Functional training is one of the newest crazes, but not a fad without cause. Though we may be training for gym-quality situations and keeping healthy doing so, training the body for daily activities, like lifting a heavy TV or getting your child or grandchild out of his car seat, has possibly more importance than just losing weight.

Instead of the gym exercises that isolate muscles, functional training is about getting all your muscles to work together. Functional fitness training means using your own balance, instead of leaning against the pads of machines, and supporting your own weight, like standing on two feet while lifting something. This concept is not only a key in keeping all ages healthy and away from injury, it is especially important as we age.

Functional weight rows are a great example. Instead of using the gym’s weighted row, try standing up and leaning over for a bent-over row that will emulate a nurse bending over a patient, or a grandparent bending over her grandchild. Start by learning to balance your own weight. This alone may prevent the most common injury of older adults: falls. Perhaps begin with a casual Tree Pose, taking from yoga. Once solid balance is obtained on both sides, branch into a one legged squat. As this becomes less of a challenge, add a small amount of weight, either through a dumbbell or small cartons of liquid.

Other common complaints, like painful lower back or tendinitis from repeated strain, can be prevented from functional circuit training. Investing in a personal trainer in Queens is the best way to start. Ask a trainer in your area for help developing a circuit that focuses on strength, but also mobility, flexibility, balance, and cognitive function. Without consistent feedback about your form and performance, unsupervised training sessions have been shown to be less successful. Long Island City personal trainers can offer specialized help with setting up a functional exercise circuit.