Functional Strength Training
Presented by Elizabeth Lane
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In the realm of physical therapy, the concept of functional strength training has gained significant recognition as an essential component of rehabilitation, injury prevention, and performance enhancement. Functional strength training emphasizes exercises that mimic real-life movements and activities, aiming to improve overall functional capacity and movement quality. As the demand for evidence-based approaches to rehabilitation and fitness continues to grow, there is a pressing need for physical therapists to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in functional strength training. This comprehensive course will cover a range of topics essential for understanding the theoretical foundations, practical applications, and clinical relevance of functional strength training in diverse patient populations.
Learning Objectives
- Evaluate the principles of functional anatomy, biomechanics, and motor control underlying functional strength training exercises
- Prioritize systematic approaches to assessing movement patterns, functional limitations, and strength imbalances to guide exercise prescription
- Develop evidence-based exercise prescription protocols for improving strength, stability, and mobility in hinging patterns
- Develop evidence-based exercise prescription protocols for improving strength, stability, and mobility in upper body pulling and pushing patterns
- Prioritize the unique considerations and modifications necessary when designing functional strength training programs for special populations such as older adults, athletes, and individuals with neurological or orthopedic conditions
Meet your instructor
Elizabeth Lane
Dr. Elizabeth Lane has practiced in outpatient orthopedics for 13 years and taught in postprofessional continuing education since 2013. She received her clinical doctorate in physical therapy from the Medical College of Georgia. She holds board certification in orthopedics and is a fellow of the American Academy of…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Foundations and Assessment of Functional Strength Training
This chapter will explore the principles of functional anatomy, biomechanics, and motor control that underlie functional strength training exercises. Understanding these foundational elements is crucial for designing effective and safe strength training programs. Additionally, the chapter will cover systematic approaches to assessing movement patterns, functional limitations, and strength imbalances, guiding exercise prescription. These assessments are essential for tailoring training programs to individual needs, preventing injuries, and optimizing performance.
2. Designing Functional Strength Training Programs for Special Populations
This chapter will address the unique considerations and modifications necessary when designing functional strength training programs for special populations such as older adults, athletes, and individuals with neurological or orthopedic conditions. Understanding these tailored approaches is crucial for ensuring safety, effectiveness, and adaptability in training programs. The chapter will provide guidelines and evidence-based strategies to accommodate the specific needs and limitations of these populations, promoting optimal health and functional outcomes.
3. Squatting Patterns
This chapter will delve into the breakdown of squat movements and the development of regression and progression protocols to enhance strength, stability, and mobility in squatting patterns. Understanding these elements is crucial for creating safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual capabilities and goals. The chapter will provide evidence-based exercise prescription protocols, ensuring that practitioners can help clients achieve optimal squat mechanics, prevent injuries, and improve overall functional fitness.
4. Hinging Patterns
This chapter will delve into the breakdown of hinging movements and the development of regression and progression protocols to enhance strength, stability, and mobility in hinging patterns. Understanding these elements is crucial for creating safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual capabilities and goals. The chapter will provide evidence-based exercise prescription protocols, ensuring that practitioners can help clients achieve optimal mechanics, prevent injuries, and improve overall functional fitness.
5. Upper Extremity Pushing and Pulling Patterns
This chapter will delve into the breakdown of upper extremity pushing and pulling movements and the development of regression and progression protocols to enhance strength, stability, and mobility in pushing/pulling patterns. Understanding these elements is crucial for creating safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual capabilities and goals. The chapter will provide evidence-based exercise prescription protocols, ensuring that practitioners can help clients achieve optimal mechanics, prevent injuries, and improve overall functional fitness.
6. Other Functional Strength Movement
This chapter will delve into the breakdown of other movements not previously discussed (power, carries, jumps, etc.) and the development of regression and progression protocols to enhance strength, stability, and mobility in these patterns. Understanding these elements is crucial for creating safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual capabilities and goals. The chapter will provide evidence-based exercise prescription protocols, ensuring that practitioners can help clients achieve optimal mechanics, prevent injuries, and improve overall functional fitness.
