“We scale load and intensity; we do not change programs.” In other words, “the needs of Olympic athletes and our grandparents differ by degree, not kind.” ⁣
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Why? Because everyone, of every age and ability, will benefit from the practice of functional movements.⁣
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“We say functional movements are “Natural,” meaning they are not movement patterns used only at the gym. Rather, these movements are found everywhere in human behavior and arise spontaneously as a response to life.

For example, getting up out of a chair requires an air squat; picking up groceries from the floor, a deadlift; getting a five-gallon water jug onto a table, a clean; placing items on a high shelf, a shoulder press.⁣
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These are the movements life demands — whether we practice them or not — which makes them essential to independent living.

When we lose the ability to perform functional movements, we also lose the ability to live independently. This is called decrepitude.

By practicing these essential movements, we can stave off decrepitude and keep ourselves and our loved ones out of the nursing home.” ⁣

The above was post from CrossFit Training.

CrossFit is a popular fitness program that has gained a following over the last decade. It's a high-intensity exercise program that incorporates elements of weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio. CrossFit workouts vary from day to day, and they generally involve a combination of functional movements done at a high intensity to maximize results. CrossFit is notorious for its tough workouts, which can leave even the fittest athletes exhausted. Despite its reputation for being an intense program, CrossFit is becoming increasingly popular among fitness enthusiasts who enjoy the challenge and the community that is built through group classes.

It’s a high-intensity workout program that incorporates weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardiovascular exercises. It promises to improve your strength, mobility, endurance, and agility. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who are new to fitness or have preexisting health conditions. It is a great workout, but you have to move well to avoid injury. You have to listen to your body, give yourself enough time to recover, and stay hydrated. This way you can avoid muscle soreness, fatigue, physical or mental exhaustion, and even burnout.

Workouts can be scaled to meet your individual needs and capability but often, athletes can try and exceed their own ability. They listen to their ego and increase weight or intensity faster than their tissue can tolerate it. So be cautious, pay attention to movement points of performance, and technique, and listen to your coaches.

If you want to learn more about functional training, contact PAR5 Physical Therapy for more information.

PAR 5 Physical Therapy specializes in helping active individuals in Morris County, NJ get back to exercising and working out pain-free without taking time off or relying on injections/pain medication. PAR5PT offers physical therapy and performance services to all populations, with specialties in Orthopedics, Golf Fitness Training and Rehab, Manual Therapy Techniques, and Wellness Services.

If you’re dealing with anything, big or small, and you have questions, just call/text 973-490-4955.