A DEFINITION AND SOME EXAMPLES
Functional fitness is a training approach that focuses on improving our ability to perform everyday activities and tasks by incorporating exercises that are more like real-life movements.
This is not bodybuilding for symmetry and only showy muscular development.
Functional training aims to enhance strength, flexibility, balance and overall physical function.
Functional fitness routines include the following as examples:
- Bodyweight exercises – such as squats, lunges, push-ups, pull-ups and planks.
- Kettlebell training – since kettlebells are versatile tools and allow us to work several muscle groups simultaneously.
- Medicine ball workouts – this would include wall throws, slams and rotational movements to improve strength, power and coordination.
- Suspension training – suspension straps allow us to perform bodyweight exercises with increased stability challenges. This engages our core and stabilizer muscles.
- Agility and balance training – this would include ladder drills, cone drills and even standing on one foot for improved balance
- Plyometrics – these are explosive movements, such as box jumps and burpees, for power and coordination
FUNCTIONAL FITNESS EQUIPMENT
Amazon is a good source for functional equipment, as well as for about anything else we might need for fitness training. As an Amazon associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases from my links. This has no effect on the pricing. The links fit well within my articles, since they provide relevance.
The links will show prices, reviews, detailed descriptions and access to similar links.
TRX home suspension training set
Foam roller – for self-myofascial release, to release muscle tension and improve flexibility
FINAL THOUGHTS
It’s important to concentrate on correct form and technique when we begin a functional training routine – to prevent injuries.
Simpler functional training (especially for seniors) includes:
- Stepping up and down
- Balancing
- Walking
- Reaching above our heads
- Twisting
- Squatting
- Pushing, pulling and lifting in all forms
A very simple weighted jump rope is certainly an asset (again through Amazon).
Training for strength and training for function can be very much the same in many instances. The difference is in working for specific muscle development vs. working to improve routine activity in our daily lives.
This video will also explain that difference.
Please leave me any comments or questions in the “Comments” section below. Or email me, richard@myworkoutathome.com.
Let’s stay in motion!
