For those who want to have a healthier, more active and dynamic life, one of the physical activities to invest in is lfunctional training, also known as functional training.
This type of training is gaining more and more popularity thanks to its ability to improve the physical condition as a whole.
In this article, we'll clarify everything you need to know about functional training: what it is, what its benefits are, what are the best exercises and, as a bonus, some tips for newbies.
Index
Functional training: what is it?
First of all, it is important to understand and clarify the most common doubt about functional training: what is it?
It is a type of physical activity that aims to improve physical condition by imitating normal daily movements such as getting up from the sofa or carrying groceries.
And it must be said that it is quite different than CrossFit… don't you know the differences? Then read them here.
What is the goal of functional training?
The goal of functional training is to orprovide better physical conditioning, using exercises that stimulate different parts of the body.
Functional exercises refer to associated (usually multi-joint) movements that include reduction of fat mass, stabilization and increase of force.
As previously mentioned, this type of activity can be performed on several levels and involves several muscle groups; which is why muscle strength, flexibility, cardiorespiratory system, motor coordination and balance work.
Who is functional training suitable for?
Functional training may be suitable for different types of people, but it is extremely interesting for:
- Sedentary people who wish to resume physical activities
- People who wish to supplement strength training
- People who want to lose weight.
What are the benefits?
Functional training can offer a number of benefits. We understand that the main ones are the improvement of the physical conditioning, the cardiorespiratory capacity and the increase of the muscular strength.
Beyond that, functional training can help improve motor coordination, postural balance and flexibility, as well as reduce the risk of injuries.
Weight loss
Functional training exercises are a great option also for those who want to lose weight, as the exercises increase the metabolism, promoting fat burning even after training.
At the same time, along with weight loss, functional training also helps for greater definition and toning of the body.
Exercises that are part of functional training
In theoretical terms, functional training it is based on free body exercises, on a practical level the exercises to be performed are tractions, bends, pushes and twists.
Various joints are thus involved and, consequently, the muscle groups involved are many.
The main movements are:
EXTRA: tips for newbies
Now that you know what functional training is, what the benefits are and what the main exercises are, it's time to start exercising, right? But first we'll give you some tips to get you started.
Having a frequency
It is the practice that creates the skill. Therefore, the more you train, the easier the exercises become and, therefore, can be intensified.
Therefore, it is very important to prioritize frequency and consistency when you want to achieve long-term results.
Align exercises with a good diet
Physical exercises alone are not enough for those seeking a higher quality of life. A balanced and healthy diet is essential for those seeking, for example, to lose weight through functional training.
Know your limit
Finally, always respect your limits, especially to avoid injuries. When you understand how far you can go, you can make the most of the exercise.