Why Functional?

What is functional training? Functional training is a specific system of programs and exercises designed to develop a higher level of athletic preparation. Functional training is not just about getting stronger or bigger; it is about reducing injuries and improving performance. In functional training, strength is developed with the intent of improving sport skills, not for the sake of more strength. Although many people train for appearance, functional training views improved appearance as a by-product of performance enhancement training.

Function can basically be defined as purpose. Therefore, functional training is essentially training with a purpose. Functional training is not really sport specific training but rather a general approach to developing skills that are useful in most sports. Functional training looks at the commonalities of sport and seeks to reinforces them. Functional training seeks to mimic the actual activity and environment that a sport is performed on and tailor the training to fit that action. This type of training is best characterized by exercises done with the feet in contact with the ground without the help of machines. Reason tells us that most machine-based training systems are not by definition functional because the load is stabilized for the lifter by the machine. While machine-based training may seem safer, the lack of stabilization strength could lead to more injuries during competitive activities when it counts. Basically, functional training teaches athletes how to handle weighted loads plus their own body weight.

Before you can design an effective functional training program, you must first analyze and understand the demands of your sport or activity. Review your sport in your mind. Determine what type of sport it is and what type of skills you need to be successful in it, then tailor your training to address those needs. The key to developing a truly functional training program is not to go too far in any particular direction. The majority of exercises should be done standing and should be multi jointed, but don't neglect tried and true methods for strength training. A good functional strength-training is one that uses exercises such as the bench press and squats and then transform the strength developed into functional strength through movements such as plyometric pushups and single leg squats.

As you begin to explore the concept of functional training, keep an open mind about how and why athletes move in your sport. A training program built around actions that don't occur in sport simply does not make sense. The key is to design a training program that exercises the muscles in the same they are used in sports. Basically, functional training. Thank for your ear and keep reading!