About Mitch

Mitchell Barrow – Coach

Formal Qualifications
Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement), Deakin University
Diploma in Recreation – Sport Coaching, Victoria University
Level 2, Strength and Conditioning Coach
Breathing Integration Teacher

Summary
For the past 18 years I have worked as a Performance Coach and Movement Specialist, working with athletes (national and international) and the general public to enhance movement ability, self awareness and total function of the body. Experience has taught me that the body and mind are not separate, and that quite often overcoming physical barriers can help to understand ourselves and the blockages we have.

Influences
My search to enhance total performance (for self and other) has lead me to investigate and immerse in many different disciplines, from Traditional Physical Conditioning to Yoga Practice, Chinese Philosophy, Developmental Movement and Western Psychology as well as contemplative practices such as Meditation/Relaxation and Breathing Dynamics.

Learning
Initially this search was to improve sporting performance, i.e. move better, reduce injuries, overcome psychological barriers, but as time has passed I have learnt that all these different experiences contribute to developing the whole person. I believe strongly that to improve sporting performance and performance in life we need to understand ourselves and commit to an integrated approach.

Surfing
Surfing has been a constant in my life for the past 25 years and it is what I would do all day if I could. Surfing and the ocean has taken me all over the world and has given me some incredible peak experiences. I currently work with surfers, helping them prolong their surfing life through my business Surf Better Longer. I’ve consulted to the Quicksilver International surf team, and worked with elite Victorian Junior surfers, as well as local guns WCT surfer Nick Mushcroft and WQS surfers Adam Robinson and Jack Perry.

Other Experience
I have also spent time in other elite sport both as an athlete and coach, consulting to a range of sporting organisations including ; Melbourne Kestrels Netball, Surfing Victoria Elite Junior Program, Victorian Institute of Sport, Geelong and Bellarine Football Leagues. I have also spent the last 10 years working as a Mentor Coach for the Bluearth Foundation  which focuses on training coaches and school teachers in using movement education to develop self worth, self awareness and self esteem.

Currently, I am enjoying living and feeling well, with a healthy appetite for challenging myself physically and deepening my understanding of movement, breathing and stabilisation as well as sharing it with others.