Nike Studios 101 - Functional Strength
Today we’re diving into Functional Strength, one of our primary 12-week phases at Nike Training Studio. But first, let’s dispel a common misunderstanding. Being strong doesn’t mean lifting huge weights or developing bulging muscles.
Strength is the foundation upon which all other qualities (balance, mobility, endurance, power, etc) are built, and a critical component of maintaining function in daily life and mitigating injuries.
Being strong means being resilient and able to withstand immense pressure.
Being strong means being able to perform routine daily tasks with ease, tackle complex movement problems like carrying heavy furniture up stairs, bracing from a fall, or getting up off the ground with your 5-year old on your back, and not getting injured.
Muscle is the organ of longevity, and developing strength is one of the most effective ways to extend healthspan and maintain an active lifestyle.
This is exactly what our Functional Strength phase focuses on.
• In the studio, Nike Studios members move through hundreds of variations of dumbbell and kettlebell lunges, squats, deadlifts, presses and pulls. Just like in real life, the load, direction, and stances consistently change.
• Members use bodyweight with pull-ups, pushups, and single leg squats.
• And finally, we incorporate unconventional methods like sandbags, bands, and sleds to prime the muscle for maximum versatility and function.
Because life is worth being strong for.