About

Why The Movement Lab?

Clients come to The Movement Lab for many reasons.  Some are looking for relief from pain or injury, some are looking to improve their mobility and balance, and many just enjoy the work and how they feel afterwards!  These are all great reasons to join our classes or take private sessions and we look forward to helping you find what works for you.

Our Philosophy

“I focus on sustainable and natural movement/exercises. I believe that increasing the functionality of the body through movement should be the overarching goal of exercise and that movement should be prioritized over the conventional exercise model (stationary bike, recumbent, cardio and strength exercise only)”

Rich O'ConnorOwner

Meet Our Team

Rich O'Connor, Gyrotonic and Gyrokineses instructor

Rich O'Connor: Studio Owner, GYROTONIC® & GYROKINESIS® Specialized Master Trainer

I have been teaching movement for over 25 years and continue to grow more passionate about my profession every day! I have taught many exercise systems and martial arts over the years to continue to explore and refine my personal practice.  My focus over the last few years has been based around the concepts of natural movement and sustainability. I have been practicing the GYROTONIC® since 2002, and teaching since 2003– originally, in Boston and Manhattan – prior to relocating to Albuquerque in 2006. I opened GYROTONIC® Albuquerque in 2014 and expanded into The Movement Lab in 2019 to continue my exploration into natural movement methods and share the experience with my clients.

Adrian Montgomery: GYROTONIC® & GYROKINESIS® Trainer

I have tried all types of exercise methods: pilates, dance, yoga, weightlifting, running, aerobic classes, cardio equipment, but I never stuck with any of them due to lack of results, increased soreness, or just plain boredom. Luckily, I stumbled onto the GYROTONIC® method over 10 years ago. I stumble no more! The process of becoming a GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® instructor has not only made my body feel stronger and more flexible, but I am now “connected” to my body and it’s under my control! I love being able to make a difference in the lives of others by sharing this method.

Jes Nida: GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Trainer

I found the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® after a rollerblading injury in 2002. Out of all the therapies I tried, it was the only one that provided pain relief, while also realigning my body and increasing my strength. My background in early childhood education and therapy came to the forefront as I further delved into the GYROTONIC® method to become a certified instructor. I believe we don’t have to stop growing and moving as babies and children do! We can maintain and expand a lifetime of growth and bodily connection!

Movement Lab Instructor Leslie Plummer

Leslie Plummer: GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Trainer

Leslie Plummer, a native New Mexican, learned classical ballet from Patricia Dickinson-Wells and performed with New Mexico Ballet Company. She furthered her education at summer intensives with ABT and the Ailey School and went on to receive her B.A. in Dance from the University of New Mexico. Leslie later performed with Oui Danse under Artistic Director Brice Mousset. Currently, Leslie is a freelance dancer working in film and live performance. She also assists Jon Ole Olstad with various creative projects.

Leslie trained with Caroline Brethenoux and Sebastian Plettenberg to receive her education in the GYROKINESIS® method, and with Paula Ann Rivera and Chantal Deeble for the GYROTONIC®️ method. Leslie is a certified GYROKINESIS® and GYROTONIC® trainer, who has taught in New York City at Kinespirit Riverside, Steps on Broadway, Chelsea Movements, and Union Square GYROTONIC®. Leslie has been teaching at The Movement Lab in Albuquerque, NM since September of 2020. With the guidance of Rich O’Connor, she became a certified GYROTONIC® level 1 pre-trainer in September 2021. She is passionate about working with people of all ages and levels to find the freedom and joy of moving their body, mind, and spirit.