Functional Training
Looks Good, But Does It Work...
Function is, essentially, purpose. Functional training can therefore be described as purposeful training. Functional training is a continuum of exercises that teach us to handle our own body weight in all planes of movement. Experts emphasize that functional training trains movements, not muscles. There is no emphasis on overdeveloping strength in a particular movement.
To refine the definition, ask yourself how many skills are performed by one joint acting in isolation? The answer is none. Functional training attempts to focus on multi-joint movement as much as possible. Single joint movements that isolate a specific muscle are very non functional. Multi-joint movements are considered very functional; they integrate muscle groups into movement patterns.
In functional training, strength is developed with the intent of improving skills, not for the sake of more strength. Size is developed in areas that will benefit from greater size, not for aesthetics. Although many people train for appearance, functional training views appearance as a by-product of increased health and overall function.
Whether you are recovering from an injury, training for sport, or just wanting to be in the best condition of your life, functional training should be an important component in your health and fitness program.