What does "functional training" refer to?

Functional training refers to exercises designed to enhance the body's ability to perform everyday activities and sports-related tasks. This type of training emphasizes movement patterns that mimic those encountered in daily life, such as bending, lifting, pushing, and pulling. The goal is to improve overall functional strength, stability, flexibility, and coordination, which can help prevent injuries and enhance performance in various activities and sports.

The focus on real-life movements means that functional training often incorporates multiple muscle groups and requires the integration of balance and core stability. By training in this way, individuals can become more efficient at performing daily tasks and athletic movements, ultimately improving their quality of life and athletic performance.

Other options focus on isolated aspects of fitness. Training that focuses solely on strength does not take into account the functional movements that are applicable to daily life. Cardiovascular exercises, while important for overall fitness, typically do not emphasize the specific functional movements needed for daily activities. Rest and recovery practices are crucial for an athlete's regimen but do not constitute functional training in themselves. Therefore, the emphasis of functional training on preparing the body for a range of practical and athletic movements distinguishes it from these other types of training.