capoiera, gymnastics, hand balancing, and some other martial arts i'm not sure of. i don't understand how someone can preach the importance of movement culture and movement in general but almost completely ignore dance and the movement quality of those arts. also, its an obvious movement art that he just doesn't have a background in so he glances over for the sake of marketing. but yeah, even studying proper running mechanics, basic boxing fundamentals, any form of dance, yoga...there's alot of movement arts with avenues of competition outside of what ido pushes that can be very rewarding to tap into. jiu jitsu too but its more high impact.

[@howiestyles4938]

@@dougt4283 and bro...all these other movement forms are competitive. if ido were to dismiss them somehow because he's ignorant, then its very easy to dismiss him too. who's ido beat competitively with his craft? how can he rank himself so high when he's never competed against anyone? all these other arts remain humble and growing because they're competitive and it keeps people fresh and in check...i don't understand how ido justifies charging people so much money when he's never tested himself against anyone in the movement culture. would you learn jiu jitsu from someone that charges 20x more than other schools, and this teacher has zero background in competition and doesn't allow you to roll with him? i think not.

[@random42687]

Very much thank you for the video. I was always a fan of Ido, but never understood the unwillingness to talk and teach publicly.

[@Motherkuen]

All people have good and bad qualities about them no matter who they are. You learn from them what you choose and continue on your journey. If movement is in your blood, you find a way to do it even if you have to do it alone.

[@Maplebeatz]

You are great! Thank you for the enlightenment, motivation and inspiration.♥

[@wildseedtheron]

The beauty of culture is that no one owns it. Every person who is exposed to a new culture immediately can take the elements that work for them and leave the ones that don’t. We all are building culture whether we realize it or not. I am grateful to all those who have influence the culture that I create around me. A wise man once told me if someone is not creating something you think should be created that is an indication that you should go create it. We should never wait for others to create the vision that we see so clearly.

[@compressedairsaving9601]

Thank You for the video, May we have the link to the video you referred about motor learning

[@thuglaza4728]

I think you brought up some very valid points, and argued them in an understandable way from multiple perspectives including Ido's. This was a very fair review. You should not get blacklisted for this, and if you do they just proved how cultist they are.

[@sanchenburg]

Great video bro! Very brave. I couldn't agree more with your points there. The irony of his approach is that it has prohibited the growth of this culture to any significant degree. Discussions like this will go a long way towards opening the culture up and bringing new people into it.

[@fyakin4737]

Good insights and points that confirm alot of what it has looked on the outside atleast, thanks for sharing 💗

[@charlierogers5864]

I definitely put off watching this video because of the inspiration I've gained from Ido's ideas. However, Your perspective was a refreshing surprise. I really appreciate your thoughtful ideas on how the movement culture needs to change directions to continue to move forward. I think Ido would agree that a movement culture can't and shouldn't be centralized around one person and taking steps to make these ideas more accessible and have research being done from people of different backgrounds seems really important. Thank you for this video, it's spurred a lot of ideas in me and I'm excited that you are broadening this community.

[@mikaelvelli]

He is absolutely right. I know from experience. Thank you for a great video breakdown.

[@adrianomarramirez]

Could you give me the reference of the graph you showed when you mentioned Ted Butryn? I am a psychologist and a personal trainer, so I would be very interested in delving into these topics. Thank you! Greetings from Argentina.

[@ashscott6068]

High prices "weed out wankers" now? LMAO. Surrrrre. Golf clubs and casinos are full of the best people on Earth!

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Rofl

[@lesliebobb6011]

Great video! Can't wait to check out your intro series

[@escueladeartesemocionales]

Thank you for speaking so honestly. That takes a lot of courage.

[@KBNZ83]

I’ve met someone who if you host at your gym, you get banned by Ido. They hadn’t even met each other and he had no idea what it was about.

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Crazy but I don't doubt it- he really approaches movement from a zero sum, scarcity mindset as far as business operations.

