Expert Demystifies Functional Strength Training

GQ quoted exercise physiologist Alexander Rothstein, Ed.D., assistant professor in the exercise science program, in an article about the importance of functional strength training. The training method focuses on exercises that mimic real-life movements and improve overall physical performance. As Rothstein explained, simple but challenging functional movements can be added to existing workouts, allowing people to efficiently reap the benefits without needing to dedicate much time.

“You can do something as simple as grabbing a couple of heavy dumbbells at the end of your workout and walking 100 feet forwards and backwards. That’s a pretty functional task right there, and it’s very stressful on the entire body,” he shared. “That’s a great way to just add the 60 to 120 seconds of a functional exercise at the end of your routine. So, it definitely doesn’t require huge changes. Minor tweaks can really change the definition of your workout from traditional resistance training to functional training.”