This type of training still helps in weight loss and ensures a contoured and firm body. The result is guaranteed through the exercises practiced, which, when performed correctly, move different muscle groups at the same time, facilitating caloric expenditure in high demand.
However, it is recommended to practice at least three times a week to ensure good results, as this training model can increase the athlete’s muscular resistance and guarantee a defined biotype.
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What is functional training?
This type of training can be defined as a group of more dynamic exercises that work different muscles at the same time, without the need for weight machines or high-impact activities, such as crossfit.
This training model uses your own body weight to perform the exercises and, in addition to the physical body, functional exercises also work the mind and concentration.
This is because the complexity of the activities is greater since they work on several integrated physical capacities, such as:
- force;
- potency;
- cardiorespiratory endurance;
- stability; and
- balance and stretching .
That said, now see what this training model is for.
What is functional training for?
It serves to strengthen the abdomen , the lumbar region and to facilitate the performance of daily tasks, such as:
- to sit;
- rise;
- run; and
- up and down stairs.
In addition, it also prevents injuries, reduces fatigue and strengthens the muscles of the lower and upper limbs.
In this type of physical activity, flexibility, the cardiorespiratory system, balance and motor coordination are worked on, all through sequences that include slow exercises interspersed with faster and more abrupt activities.
The aim of this mixture of activities and exercises is to improve reflexes as well as stimulate rapid responses in the body.
Functional training benefits
The purpose of functional training is to provide well-being, reducing sedentary lifestyle and ensuring other health benefits, such as:
- improved posture;
- increased muscle strength;
- improvement in motor coordination;
- increased body balance;
- greater flexibility;
- reduction in depression;
- decreased levels of anxiety and stress;
- increased cardiorespiratory capacity;
- slimming;
- reduction of lumbar pain ; and
- muscle toning guarantee.
The good news is that the exercises can be performed by people of any age group and physical condition, including postpartum, post-surgery, sedentary or elderly people.
The workouts can also be carried out in any space and in a short time, and can vary from 20 to 40 minutes according to the number of series and exercises stipulated by the professional responsible for the session.
Remember that, like any other activity, it is important to follow up with a physiotherapist or a physical education professional.
In addition, the benefits are greater when associated with good pre- and post-workout nutrition , followed by quality hydration.
Functional training equipment
As mentioned throughout the text, functional training does not require any bodybuilding equipment, as it is performed only with the athlete’s body strength, added to his balance capacity.
However, it is possible that some professionals associate the practice of training with the use of some accessories, similar to those of pilates, such as:
- Swiss ball;
- traction belt;
- mini trampoline;
- cones;
- ropes;
- kettlebell;
- mini balls;
- functional ladder;
- suspension tape;
- balance kit; and
- agility kit.
Since the use of fixed apparatus is not a rule, the functional exercise can be performed at home without any difficulty, it suffices that the athlete has knowledge about the circuit to be performed and has, even if online, the monitoring of a professional in order to avoid serious injuries .
Did you like the news? So you’ll also love to know that most gyms offer these classes with trained teachers and professionals.
Just look for the establishment closest to you and ask how the functional classes work. Some venues may offer individual, duo or group training packages.
It is also possible to carry out activities outdoors and the staff responsible for training can prepare more fun classes, including exercises focused on football, volleyball or even based on CrossFit, but without impact.
