Functional fitness training: what it is and how it benefits seniors

As we age, everyday tasks become more physically challenging. Activities such as getting up from a seated position, putting on a coat, dusting furniture and putting away groceries become difficult for many people. Functional fitness training helps seniors continue to perform these types of tasks without experiencing excessive strain.

What is functional fitness training?
Functional fitness training involves exercise routines that mimic the activities of daily life. The focus is primarily on balance, core strength, endurance and multi-joint flexibility.

Why is it great for seniors?
Nearly everyone stands to benefit from functional fitness training, but it’s particularly advantageous to seniors. As we grow older, we begin to lose muscle mass, bone strength and our sense of balance. Functional fitness training will help seniors remain independent for as long as possible. Plus, unlike exercise machines and weight training, it’s a low-intensity form of exercise and shouldn’t cause strain or injury.

Want to give functional fitness training a try? More and more commercial gyms are starting to offer such programs. See if there’s a class close to you that you can sign up for.