What exactly is “functional fitness training” in the world of fitness and why does it matter?
Let’s demystify it:
Functional fitness training is a methodology aimed at enhancing people’s abilities to perform everyday tasks. This form of training often incorporates movements that closely emulate our daily physical actions.
Take squats, for instance. They are a crucial functional movement because they assist in transitioning from a sitting to standing position. Deadlifts, on the other hand, aid in lifting items from the ground—be it groceries, a child, a pet, or a box. Shoulder presses come in handy when you need to place a bag of dog food on a shelf, while farmer carries are useful for hauling trash to the curb.
Other exercises, such as kettlebell swings, also have a significant impact on our daily life: Mastering the art of rapidly opening your hips can help you easily jump over a puddle or sprint to catch a bus.
The distinction between functional training and bodybuilding becomes more evident when you compare the two.
Bodybuilding aims to amplify muscle size, engaging a variety of machines, devices, and exercises to target specific muscles during workouts. The utilization of distinct sets, reps, and rest periods is aimed at promoting muscle development. The primary focus of bodybuilders is on muscle size, tone, and balance rather than aspects like cardiovascular endurance, stamina, or flexibility.
Drawing another parallel with powerlifting: the objective here is to maximize strength in merely three movements. All their efforts are directed towards increasing their capacity in the squat, bench press, and deadlift. They employ particular equipment and workout regimens to meet these objectives.
In contrast, functional fitness training pursues a broader aim: enhancing overall fitness.
The 10 Elements of Functional Fitness Training
Functional fitness training aims to enhance overall fitness by focusing on whole-body movements, using free weights rather than equipment, incorporating a variety of exercises, and alternating workout duration and intensity.
These regimens are not arbitrarily designed; they differ from conventional routines that typically consist of 3 sets with 8-10 repetitions in each session.
Here are four diverse workouts that exemplify functional fitness training and will contribute to your overall fitness:
- Complete a 5-kilometer run.
- Within a 20-minute timeframe, complete as many cycles as you can of 5 pull-ups, 10 push-ups, and 15 squats.
- Execute 5 rounds of 5 substantial barbell back squats.
- Carry out rounds of dumbbell push presses and box jumps in 21-, 15-, and 9-rep sequences.
A regimen of exercises such as this, when compiled into a workout plan, is intended to enhance the following aspects:
- Endurance in terms of cardiovascular and respiratory health.
- Energy and stamina.
- Muscular strength.
- Flexibility.
- Power.
- Rapidness.
- Synchronization skills.
- Agility.
- Equilibrium.
- Precision.
Reviewing this compilation, it becomes evident why individuals who engage in functional training often have the capability to excel in any physical undertaking, be it within or beyond the fitness centre.
Moreover, such a program can assist a person in shedding weight or body fat, augmenting muscle mass and strength, or boosting physical conditioning. There are even those who employ this form of training to enhance their sports performance. It’s incredibly effective and thoroughly enjoyable.
Is Functional Training the Right Choice for You?
Does functional training hold an edge over other training styles?
This largely rests on your individual objective. It could be highly effective and immensely enjoyable whether you’re training alone or in a group! However, if you have a liking for other approaches or if your aspirations extend beyond basic fitness, a different training style might serve you better.
Some uplifting news: We are capable of guiding you on how to train to achieve your targets—no matter what they may be. We are well-versed with all the diverse styles of training and can furnish a precise plan that guarantees success.
Should you wish to discuss functional training or inquire about how to reach your objectives, feel free to book a complimentary consultation in our gym located in Bedford or Concord, New Hampshire.