Why your gym routine should focus on functional movement?
Whether you’re new to the gym or looking for a refresher, understanding the true purpose of your workouts can make a world of difference in your fitness journey. While many associate hitting the gym with weight loss, the ultimate goal is to utilise functional movement that allows you to live pain-free and with vitality.
But, what exactly is functional movement? It’s about using your body the way it’s meant to be used – with natural, integrated movement patterns that promote strength, flexibility, and mobility. This type of training goes beyond simply lifting weights or using machines. It’s about honing in on exercises that mimic real-life movements and improve your overall quality of life.
Here are the key components of a functional movement-focused gym routine:
1. Free Weight-Based Exercises:
Incorporating exercises that utilise free weights, such as dumbbells and kettlebells, challenges your body’s stabilising muscles and promotes balanced strength development.
2. Single-Leg Exercises:
Working on unilateral movements like lunges and step-ups helps improve balance, stability, and functional strength – key components for staying agile and youthful.
3. Movement Variety:
A well-rounded routine should include a mix of squats, pushes, carries, pulls, and rotational movements, covering all the bases for a comprehensive workout.
It’s important to emphasise that everyone has different abilities and starting points,. You’ll not only improve your physical fitness but also gain a deeper understanding of your body and its capabilities.
What about adding machines to your gym routine?
While machine-based workouts have their place, they should not be the sole focus of your gym routine. By incorporating functional movements, you’re not just building muscle or burning calories – you’re investing in your long-term health and well-being. A commitment to these principles now will set the stage for a healthier, more vibrant you by the end of the year.
So, as you kick off your fitness journey this January, consider aligning your gym workouts with these functional movement principles. When December rolls around, you’ll thank yourself for taking this holistic approach to your fitness routine.
The gym is your playground, and it is where you become an expert in movements. What you seek is in the art of moving.
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