What is Functional Training?

When it comes to physical fitness, there are so many programs and plans available. There is cardiovascular training, which is primarily aerobic exercises that stimulate blood flow and oxygen intake in the body. Many gyms offer a variety of cardio machines like treadmills or ellipticals or offer "Spin" classes with an instructor who takes you through a program on a stationary bicycle. There is also strength training, which can be performed using any number of different equipment options or body weight exercises. Experts agree that the best results are achieved through a combination of cardio and strength training. So what is Functional Training and where does it fall in line?

Functional Training serves a purpose: to improve performance of everyday activities.

A functional workout is simply one that strengthens you in a particular way that directly translates to an activity outside the weight room. Functional training exercised improve performance of everyday activities- like walking, squatting to pick up something heavy, pushing a revolving door, or getting in and out of a chair- or can prepare to compete in a sport like soccer, football, or tennis. Our bodies are incredible instruments of mobility but it is important to incorporate movement patterns and compound exercises that help build strength and flexibility of multiple muscle groups. Functional Training can combine both cardio and strength training in a format that increases dexterity, flexibility and stability in a way that improves the quality of life, everyday.

What makes a Functional Workout?

Functional Workouts include a variety of cardio and strength training exercises:

• Cross Lateral Movement Exercises

• Compound Exercises with equipment

• Body Weight Exercises

• Core & Abdominal Exercises

Stay tuned for our weekly WHITEBOARD WORKOUTS for simple to follow functional workouts. Interested in learning more? Read Self Magazine's article entitled, "What Functional Training Is and Why Its Important" for some great examples of Functional Training exercises.