 Yesterday you had an amazing workout. Those calf raises and killer sets on the leg extension machine are really paying off - your stiletto-clad pins have never looked better! Today you lifted the groceries out the car and threw your back out. You might look toned and ready to hit the beach, but if the thought of hoisting the little one out the bath makes your back wince, chances are you're not functionally fit.
So what does being functionally fit actually mean? Contrary to what some may think, it doesn’t involve balancing awkwardly on a stability ball while juggling various objects over your head. Functional fitness is about training your body to replicate movements found in everyday activities. Doing a crazy balancing act on a stability ball might be good for circus performers, for the rest of us, unnecessary and somewhat embarrassing. The key to functional exercise is integration. It’s about teaching all the muscles to work together, rather than isolating them to work independently. Next time you’re down at the local park take a look at the kids - lifting, catching, pulling, pushing and throwing – movements we’re all likely to perform throughout our lives. So what exercises should we be doing to stay functionally fit? The squat, push press, push up, sit up, deadlift and pull up are all basic lifts and body movements that can be easily translated into everyday activities. If you’re just starting out these movements can seem a little daunting, but when taught correctly these movements will see you safely through almost any movement in life. Remember – correct form is crucial! See here for my spotlight on push ups. Mastering these exercises can change your daily working routine, mean the difference between independent living and fulltime care later in life, or simply give you the ability to enjoy the odd game of tennis or to play freely with your children. Be fit, be functional!
3 Comments
Jessi
8/8/2024 09:02:29 pm
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Hello and Welcome!
Hi! I'm Amanda and I'm so glad you found us. We would love to help you reach (and maintain!) your health and fitness goals.
I started She's a Knockout in 2009 after discovering for myself the life-changing benefits of healthy eating and regular exercise and becoming a qualified personal trainer and boxing instructor - I wanted to empower other women by sharing this knowledge! I've lost over 20kg myself and have kept it off many years and 2 kids later. Along the way there's been challenges - learning about nutrition and exercise, struggling for years to fall and stay pregnant, then sustaining a healthy and active lifestyle while raising young kids. I've personally selected a team of positive, empathetic, encouraging and professional female trainers to help you lose weight, get fit and feel strong, sexy and confident! We specialise in training women in all stages of their lives, including prenatal and postnatal. We come to you in many locations across Perth - whether it's your home, local park, apartment gym or office. We bring all the equipment and will come at a time and place that suits you. |
