There are multiple types of fitness routines with different goals and approaches, and if you’re a beginner or are looking for a new routine, you may not know what to choose. Functional training is one approach that offers well-rounded benefits you can use in your day-to-day life, making it a solid choice. Here is a brief overview of what it is and what to expect.

What Is It?

Functional training focuses on movement patterns to deliver tangible results. Whereas most routines have singular goals—like strength training to build muscle or cardio to build stamina—the purpose of a functional routine is to enhance your performance and function across all levels using a multi-planar approach. You have three primary planes of movement: side to side, rotation, and forward and backward. Functional workouts target these planes of motion to work your body out as a whole, instead of targeting or isolating individual muscles or areas. It works with the way your body normally functions to make it better. 

What Benefits Does It Offer?

Functional training provides numerous benefits. It boosts your overall strength evenly, so your body stays in proportion, and strength is built where your body needs it, like your core. You’ll have increased ease of mobility and stability, with healthier joints and a fuller range of motion. Since the workouts are based on the natural movement patterns used in everyday tasks, your ability to accomplish daily chores will become easier, like moving boxes, playing with your kids, and bending or lifting while cleaning. Your sports and recreational performance will be enhanced, too, whether you play softball or like to hike.

What Exercises Can I Expect From a Functional Training Routine?

Functional workouts target movements like extending, pushing, pulling, and rotating. Exercises recommended by your personal training coach or fitness center may vary, as there are numerous ways to adapt natural motions to fitness purposes. Common functional exercises include horizontal and side planks to work your core, squats with dumbbells to work your lower body, and pushups and pullups for your upper body. A more complicated move would be the rotation exercise known as cable chops, where you stand with a resistance weight to one side of your body and pull it out in front of you and to the other side.

 

If you’re ready to feel, look, and do better through functional training, Xthetic Fizique in Scottsdale, AZ, will help you reach your goals. For over six years, Jo Ambeau and his team have provided engaging personal training services that will challenge and encourage you. Affiliated with several fitness centers in the area, they offer multiple workout approaches, including functional, cardio, and strength training routines in groups or for individuals. Learn more about their programs online, and call (480) 382-1744 for a free consultation.