As development progresses, our lives are becoming more and more simplified. We no longer have to go hunting - we go to the supermarket, we no longer have to walk long distances - we drive a car, and even working in the office is less physically demanding than tilling the fields. But these simplifications do not only have advantages, on the contrary. For many people, lifting two cases of water into the car after shopping is a challenge in itself. Most complain of back pain in the process; lack of movement and the wrong technique are often the causes. Not for nothing is back pain referred to as a "widespread disease". But there is a way to combat it: Functional Training.
What is Functional Training?
Functional training is a form of training without the classic strength equipment. Here muscles are not trained in isolation, but entire movement sequences. These are usually derived from everyday life. So situations from our everyday life are imitated and specifically promoted. This has the effect that the body as a whole unit and many muscles are trained simultaneously. Functional Training offers a variety of ways to complete the workout. Whether alone, in pairs or as a group, whether with a trainer or without, depending on your own wishes, the training can be adapted. This results in an individually tailored workout. Health problems can be tackled and combated in a targeted manner. Training in a group or with a trainer also increases motivation and enjoyment of the workout.
Where does Functional Training come from?
In the meantime, Functional Training can no longer be described as a trend, it is rather a permanent fixture in the sports industry. The first applications originate from rehabilitation sports and found their way into the fitness studio. But the origin goes back even further. To be exact, to the birth of every human being. Since this form of training specifically trains movements from everyday life and these are innate, Functional Training is something we do from birth. Humans have always had to adapt in order to overcome various challenges. To do this, the body often has to push itself to its performance limits as well. In today's world, these challenges are increasingly diminishing, but our bodies are still genetically designed to do so. With Functional Training, you can not only push your body to its performance limits and at the same time prepare it for certain situations, but also train specific problem areas.
How is it trained?
Functional training can be completed with a wide variety of equipment. The most typical equipment includes Kettlebells, power bags, Dumbbells or Slings. Basically, it can be said that any training accessory in which the movement is not guided and thus the stabilization is taken from you, belongs to functional training. Since here often also only with the own body weight equipment is not always necessary.
What are the current trends?
Many gyms are already equipped with their own "functional training area. Among other things, they use multifunctional walls from Cube Sports, freestyle towers from DHZ Fitness or with TRX bands are used. Each of these functional elements offers different training possibilities and brings a lot of variety in the daily training routine.
What possibilities are there to offer Functional Training?
Functional training is a very flexible sport thanks to the fact that it is not necessarily linked to equipment. It can be practiced almost anywhere and at any time. Because it is so popular, it is mandatory for personal trainers and gym owners to offer Functional Training as well. For personal trainers who make house calls, this is relatively easy to implement. Kettlebells and the like don't take up much space and are sufficient to provide an intense workout. For fitness facilities, the challenge is a bit more difficult. Not everyone has enough space to convert an entire area into an area for functional training. If this is the case, classes can be used to provide this type of training in a group setting.
Sometimes this type of training is viewed rather negatively. The reason for this is the often inaccurate instruction or supervision by qualified trainers. In contrast to equipment, the exercises are usually performed freely, which increases the risk of incorrect or faulty execution. Therefore, it is important for all, whether fitness studio or independent personal trainer, to train the staff or themselves properly and regularly to be a perfect support for the members.
For more information about Functional Training and how to expand your gym with PROWAVE Functional Training Equipment, click here:
Functional Fitness: A trend for everyone?
PROWAVE: Individual Functional Training Solutions for your Studio
Editorial fitnessmarkt.de (NJ)
Image Source: © oneinchpunch / Adobe Stock
Published on: 16 October 2018