Tri-Functionality

Functional Training Makes Member a Better Triathlete

Jonathan Amoia, a 33-year-old triathlete and resident of East Amherst, N.Y., was originally drawn to Hive Lifespan Center due to convenience. “Once inside, [I] chose it due to its state-of-the-art facilities and motivating environment,” Amoia recalled. “I have been an athlete and gym-goer for most of my life, so I was just looking to keep the train chugging.”

A triathlete trains via functional fitness. — **Photo credit – Dan Cappellazzo.**

The Struggle

As a triathlete, Amoia had little trouble staying motivated to workout. However, he did struggle to maintain an intense, endurance-based workout schedule. This was made even more difficult by lower leg pain, which Amoia assumed was caused by problems in his feet or ankles.

After working with Hive trainer Nick Bendixen on his functional fitness, Amoia realized his assumptions about where his pain originated from were wrong. “Nick immediately realized that it was hip imbalances that were causing the problem, and since working out with him, I have not been sidelined,” said Amoia.

Bendixen has been a trainer at Hive for almost four years. During that time, he has witnessed the physical issues that functional training can reveal. “Functional training allows us to utilize multi-joint, and multi-planar movements specific to Jonathan’s sport requirements,” said Bendixen. “These movements are meant to teach Jonathan’s body the proper way to accelerate and decelerate forces, as well as stabilize against forces that may change his alignment.”

The Solution

With the source of his pain uncovered, Amoia was able to improve his core strength, stabilization, endurance and range of motion. As a result, he became a better triathlete. “Functional training allows me to target the imbalances that are created through triathlon training and sitting at a desk for many hours every day,” he said. “By staying balanced, I avoid injury and can continue to train hard on a daily bases.”

Staying balanced has allowed for better and faster results during Amoia’s triathlon events. “It has helped to keep me fairly injury free and allowed me to push the limits necessary to become better,” said Amoia.

The Takeaway

Bendixen believes that functional training should be a staple in all triathletes’ workout regimens. “I believe functional training is essential for triathletes, and all athletes as well,” he said. “The focus on teaching your muscles and parts to work synergistically is important for optimizing performance.”

Due to Amoia’s success with Bendixen, he has a heightened respect for Hive Lifespan Center. “Hive is a first-class operation, from facility to management to trainers,” he said. “Nick is very knowledgeable about the body and is always thinking ahead of where a problem can arise. He keeps workouts fresh and pushes me to go beyond where I would push myself.”

Amoia tested those limits on April 6, 2014, during the Nautica South Beach Triathlon. He is grateful for the increased training he received to prepare. “Mostly though, it is just about living a healthy lifestyle and being a good example,” he added. “The races are fun, but it is the daily journey and commitment that is much more important. ”