Functional Training
Functional training is training with a purpose or target activity in mind. Unlike traditional forms of strength or power training which focuses on isolation of specific muscles, functional training in simplest terms is integrated, proprioceptively enriched multi-directional movement. It is based on training in all three planes of movement at varying levels, speeds and rhythms.
The key elements of functional training incorporates many core movements. "Core" training targets the muscles controlled by the central nervous system, the command station that controls and directs all movement. These include muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and hips. Increasing strength of the muscles and improving their function will lead to better balance, body control, strength in the extremities and lower rates of injury.
Functional training can be designed to be sport specific or job specific. Each sport or job is different, and so is each individual athlete or individual worker. The program is tailored based on the athlete's or worker's age, developmental level, athletic ability, sport or job, and goals. Therefore, each program is different. Understanding the demands of your sport or job is essential in designing the proper program . For example, a sport that requires much jumping and cutting, such as basketball, will have a program designed to increase vertical leap, agility, acceleration speed, and core strength. In another example, a job that requires lifting, carrying, and pulling heavy objects, such as a firefighter, will have a program designed to increase cardiovascular endurance, agility and speed under heavier loads, quick reflexes, and dynamic strength.
The key elements of functional training incorporates many core movements. "Core" training targets the muscles controlled by the central nervous system, the command station that controls and directs all movement. These include muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and hips. Increasing strength of the muscles and improving their function will lead to better balance, body control, strength in the extremities and lower rates of injury.
Functional training can be designed to be sport specific or job specific. Each sport or job is different, and so is each individual athlete or individual worker. The program is tailored based on the athlete's or worker's age, developmental level, athletic ability, sport or job, and goals. Therefore, each program is different. Understanding the demands of your sport or job is essential in designing the proper program . For example, a sport that requires much jumping and cutting, such as basketball, will have a program designed to increase vertical leap, agility, acceleration speed, and core strength. In another example, a job that requires lifting, carrying, and pulling heavy objects, such as a firefighter, will have a program designed to increase cardiovascular endurance, agility and speed under heavier loads, quick reflexes, and dynamic strength.
