We often hear about “correct” posture, ideal movement patterns and the importance of performing exercises with perfect technique. But is there really one right way to move?
The reality is that human movement is much more individual than we might think. Our bodies differ in their structure, strength, mobility, previous experiences and physical demands. As a result, the way one person moves may look very different from another, even when both are performing the same task effectively.
Understanding this can help us take a more practical and individualised approach to rehabilitation, exercise and everyday movement.
Movement Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
There is often an assumption that every movement should look a certain way. While technique can be important, particularly when learning a new skill or managing specific physical demands, there is rarely just one movement pattern that works for everyone.
For example, two people performing a squat may position their feet differently, lean their bodies at different angles or move through slightly different ranges of motion. These differences can be influenced by factors such as hip structure, ankle mobility, limb proportions and training experience.
Neither person is necessarily moving incorrectly. What matters is whether the movement is appropriate for the individual, the task they are performing and the outcome they want to achieve.
Rather than focusing solely on how a movement looks, it is often more useful to consider how well it meets the demands being placed on the body.
Why Movement Variability Can Be a Good Thing
Movement variability refers to the natural differences in how we perform the same movement from one repetition to the next, or how we adapt our movements to different situations.
This variability is normal. Our bodies constantly make small adjustments in response to changes in balance, fatigue, the environment and the task at hand.
Being able to adapt movement can be useful because everyday life rarely requires us to move in exactly the same way every time. Walking on uneven ground, lifting an object from an awkward position or changing direction during sport all require our bodies to adjust.
In rehabilitation and exercise, developing the ability to adapt to different demands can be just as important as practising a specific movement pattern.
The aim is not necessarily to eliminate variation, but to develop the capacity to move confidently and effectively in different situations.
Does Technique Still Matter?
Absolutely. Technique can play an important role in helping us learn new skills, improve performance and manage the demands placed on our bodies.
However, technique should be considered in context rather than treated as a universal set of rules.
A movement that is appropriate for one person may not be the most suitable option for another. Similarly, the technique someone uses when lifting a light object may differ from how they move when lifting something heavier or performing a task under fatigue.
The key is understanding what the individual needs to achieve and whether their current movement strategy allows them to do so effectively.
Rather than chasing a single ideal, the focus should be on developing the skills, strength and capacity needed for the task.
Strength, Mobility and Confidence Matter
When it comes to improving movement, there are several factors that can be more useful to focus on than achieving perfect technique.
Strength and capacity
Building strength helps the body manage physical demands more effectively. Whether the goal is returning to the gym, playing sport or completing everyday activities, developing the capacity to tolerate the required workload is an important part of the process.
Mobility
Having sufficient mobility for the activities you want to perform can help you move comfortably and efficiently. The amount of mobility needed will vary depending on the individual and the task.
Confidence
Confidence in movement is also important, particularly following an injury or a period of pain. People may become cautious about certain movements if they believe they are doing something incorrectly or risking further injury.
Gradually rebuilding confidence through appropriate, progressive activity can help people return to the things they enjoy.
Gradual progression
The body adapts to the demands placed upon it. Increasing activity, resistance or complexity gradually allows you to develop your physical capacity over time. Progress should be guided by your goals, symptoms and how you respond to the demands of exercise.
Together, these factors can help build more resilient, adaptable movement.
What Does This Mean for Rehabilitation?
Following an injury, it is common to focus on correcting movement patterns or returning to the way you moved before. However, rehabilitation does not always mean restoring an exact previous movement pattern.
Instead, the focus should be on understanding what is limiting you and identifying the most appropriate way to improve it.
For one person, this might involve rebuilding strength after a period of reduced activity. For another, it may mean improving mobility, gradually increasing exercise tolerance or developing confidence in a movement they have been avoiding.
There may be several ways to achieve the same functional goal. A good rehabilitation programme considers the individual’s circumstances, symptoms, physical capacity and priorities rather than applying the same solution to everyone.
Movement that looks different is not automatically movement that needs correcting.
Of course, some movement changes may be worth assessing, particularly when they are associated with pain, reduced function, instability or difficulty completing everyday activities. An individual assessment can help determine what is relevant and whether any changes would be beneficial.
Stop Chasing Perfect Movement
There is no single movement pattern that is perfect for every person or every situation.
While technique has its place, focusing too heavily on achieving an ideal way of moving can sometimes distract from the things that matter most: building strength, developing physical capacity, improving mobility and feeling confident in your body.
Effective movement is about more than appearance. It is about having the ability to meet the demands of your daily life, exercise and sport in a way that works for you.
If pain, injury or reduced movement is affecting your ability to do the things you enjoy, a physiotherapy assessment can help identify what may be contributing to the problem and establish an appropriate plan to move forwards.
At Neil Minter & Associates, the focus is on understanding the individual, identifying their goals and helping them build the strength and capacity to return to the activities that matter to them.
Because the goal isn’t perfect movement. It’s effective, confident movement that works for you.
