Functional Strength Training: What is it?
Functional strength training is a type of training designed to enhance movement quality in daily life activities, sports, and exercise. The focus of this training is on compound movements that mimic the movements of daily life, such as squatting, lifting, pushing, and pulling. This type of training focuses on improving balance, coordination, and flexibility to help individuals perform daily activities better.
Benefits of Functional Strength Training
- Enhances flexibility.
- Improves balance and coordination.
- Enhances body control.
- Helps in performing daily activities with ease.
Exercises for Functional Strength Training
- Squats
- Deadlifts
- Lunges
- Push-ups
- Pull-ups
- Planks
Traditional Strength Training: What is it?
Traditional strength training is a type of training designed to increase muscular strength, size, and endurance. The focus of this training is on performing exercises that target specific muscles, such as chest, back, legs, and arms. This type of training is beneficial for individuals who want to increase muscle mass and strength.
Benefits of Traditional Strength Training
- Increases muscle mass and strength.
- Improves bone density.
- Boosts metabolism and burns fat.
- Improves overall physical performance.
Exercises for Traditional Strength Training
- Bench press
- Squats
- Deadlifts
- Bicep curls
- Tricep extensions
- Leg press
The Difference Between Functional and Traditional Strength Training
The main difference between functional and traditional strength training is the focus of each type of training. Functional strength training focuses on enhancing movement quality in daily activities, while traditional strength training focuses on increasing muscular strength, size, and endurance. Both types of training have their benefits and can be incorporated into a well-rounded fitness routine.
Comparison between Functional and Traditional Strength Training
| Functional Strength Training | Traditional Strength Training |
| — | — |
| Compound movements | Targeted muscle movements |
| Enhances movement quality | Increases muscle mass and strength |
| Improves balance and coordination | Improves bone density |
| Enhances body control | Boosts metabolism and burns fat |
Myths about Strength Training
Myth #1: Strength Training is only for Men
Strength training is not just for men. Women can also benefit from strength training. It helps in improving bone density, boosts metabolism, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Also, strength training gives women a lean and toned physique.
Myth #2: Strength Training Makes You Bulky
Strength training does not make you bulky. It is a common misconception that lifting weights makes you bulky. However, in reality, strength training helps in increasing muscle mass and reducing body fat percentage, giving you a lean and toned physique.
Myth #3: Strength Training is Dangerous
Strength training is not dangerous if done correctly. It is essential to use proper form and technique while performing strength training exercises to avoid any injury. Moreover, it is advisable to start with light weights and gradually increase the weight as you progress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, functional and traditional strength training are essential parts of a well-rounded fitness routine. Functional strength training is beneficial for enhancing movement quality in daily activities, while traditional strength training is beneficial for increasing muscular strength, size, and endurance. Both types of training have their benefits and can be incorporated into a fitness routine. Moreover, strength training is not just for men, and it does not make you bulky. It is a safe and effective way to improve overall physical performance.