Functional Strength

What is functional strength training (KLT - Kinetic Link Training)?

KLT is a resistance training program designed by Internationally renowned Sports Physiotherapist, Wayne Rogers.

It is a biomechanically balanced, full-body training program designed to develop a strong, toned, energized body which moves with ease, efficiency and control.

What should I expect from a functional strength session?

Tracey teaches a series of full body movements over the course of weeks/months; coaching and challenging you to execute these movements with correct technique and with increasing difficulty. Exercises are performed with hand held weights like dumbbells or with resistance band tubing, allowing you to continue training in your own home. Exercises can also be trained extensively in a gym.

I already go to the gym, I practice strengthening exercises, why should I practice functional strength training?

Often pain and injuries occur due to a biomechanical weakness or imbalance which a regular strength program is unlikely to address. KLT is a biomechanically balanced resistance training program, complex in nature, incorporating multi-directional movements requiring balance and co-ordination.

If we train functionally, correct & maintain biomechanical balance, we help to manage and prevent injury.

I’m not fit, I don’t exercise and I’ve never been to a gym…..

All exercises are customised to your individual level. Tracey takes into consideration your current abilities and tailors your program to suit. We don’t all need to bench press 100kg, (in fact no one needs to!). Strength training can be undertaken simply to help one climb the stairs to their front door without pain.

I have sore knees, I seem to always get pain when I exercise….

Pain can often be experienced because the body is not functioning correctly. An imbalance of tight and weak muscles can place a lot of stress on joints as they move. Tracey modifies your movements to avoid, as well as reduce pain. Clients often leave their training session with lessened and sometimes without, the pain they might have been experiencing when they arrived!

How does KLT- Kinetic Link Training differ from regular strength training?

• Traditional strength training is generally performed with a focus on individual muscles, ie: the bicep curl or the knee extension. Functional strength training differs in that it involves whole body exercises, movement is not limited to one joint, (ie: the elbow or the knee) at a time.

• We often rely on the use of external supports when we exercise traditionally; we’ll sit on a seat or use a bench to provide a stable base. Functional strength training relies on internal stability. This approach challenges the body to create our own balance and in doing so we get stronger, as well as improve our stability.

• Functional strength training mimics or supports activities we perform on a daily basis and with our sporting endeavours. By practicing these movements with correct form and technique, we can improve our potential to perform them.