How can you dispel common myths about functional training and anatomy for your clients?

1 Myth 1: Functional training is only for athletes

Some clients may think that functional training is too advanced or specific for them, and that they should stick to more traditional exercises. However, functional training is not only for athletes, but for anyone who wants to improve their quality of life and prevent injuries. Functional training is based on the idea of training the body as a whole, rather than isolating individual muscles or joints. This way, you can enhance your movement patterns, coordination, balance, and stability, which are essential for performing everyday tasks and activities. You can also tailor functional training to your clients' goals, needs, and abilities, by choosing exercises that mimic or challenge their functional demands.

2 Myth 2: Functional training requires fancy equipment

Another myth that some clients may have is that functional training requires expensive or complex equipment, such as suspension trainers, kettlebells, or medicine balls. While these tools can add variety and challenge to your functional training sessions, they are not mandatory or superior to other options. Functional training can be done with minimal or no equipment, as long as you focus on the quality and purpose of the movement. You can use your own body weight, resistance bands, dumbbells, or even household items to create functional exercises that target multiple muscle groups and joints. The key is to use the equipment that suits your clients' level, preference, and availability.

4 Myth 4: Functional training is always safe and effective

Some clients may believe that functional training is always safe and effective, regardless of how they perform it or what exercises they choose. However, functional training is not a magic bullet that guarantees results or prevents injuries. Functional training can be beneficial, but it can also be harmful if done incorrectly or inappropriately. As a trainer, you need to assess your clients' functional abilities, limitations, and risks before designing and implementing a functional training program. You also need to monitor your clients' form, feedback, and progress, and adjust the program accordingly. Functional training requires proper technique, progression, and variation, as well as adequate recovery and rest.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?