[@cordellsenior9935]

Great honesty, passion, sincerity and content. I applaud your mission. I've seen first hand, the "wu-wuh guru" effect charismatic leaders can have on rank and file people who adore and worship influencers. I used to marvel at the REVERENCE people used to direct to (in person) Choudry Bikram when was cornering the hot yoga market in 2001 - 2011. Similar elements; a man or person with something solid and beneficial to offer to people,. Because "it" is real and resonates with many, he, or she becomes revered. When that happens, most often it becomes a checkbook to write almost limitle$$ influence and power over those worshipers. And that kind of power (power of the pulpit) corrupts absolutely.

[@gohighhustle]

Ido has essentially taken other peoples' work and called it his own. HIs work is clearly an amalgamation of Gymnastics Bodies; Systema; and Capoeira, essentially. Ido sounds a lot like Naudi Aguilar of Functional Patterns. Naudi consistently shits on everyone else in the fitness/movement industry, and it's a huge shame because he has built such an awesome system.

[@Leydzin]

This video should hopefully be getting more popular as Huberman just released the interview with him.

[@jamesmunroe6558]

Great video! Can you please link us to the screen-time document shown at 12:34?

[@gabrieljones4866]

We all determine our own level of involvement. I say be eclectic, as with all things - take what you want, need and that which serves and leave the rest. Seek elders you feel called and compelled to emulate, in every way and to take the uniqueness of who you are beyond. If you want to take something to the next level then become the change you desire others to bestow by way of example I say. We're all here to learn, that is the truth of our nature. All the embodiment of such manoeuvres as with wisdom are innate and await discovery.

[@Need-For-Swede]

Great breakdown and well put! I would love to see the movement culture become more mainstream and accessible. Looking forward to your other videos and possibly becoming a student of your method.

[@michipeter5631]

Hi Bren, Great video! I think you are 100 percent right with what you say, it s a pitty it is so hard to access Ido s content and that there are nearly no movement-gyms... I would love to train in a place like that, but there is none in my region... Keep up your good and honest work! Thanks Michi

[@kristopherbowman1672]

I don’t know shit about the movement culture or anything… but this was an unbelievably well articulated, thought out and respectful criticism, personal account and observation. I don’t know you brother but you’ve got a new subscriber. Oss.

[@jamesallen6309]

Could the Alexander Technique and my favourite, the Feldenkrais Method, be considered as a similar component to some of Ido's teachings? Ironically Moshé Feldenkrais, the founder had similar human frailties that Ido has.

[@krusonator9577]

Normally don’t write comments, but I really appreciate your channel. 👏

[@idoaviv5130]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Good luck with your mission

[@ikanny6967]

Thnx for speaking out! Totally agree with all of that!

[@mikeshafer]

This is great, thanks Bren. I have been wanting to join the movement culture for a while but it does feel fairly esoteric and distant. I'm hoping I can undo 30 years of sitting at a desk on a computer and focus more on flexibility and movement. The idea of jumping straight into deadlifts and snatches does not appeal to me (and I did Crossfit for years). I just want to move more fluidly. Let's start a movement movement!

[@bradsbroadcast]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thoughtful, provocative and presents as honest, genuine and concerned for the right reasons (ie. the advancement of knowledge and improvement of health and fitness for all). Well Done Bren.... Five Stars all the way! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@BrenTeachesMovement]

Thank you Brad!

[@LBforTRUTH]

Wow, I sure wish more people could back up their opinions the way you have, both with science and grace. Well done 👍

[@aberwood]

As someone who loves marketing, i have to respect Idos ability to make himself the wise infallible wizard.

[@srserpicol]

A Very thoughtful and thorough analysis , I learn so much about the subject, it’s flaws and it’s potentials, you sparked an interest within me, to learn more of movement and the movement community… thank you…

[@dramastudiobordeaux8058]

Ido doesn't have a monopoly on movement. He's created a system, a philosophy, a style and you're paying for it. Good luck. He's just in it for the money. No different to Bikram.

[@fabian22556]

Interessting and possibly true. I like the short view on sport psychology.Has Ido replied to this? You talked about it? Greets

[@pedroleal758]

Thanks for your sincerity, Bren! And for the effort of sharing your knowledge here. That's very precious. I agree that it's a shame the lack of reach movement culture has in the public. It could be a lot bigger if it was less elitist... And your job goes in that way. Keep it up! 🍀🍀