Functional fitness training has remained a top trend in the industry since 2008. And According to Bri Sexton, the chief product officer of BLAST in Atlanta, Georgia, it’s more important than ever for health clubs to offer this training upon reopening.
“As the world become more technologically reliant and less people have jobs that are physically active, it is more and more important for fitness facilities to help members keep their bodies moving and moving well,” said Sexton. “Functional training does exactly that. It helps you do everyday activities with more efficiency and less injury.”
This is an easy-to-offer program because according to Sexton, it’s focused around bodyweight, one of the best training tools you will ever use. “Learning how to push, pull, hinge and twist effectively and using those mechanics to squat, lunge, walk, pushup and sit-up will allow members to progress in all other areas of training and sport,” said Sexton.
With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, Sexton believes functional training is needed now more than ever.
“As people find themselves working from home in less ergonomic positions and doing different forms of exercise due to gym closures, facilities will see a high demand in retraining the basic movements when members return,” said Sexton. “Also, since bodyweight is the foundation of functional training, it is easy for facilities to prevent cross-contamination because there is no equipment sharing. And, it is easier to socially distance with functional training.”
Regardless of your member’ fitness goals, functional fitness should be a part of their exercise routines. Implementing functional training into their routines and having trainers who understand it can help your members reach their goals.
“Functional training is the foundation that any effective fitness regime is built on,” said Sexton. “So, having trainers who understand the mechanics and can help people move safely will allow for better member retention, longevity and attendance increases when people can workout more without injury. This has a positive impact on the bottom line.”
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Taylor Gabhart is the editor of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at taylor@peakemedia.com.
