Functional fitness training prepares your body for everyday movements and activities that you do all day long. Here are ten facts about functional fitness training to help you get to know more this style of training.
1. Functional fitness training is not a fad.
Functional fitness training isn’t a fad or a buzzword. It is a training method that’s here to stay.
2. The purpose of functional fitness training is to mimic the movements found in everyday life.
With functional fitness, the movements are like what you do in sports and everyday life — things like pulling, pushing, reaching, squatting, and rotating.
3. Functional fitness training is for all ages.
Almost all functional movements can be modified to fit your level of fitness. Functional fitness modifications take your current strength, mobility, and coordination into consideration.
4. Functional fitness movements can improve your flexibility and coordination.
Functional movements are done through a full range of motion. Over time, this can improve your overall mobility and help you move better while working out and in your daily life.
5. Functional fitness training decreases your risk of injury.
Because you’re training in movements that mimic everyday life, you will reduce your chance of getting injured doing those same movements. So, when you pick up a 60-pound bag of dog food, you’ll be less likely to tweak your back because your body knows how to move correctly.
6. Functional movements include multiple muscle groups.
Unlike the biceps in a dumbbell curl, functional movements recruit multiple muscle groups together rather than isolating a single muscle group. Examples of functional movements are the squat, deadlift, and push press.
7. Many functional fitness exercises can be done anywhere.
Rather than needing specific equipment that takes up a lot of space, many functional fitness exercises can be done anywhere, including outside and at home.
8. Most bodyweight movements are functional fitness movements.
Pushups, pull-ups, squats, jumping, lunging, and situps are all functional movements. And all you need to do them is your bodyweight.
9. Functional fitness training can add variety to your workout routine.
Are you someone who goes to the gym for several months and does through the same routine each time? Functional fitness training could be just what you need to mix up your workouts.
10. The best way to add functional fitness workouts to your routine is to start slowly.
If you’re new to functional fitness training, it’s better to start and ramp up slowly. A fitness instructor or personal trainer can help guide you through getting started.
To learn more about the programs and classes we’re currently offering at Pinnacle Performance and Fitness, contact us today.