Sunderland Public Library
Mondays through Aug 2025
10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
This weekly program demonstrates how exercise can enhance our daily living skills. All of us have some specific aches and pains that can be remediated with functional training in the form of balance exercises, dynamic and static stretching, flexibility training, and other body weight exercises.
All fitness levels are welcome as any exercise can be modified to match your fitness strengths.
What is Functional Training?
Functional training is a type of exercise that focuses on building strength, stability, and mobility to support everyday movements.
Unlike traditional gym routines that isolate specific muscle groups, functional training mimics real-life activities, like bending, lifting, reaching, and twisting, so your body becomes better prepared for the physical demands of daily life.
Exercises often include compound movements such as squats, lunges, push-ups, and core work, sometimes using equipment like resistance bands, kettlebells, or medicine balls.
Why is Functional Training Important
Functional training improves how your body works as a whole. It strengthens not just your muscles but also your coordination, balance, and joint stability.
That’s important whether you’re lifting groceries, playing with your kids, or simply getting out of a chair.
It helps reduce the risk of injury by improving how your muscles work together and how your body responds to movement. It can also be beneficial for older adults looking to maintain independence and reduce fall risk.
Who It’s For
Functional training is adaptable to all fitness levels and age groups. It’s great for beginners because it teaches proper movement patterns.
Athletes use it to improve performance in their sport.
And people recovering from injury often rely on it during rehab to rebuild everyday strength. It’s about moving better, living stronger, and preventing setbacks before they happen.
