Functional Training Anatomy

Fitness trainers have argued about the phrase "functional training" ever since it entered gym vocabulary over ten years ago. Strength and conditioning specialists Kevin Carr and Mary Kate Feit set out to sort fact from confusion, showing readers how to design a program that is purposeful, efficient, and effective. The goal is strength, stability, and mobility that carry over into sport and everyday life.

The book opens by defining what functional training actually involves, then explains why mobility work matters for movement quality, athletic performance, and reducing injury. Warm-up routines prepare the body for high-intensity effort. Medicine ball and plyometric drills teach the body to generate and absorb force, while Olympic lifts, kettlebell swings, and jumping exercises build power. Strength sections address the upper body, lower body, and core through hip-dominant, knee-dominant, pushing, pulling, and core movements.

Each exercise is shown in full-color illustrations that identify the primary and secondary muscles and connective tissue involved. Step-by-step instructions cover multiplanar and unilateral variations so readers can perform each movement correctly and safely. A Functional Focus feature connects each exercise to real activities, from an explosive athletic action to lifting a heavy box. The program combines traditional and nontraditional exercises with mobility drills aimed at building usable strength, lowering injury risk, and preparing the body for both athletic demands and daily living.

The book also offers continuing education credits or units. A continuing education exam based on the book is sold separately or as part of a package that includes both the book and the exam.