The realm of strength training has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. The focus has shifted from traditional weightlifting methods to a more holistic approach known as functional fitness. This evolution represents a significant departure from the isolated muscle-building exercises of the past, heralding a new era where the emphasis is placed on overall physical performance and health.
Akshay, Managing Director of Fit Club, has witnessed this shift firsthand. Reflecting on the past, he notes, “A few years ago, gym floors were dominated by heavy lifting equipment—power racks, bench presses, and rows of dumbbells. The primary focus was on muscle mass and one-rep max strength. While effective, this approach was limited and lacked consideration for functional movement.”
Traditional weight training, characterized by exercises like the bench press, bicep curl, and leg press, has long been popular for muscle hypertrophy and strength gains. However, Akshay emphasizes that these methods do not adequately address functional movement patterns, thus restricting their overall benefits.
The transition to functional fitness marks a paradigm shift in exercise philosophy. “We moved from training isolated muscles to training functional movements,” Akshay explains. This transformation required gyms to rethink their layouts and equipment choices, incorporating items such as kettlebells, battle ropes, and suspension trainers. These changes were a significant investment but proved beneficial in terms of member engagement and retention.
Functional fitness focuses on exercises that simulate real-life movements, promoting multi-system muscle engagement. Examples include squats, lunges, deadlifts, and kettlebell swings. These exercises enhance balance, coordination, and flexibility, making them particularly valuable for improving sports performance and daily activities. They also offer significant benefits to older adults and those undergoing rehabilitation.
“The versatility and accessibility of functional fitness are its greatest strengths,” Akshay asserts. “We’ve seen a diverse range of individuals— from professional athletes to office workers and retirees—drawn to this approach. They seek not just improved appearance but enhanced overall well-being and performance.”
Despite its advantages, the transition to functional fitness has not been without challenges. Some long-time members resisted the change, preferring the traditional weightlifting approach. Akshay recalls the effort required to train staff and members on the new methods, highlighting the financial investment in education and training to ensure safe and effective use of the new equipment.
From a business perspective, the shift to functional fitness has been advantageous. “We’ve diversified our offerings with small group training sessions and specialized classes, which have become significant revenue drivers. Additionally, there has been an increase in personal training sessions as members seek guidance on proper form for compound lifts,” Akshay notes.
However, traditional weightlifting is not being abandoned. Many gyms continue to maintain robust free weight areas, and many members still incorporate heavy lifts into their routines. The key, Akshay emphasizes, is to find a balance between traditional and functional training to achieve optimal results.
Looking ahead, the future of strength training is poised to become increasingly personalized. Akshay envisions a future where technological advancements and deeper exercise science knowledge enable highly customized fitness programs. “As a gym owner, my role is to provide the tools, education, and environment that empower members to achieve their fitness goals, regardless of the approach,” he concludes.
Dr. Dharmesh Shah, Founder and Director of Holistica World, supports this balanced approach. He states, “Weightlifting provides foundational strength, but without functional fitness, this strength may not translate well to everyday movements. Conversely, functional training alone may not build sufficient strength. A combination of both approaches is essential for comprehensive physical development.”
The shift from traditional lifting to functional fitness reflects a broader trend within the fitness industry toward more individualized and practical approaches to health and well-being. As this transition continues to gain momentum, the future of strength training looks promising, offering a more well-rounded and effective path to achieving fitness goals.
