Why we have so much exercise variety at the STRIVE® Training Club in Osborne Park.
At STRIVE®, we use a variety of exercises, but our training is not ‘Random’. We focus on specific movement patterns that can be applied in many different ways.
Why training different movement patterns matters?
Now, there are a finite number of different movements our bodies can do.
For example let’s look at the Clean and Jerk;
When you pick up the barbell from the floor (Deadlift), you're performing a ‘hip-hinge movement pattern’, which works the muscles on the back of your body, like your glutes, hamstrings, and lower back.
You then perform a ‘squat based movement pattern’ (Front Squat) where you stand the bar up, which activates the muscles in your legs as well as your core.
Finally, you perform a press based movement pattern (Shoulder to Overhead), where you press the bar overhead, using your shoulder, tricep, and core muscles.
There are a few fundamental movement patterns, but not many. However, there are countless exercises we can do for each of these movements.
Let's take the example of lifting something from shoulder height to overhead. You can:
Lift a barbell overhead.
Lift a barbell overhead with the help of your legs.
Lift dumbbells overhead (or just one dumbbell).
Lift while standing, sitting, or kneeling.
Even though lifting something overhead is just one movement, there are many different exercises that fit this pattern.
Why is this variety important?
Using different exercises keeps training interesting and effective.
Here are some of the benefits:
Doing different exercises prevents boredom and keeps you motivated.
Training with a variety of exercises prepares you for real-life activities. For example, even if you haven’t specifically trained to lift a heavy bag onto a shelf, the variety of exercises you do at STRIVE® prepares your body for such tasks.
By changing exercises frequently, you strengthen your muscles and joints in different ways, making them more resilient and reducing the risk of injury.
Finally, the ability for us to change exercises to suit each client's individual needs and injuries means they can still work the same ‘movement pattern’ while accommodating their injuries. For example, if one of our members is recovering from a knee injury and can't do a full depth squat, we offer alternatives like a reverse sled drag or high box squat. This way, they can still strengthen their legs without causing knee pain.
Our training prepares you for everyday tasks, such as lifting heavy items, by using exercises that mimic these movements. This approach ensures you're ready for anything life throws at you.
Conclusion
To get the most out of your workouts and see improvements in your daily life, choose a variety of exercises and keep your training diverse and engaging.
At STRIVE ®, our Small Group Personal Training sessions and Fitness Classes ensure your workouts are constantly varied, helping you stay motivated and achieve your fitness goals.
Find out how you can achieve your health & fitness goals without long hours at the gym, with STRIVE Training Club.
