Incorporating Functional Training into Your Workout Routine

Various thoughts may swirl through your mind as you begin to commit yourself to a new workout routine. Perhaps you're filled with determination, envisioning the new, healthier version of yourself. Maybe you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, unsure of where to start or what exercises will best suit your goals. Whatever your mindset, know that you're not alone. At Custom Fitness Solutions of TN (CFSTN), we understand the mix of emotions that come with beginning your fitness journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

At CFSTN, we believe in a personalized approach to fitness, which is why we offer individual consultations to all our clients. Our team of highly skilled and certified personal trainers is dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness goals, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete. With our holistic approach to overall fitness, we take into account your body, health, and lifestyle to create a customized workout plan. Keep reading and contact us today to learn more!

What is Functional Movement.jpg

What is Functional Movement?

One of the key components of our training programs is functional training. This style of exercise focuses on movements that mimic everyday activities, helping you build strength, flexibility, and stability that you can apply to your daily life. Imagine effortlessly carrying groceries up the stairs, playing with your kids or grandchildren without feeling fatigued, or maintaining proper posture while sitting at your desk—all of these scenarios are made possible by mastering functional movement patterns.

In our training programs, we prioritize exercises that mimic real-life movements, such as squatting, lunging, pushing, pulling, bending, twisting, and lifting. These compound movements engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, promoting coordination, balance, and overall body awareness.

For example, a classic functional movement exercise is the squat. Not only does the squat strengthen the muscles of the legs, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, but it also improves hip mobility and core stability. This translates to better performance in activities like getting up from a chair, lifting heavy objects, or even standing for long periods.

Woman tightening a weightlifting belt

Injury Prevention

Functional movement injury prevention is at the core of what makes functional training so effective. By targeting the muscles and joints crucial for stability and mobility, this training approach aims to fortify your body against common injuries that can occur during physical activities and sports.

When you engage in exercises like squats and deadlifts, you're integrating them into coordinated movements that mimic real-life actions. For instance, a squat not only strengthens your quadriceps and glutes but also improves your ability to bend and lift, mimicking movements you might perform when picking up objects or squatting down to tie your shoes. Similarly, deadlifts not only build strength in your lower back and hamstrings but also teach proper lifting mechanics, which are essential for preventing back injuries during activities like lifting heavy objects or playing sports.

Moreover, functional training emphasizes the importance of proper form and technique, which further reduces the risk of injury. By focusing on movement quality rather than just lifting heavier weights, you'll develop better body awareness and control, leading to safer and more effective workouts. Our certified personal trainers at CFSTN are dedicated to teaching you the correct form for each exercise, ensuring that you perform them safely and effectively.

Woman doing core exercises

Increased Core Strength

A strong core is essential for maintaining proper alignment and stability throughout your body. Whether you're lifting heavy objects, reaching for items on a high shelf, or simply standing up straight, a strong core provides the necessary support to prevent injury and maintain optimal biomechanics. By strengthening the muscles of the core, you'll reduce your risk of lower back pain, improve your posture, and enhance your overall functional fitness.

When we talk about the core, we're not just referring to the six-pack abs that are often associated with fitness magazines. Instead, we're talking about a complex network of muscles that includes not only the rectus abdominis (the "six-pack" muscles) but also the internal and external obliques, transverse abdominis, and muscles of the lower back, hips, and pelvis.

Many functional exercises target these core muscles in a variety of ways. Movements like planks, Russian twists, and mountain climbers engage the entire core, helping to strengthen and stabilize the muscles that support your spine and pelvis. As you perform these exercises, you'll not only feel the burn in your abs but also notice improvements in your posture and balance.

Woman exercising with pull ups

Versatility and Adaptability

Whether you're just starting out on your fitness journey or you're a seasoned athlete looking to enhance your performance, we're here to meet you where you are and help you reach your goals. In our private gyms, you'll find a supportive and encouraging environment where our certified personal trainers work closely with clients to develop personalized workout plans. We believe in the power of individualized attention, which is why we offer one-on-one training sessions that focus on your specific needs and objectives. Our trainers are not only experts in functional training but also certified nutritionists and health coaches, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support for both your fitness and nutrition goals.

Incorporating functional training into your workout routine at CFSTN can revolutionize the way you approach fitness. Rather than getting bored with monotonous gym sessions, engage your body in dynamic workouts that translate into real-world strength and resilience. With our personal trainers in Cookeville, you are training for life, not just the gym.

If you are interested in experiencing the difference functional training can make in your life, schedule a complimentary Success Strategy Session with one of our certified personal trainers today! Together, we'll create a customized workout plan that sets you up for success and propels you towards your fitness goals. Let's make every rep count and every movement matter.

Begin Your Fitness Journey