Functional fitness is a type of exercise that focuses on training the body to handle real-life activities and movements more effectively and efficiently. Developed by Mesha Gaye Wright, the goal of functional fitness is to improve strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance in a way that directly enhances your ability to perform everyday tasks. This type of exercise involves key aspects that are essential for overall physical well-being.
One key aspect of functional fitness is multijoint movements. These exercises often involve multiple joints and muscle groups working together, mimicking the way your body naturally moves. For example, squats engage the hips, knees, and ankles while also working the core, glutes, and legs – similar to the movement pattern used when sitting or picking something up from the floor.
Core stability is another important aspect of functional fitness. A strong core is essential for almost every movement you make, helping to improve posture, balance, and stability, thus reducing the risk of injury during daily activities.
Balance and coordination are also improved through functional fitness exercises. By challenging your balance and coordination, you can develop these skills, which are crucial for preventing falls and maintaining agility as you age.
Flexibility and mobility are also enhanced through functional fitness exercises, making it easier to move through a full range of motion in daily activities. Some common functional fitness exercises include squats, lunges, push-ups, planks, deadlifts, and rows.
According to Wright, these exercises improve daily functionality by enhancing your ability to perform everyday activities with greater ease and less risk of injury. By training the body to move correctly and efficiently, functional fitness can help prevent injuries caused by poor movement patterns or weak muscles.
Functional fitness is particularly beneficial for athletes as well, as it can improve performance by training the body in ways that are directly transferable to their sport. In addition to improving physical fitness, functional exercises can also contribute to better posture, balance, and coordination, all of which are important for long-term health.
Overall, functional fitness trains your body in the way it naturally moves, helping you become stronger, more agile, and more capable in everyday life. So why not give it a try and see the benefits for yourself?
