Hello, functional fitness enthusiasts! If you're wondering what is the functional strength training on Apple Watch, I am here to answer that for you today!
The Apple Watch was not only designed as a smartwatch but also as a fitness tracker and it's one of the best ways to utilize the Apple Watch for functional strength training.
And so if you're interested in becoming fitter and better functional overall and not a fan of going to the gym or lifting heavy weights and prefer a more natural way for your body to improve, you'll definitely want to learn about the Apple Watch's functional strength training.
What is Functional Strength Training?
Before we get into the specifics of using the Apple Watch, here's a quick refresher on what functional strength training is. Unlike traditional strength training, which often focuses on isolated muscle groups, functional strength training aims to improve your ability to perform everyday activities.
This involves exercises that mimic real-life movements, enhancing your strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination.
Some Benefits of Functional Strength Training:
- Improved daily performance: From lifting groceries to playing with your kids.
- Reduced injury risk: Strengthening muscles used in everyday activities.
- Enhanced balance and coordination: Essential for all movements.
- Better posture and core strength: Reducing back pain and improving overall stability.
Why Use Apple Watch for Functional Strength Training?
The Apple Watch is more than just a smartwatch; it's also a fitness tool that can motivate you & enhance your functional strength training routine. Here’s why:
- Activity Tracking: The Apple Watch tracks various activities, providing real-time data on your performance. This includes heart rate, calories burned, and duration, allowing you to monitor your progress accurately.
- Workout App: The built-in Workout app offers specific modes for different exercises, including functional strength training. This helps you stay focused and ensures you’re performing the right exercises for your goals.
- Motivation and Reminders: The Apple Watch keeps you motivated with reminders to stand, move, and exercise. It also offers achievement badges and challenges, making your fitness journey more engaging.
- Health Monitoring: With features like heart rate monitoring, ECG, and blood oxygen level tracking, the Apple Watch provides a holistic view of your health, helping you adjust your training as needed.
Functional Strength Training Examples
Here are some functional strength training exercises you can perform, tracked by your Apple Watch:
- Squats: Strengthens your legs and core, mimicking the motion of sitting and standing.
- Lunges: Enhances balance and coordination & strengthens legs and glutes.
- Push-Ups: Builds upper body strength & core stability.
- Planks: Strengthens core, shoulders, and back.
- Deadlifts: Strengthens core, shoulders, and back.
How to Set-up Functional Strength Training on Apple Watch
To get started with functional strength training on your Apple Watch, follow these steps:
1. Open the Workout App on your Apple Watch
2. If this is your first time doing a Functional Strength Training workout, scroll all the way down and tap Add Workout
3. Find Functional Strength Training by scrolling through the alphabetical list and tap it
4. To start, tap Functional Strength Training again, or tap the three dots in the corner to customize your workout settings
5. Tap Create Workout
6. Select your workout type: open-ended, timed, calorie-based, or custom
7. Tap the created workout to begin
8. To pause, swipe from left to right
9. Tap Pause to pause
10. When finished, tap End
11. After ending Look over summary
Don't forget that consistency is key in functional strength training. So you can use the Apple Watch’s reminders and streaks to stay motivated.
Functional strength training on the Apple Watch is very useful for anyone looking to improve their fitness in practical, meaningful ways.
By incorporating these exercises into your routine and leveraging the powerful features of the Apple Watch, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your fitness goals and enhancing your daily life.
Whether you’re new to functional fitness or a seasoned pro, the Apple Watch offers the tools and motivation you need to stay on track.
So, lace up those sneakers, fire up your Apple Watch, and let’s get moving towards a fitter, healthier you!
Stay functional, stay fit!
Sources:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/105089 – About Workout Types – Apple Support
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252489787?sortBy=best – What is the difference between functional strength training and traditional strength training modes in the Apple Watch? – Apple Discussions