When Dan and I (Rach) were getting ready to open Radix Gym back in 2015, we went to a week-long fitness retreat called Power Monkey Camp that covered all the CrossFit exercises but also had specialty seminars from experts in programming, nutrition, and business.
One of the most interesting talks was The Business of Excellence from Ben Bergeron, owner of one of the biggest CF gyms at the time.
He explained that when we’re looking to bring more members into the gym, we’re not fighting against the local box down the street or the big Globo Gyms in town.
We’re fighting against the people that are sitting on the couch.
Only 15% of the average population goes to the gym.
It’s not about my gym vs your gym.
It’s about Gym vs No Gym.
And we want you to choose GYM.
But maybe you’ve had a bad experience at a different gym.
Maybe you’re tired of machines or bootcamp circuits and want to learn how to use a barbell.
Maybe you’ve heard of Functional Fitness and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) style workouts, but don’t know where to start.
Maybe you’re dreading the overflowing gym scene in Jan and considering waiting until the buzz dies down in Feb/March/never…!
Let’s debunk a few myths and shed light on the holistic benefits that functional movements and HIIT provide compared to traditional gym and bodybuilding routines, and how you can even get these benefits at home.
Myth 1: Traditional Gym Workouts Are the Only Way to Build Muscle
While it’s true that traditional gym workouts, often centered around lifting weights and resistance machines, can help build muscle, functional movements should not be underestimated in this regard.
Functional training uses compound exercises (think squat, press, deadlift) that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
This can lead to more effective muscle development, along with the added benefits of improved coordination, balance, and functional strength for daily life.
Myth 2: Functional Training Is Only for Athletes
Some believe that functional training, with its focus on real-world movements, is reserved for elite athletes, or that everyone wants to train for the CrossFit Games.
In reality, functional movements are for everyone, regardless of fitness level.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, these movements can be tailored to meet your needs and abilities.
Adding weight or decreasing the difficulty are just a few of the ways that they are adaptable and scalable, making them suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Myth 3: HIIT Style Workouts Are Too Intense for Regular People
The high-intensity aspect of HIIT-style workouts might seem intimidating, but it’s a myth that they’re too intense for regular individuals.
HIIT can be customized to match your fitness level.
You can start at a lower intensity and gradually progress as your fitness improves. Intesity is relatve to YOU, and very personalizable.
The time-efficient nature of HIIT allows you to get an effective workout in a shorter time frame, making it ideal for those with busy schedules.
Myth 4: Traditional Gym Workouts Are Safer Than Functional Training
We’ve all seen plenty of Cross-Fail video compliations.
But when performed with proper technique and under the guidance of a certified coach, functional movements are safe and effective.
In fact, many people experience fewer injuries when they transition from isolated/machine-based exercises to functional training, as it improves overall strength, balance, and stability.
Myth 5: Functional Training Doesn’t Offer Cardiovascular Benefits
Functional movements aren’t limited to strength training.
Many functional workouts incorporate high-intensity cardiovascular exercises, such as sprints, burpees, or jump rope, which can elevate your heart rate and improve cardiovascular fitness, even from your garage or living room!
We also use machines such as rowers, skiiers, and bikes in our gym circuits to compliment bodyweight and barbell exercises.
So, you can get the best of both worlds – strength and cardio – through functional training.
The Holistic Benefits of Functional Movements
Functional movements, especially in the context of HIIT-style workouts, offer holistic benefits that extend beyond what traditional gym routines can provide:
1. Efficiency: HIIT-style functional workouts are time-efficient, allowing you to achieve results in less time.
2. Improved Functional Fitness: Functional movements prepare your body for real-life activities, enhancing your overall quality of life.
3. Enhanced Flexibility: Many functional exercises promote flexibility, reducing the risk of injury.
4. Mental Well-being: The endorphin release from high-intensity functional workouts can reduce stress and improve mood.
In conclusion, these exercises offer a holistic approach to fitness, suitable for individuals of all fitness levels.
While traditional gym workouts have their place, and are way better than sitting on the couch, functional training provides a more comprehensive and time-efficient way to achieve your fitness goals while preparing you for the demands of daily life.
Consider incorporating functional movements into your routine and experience the transformative benefits for yourself.
You can do these exercises and workouts at home with just a dumbbell or odd object, or learn how to lift barbells safely at a CrossFit gym.
We’d be glad to help you get started by designing a program for your home gym, or with us at RadixGym!
CONTACT US TODAY and have a wonderful Holiday Season!