2 - FUNCTIONAL FITNESS

EVERYDAY MOVES FOR EVERYDAY STRENGTH

Functional fitness has proven to be a steady trend in the fitness and health industry (#2 in 2024) that focuses on training the body for real-life movements and daily activities. Unlike traditional weightlifting or isolated exercises, functional fitness emphasizes multi-joint, compound movements that enhance strength, mobility, balance, and flexibility in a practical, holistic way. This type of training mimics natural patterns such as squatting, pushing, pulling, lifting, and rotating, which are essential for tasks like carrying groceries, playing with children, or even improving posture while working at a desk. By incorporating balance and stability type equipment (up two spots to #2 from 2024) such as resistance bands, suspension trainers, balance boards and stability balls, and body weight, functional fitness exercises are accessible and adaptable for people of all fitness levels. The trend aligns with the growing demand for sustainable, injury-preventive workouts that enhance quality of life and lay the foundation for longevity – adding life to our years. For Kyla Faganely, owner of Fit Bodies, Fit Minds and Personal Training Specialist of the Year 2024, functional fitness has been a cornerstone of her philosophy, “Exercises that answer a strong “why” are the foundation for improving not just gym performance, but everyday functionality. This principle resonates across demographics, from youth to active agers, and aligns with the growing recognition that purposeful movement is essential for lifelong vitality.”

One of the key drivers behind the popularity of functional fitness is its role in injury prevention and rehabilitation. By focusing on core stability, joint health, and overall movement efficiency, functional fitness reduces the risk of common injuries that occur due to muscular imbalances or a sedentary lifestyle. It is particularly beneficial for older adults, as it promotes better balance, coordination, and strength, enabling them to maintain independence and confidence in their daily lives. For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, functional training offers performance-enhancing benefits that translate directly into their sports or activities.

Functional fitness also integrates well with other health trends, such as bootcamp-style conditioning, group fitness, active recovery, and mindful movement practices like yoga and Pilates. This fusion provides diverse, engaging workouts that meet the physical and mental needs of today’s fitness consumer. Furthermore, as more people recognize the importance of holistic wellness, functional fitness continues to hold its own as an essential part of a healthy, active lifestyle. Fitness professionals are increasingly offering functional fitness programs in personal training sessions, group classes, and online platforms, highlighting its versatility and effectiveness. In a world where movement quality often takes a backseat to sedentary habits, functional fitness is redefining exercise as a tool for longevity, independence, and improved performance in everyday life.

WHEN I TEACH MY CARDIO STRENGTH CLASS, I ALWAYS PROMOTE THE IMPORTANCE OF FUNCTIONAL FITNESS AS A TRAINING PROTOCOL FOR EXCELLING AT THE MOST IMPORTANT SPORT OF ALL—THE SPORT OF LIFE. FUNCTIONAL FITNESS IS ESPECIALLY ESSENTIAL FOR ACTIVE AGING AS IT EMPOWERS PEOPLE TO MOVE BETTER, FEEL STRONGER, AND MAINTAIN INDEPENDENCE, ENABLING THEM TO TRULY THRIVE AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE.

MAUREEN HAGAN, COO CANFITPRO, GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR & LICENSED PHYSIOTHERAPIST.