What are some ways to ensure everyone is aware of progress when collaborating with functional training peers?
Functional training is a type of exercise that involves performing movements that mimic real-life activities, such as lifting, pushing, pulling, twisting, and balancing. It can improve your strength, flexibility, coordination, and overall fitness. However, functional training can also be challenging, especially if you are working with other peers who have different goals, levels, and preferences. How can you ensure that everyone is aware of the progress you are making and that you are supporting each other effectively? Here are some ways to collaborate with functional training peers and keep track of your achievements.
One of the first steps to collaborate with functional training peers is to set clear and realistic goals for yourself and your group. You should identify what you want to achieve, why you want to achieve it, and how you will measure it. For example, you might want to improve your core stability, reduce your lower back pain, or prepare for a specific sport or activity. You should also consider your current fitness level, your available time, and your resources. You can use the SMART framework to set goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By setting clear and realistic goals, you can communicate your expectations, monitor your progress, and celebrate your milestones with your peers.
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Always set clear objectives and goals. SMART goes are a great way to ensure that you’re being specific, measurable, revelevant, realistic and they are attainable in a time period. For example, if have a group of mothers that want to rehab their core postpartum. Check everyones level of fitness, core strength, and address any Diastis recti. Also incorporate building a stronger pelvic floor and diaphragm (all muscle groups that involve your core) with specific movements/exercises that will benefit your goal. A strong core is the foundation of functional exercises and movements. Celebrate milestones and have a plan after you achieve your goal. Make it a lifestyle approach to keep the goal you achieved.
Another way to collaborate with functional training peers is to choose appropriate exercises and equipment that suit your goals and abilities. Functional training can involve a variety of movements and tools, such as bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, kettlebells, medicine balls, stability balls, and TRX suspension trainers. You should select exercises and equipment that match your objectives, challenge your muscles, and prevent injuries. You should also consult with a certified trainer or a health professional if you have any doubts or concerns. By choosing appropriate exercises and equipment, you can optimize your performance, avoid boredom, and share your feedback with your peers.
A third way to collaborate with functional training peers is to use a tracking system that allows you to record and share your progress. You can use a simple notebook, a spreadsheet, a mobile app, or a online platform to track your functional training sessions. You should include information such as the date, the duration, the exercises, the sets, the reps, the weight, the intensity, the rest periods, and the comments. You should also track your outcomes, such as your weight, your body fat percentage, your muscle mass, your flexibility, your pain level, and your satisfaction. By using a tracking system, you can evaluate your results, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and communicate your achievements with your peers.
A fourth way to collaborate with functional training peers is to give and receive feedback that helps you improve and motivate each other. You can give feedback by observing, praising, suggesting, and encouraging your peers. You should be specific, constructive, honest, and respectful. You can receive feedback by listening, asking, thanking, and acting on your peers' comments. You should be open-minded, curious, appreciative, and responsive. By giving and receiving feedback, you can learn from your experiences, enhance your skills, and strengthen your relationships with your peers.
A fifth way to collaborate with functional training peers is to celebrate and reward your progress and achievements. You can celebrate by acknowledging, congratulating, and sharing your successes with your peers. You can also celebrate by creating a fun and positive atmosphere, such as playing music, telling jokes, or having a group chat. You can reward yourself and your peers by treating yourselves to something you enjoy, such as a healthy snack, a massage, a movie, or a gift. You can also reward yourselves by setting new goals, trying new exercises, or joining new challenges. By celebrating and rewarding your progress and achievements, you can boost your morale, increase your confidence, and maintain your enthusiasm with your peers.
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