ISSUE 04

Thea Hughes x RZ

Movement is more than motion—it’s communication, confidence, and connection. Few understand this better than Thea Hughes, a movement director and wellness coach whose work bridges sport, fashion, and creative production. With a background in creative marketing, coaching, and dance instruction, she helps talent move with authenticity while aligning with a brand’s vision.

In this conversation, Thea shares her insights on movement direction, wellness, and how spaces like Rhythm Zero foster long-term connection. From coaching elite athletes on set to refining a model’s technical precision, her work balances artistry with natural expression—all while empowering people to outgrow her guidance and trust in their own movement.

How do you define movement direction, and what role does it play in photoshoots, castings, and video projects?

“Movement direction is like being a mirror for talent on set—reflecting movement that aligns with the creative vision, the specific sport or modality, the space, and even key product details. It’s about bridging the gap between technical accuracy and artistic expression.

For example, when I’m working with Nike, an elite athlete might be incredible in their sport but less comfortable in front of a camera. On the other hand, a model might move effortlessly on set but lack the technical precision of an athlete. My job, and what I love to do, is to connect both worlds—coaching talent in a way that feels authentic while ensuring we capture the right lines, shapes, energy, etc.

Movement direction helps balance brand/creative objectives and individual expression, ensuring that the movement tells a compelling, authentic story.”

What’s your approach when working with photographers, directors, and brands to bring their vision to life through movement?

“Observation is key. Understanding the creative team —how a DP moves, what they’re drawn to, and how they communicate their ideas. Then, the talent’s natural strengths—their angles, energy, and movement tendencies. And finally the mood board; which is more than just references images – it’s a collection of emotions. I aim to translate that feeling into physical expression, guiding the talent through movement that aligns with the desired look and energy. Sometimes that means coaching subtle adjustments, and other times it involves choreographing sequences to achieve a more structured aesthetic.

My background is in creative marketing, advertising, and campaign development though so I think the ‘language of production’ is more engrained. Paired with being a coach and former dance teacher which comes with an intimate, intuitive awareness for how someone moves and what they need.”

What principles guide your approach to holistic wellness?

“Stay just outside the edge of your comfort zone – I think we can be too timid to push into this grit-your-teeth zone when exercising. But while you’re out there, be kind to yourself. Push yourself, sure, but also recognize that bodies (and lives) change, shift, and evolve. Adapt accordingly.

And then there’s the 70/30 ‘rule’—make good choices most of the time, but don’t forget to have fun. You don’t always live for future you. Sometimes today you deserves to win.”

What do you hope people take away from working with you beyond physical benefits?

"Honestly? That they don’t need me anymore. I want people to walk away feeling confident in their bodies—not just in how they move, but in how they make decisions about movement, wellness, and life in general.

I guess that’s why I’m shifting more into Movement Direction and Creative Consulting—my 1:1 clients will more or less outgrow me. And that’s exactly how it should be.”

How does the concept of wellness tie into a space like Rhythm Zero, which blends community with coffee culture?

“Longevity. The people who pull up to Rhythm Zero aren’t just thinking about today—they’re designing a life that feels good long-term. You see it in the run clubs, book clubs, coworking regulars, and the beautiful families and friends who are always linking. It’s about connection, movement, and quality of life—not just in the short term, but for years to come.

Also, coffee is a wellness ritual in its own right, no?"

How long have you been a regular at Rhythm Zero?

“Day one. Well… at least opening week. I’m an ‘environment’ person (say you’re a Libra without saying you’re a Libra), so the way I feel in a space matters. When I came into R0, it just felt like an extension of home. Or at least a place where I felt equally comfortable, energized, and happy — that’s also because I met Ivana and Aleks. I started chatting with Ivana (throwback to her behind-the-counter days!) and I knew I found a long-lost friend. So cheesy. So true."