A Functional Path™ Manifesto

My journey
on the Functional Path began many years ago as a search for secrets, just like
any young coach I was looking for that 2% that would give me the edge. After traveling
down many one way dead end streets I began to realize that there were no
secrets, no one answer. I realized that I must take care of the first 98% in
order to be able to do anything with the last 2%. When I discovered the
Functional Path approach I realized that this was a path well traveled. I was
quickly able to stand on the shoulder of many giants who had traveled the road
before with great success.

The road on
the path begins with a definition of function as integrated, multidimensional movement.
With that as foundation functional training is defined as training that
incorporates a full spectrum of training methods, designed to elicit optimum
adaptive response appropriate for the sport or active being trained for. A
spectrum incorporates a broad range of related values, qualities, ideas and
activities. Just as with the spectrum of light certain training methods are
visible and other invisible.

The characteristics
of Functional Path™ training are:

No system of the body is emphasized to exclusion of another, all
systems of the body work together synergistically to produce smooth efficient movement.

No one method or physical quality becomes an end unto itself.

Each athlete is a case study of one; each athlete brings
something unique to the table.

In order to
be considered functional, an exercise or training method must meet all of the
following criteria:

Multiple Plane

Multiple Joint

High Proprioceptive Demand

The Work Must Be Mindful

The goal of
all this process is to develop Athleticism. Athleticism is the ability to
execute athletic movements (run, jump, throw) at optimum speed with precision,
style, and grace in the context of the sport or movement being trained for.

Effective
Functional Path Training™ respects that there are three movement constants that
are continually manipulated. Those constants are the body, gravity and the
ground. In order to optimize the function of the body we must recognize muscle
synergies and train movements not muscles. We must recognize that we are training
connectivity through unity in movement that is integrated not isolated.

The ultimate
goal is build athletes that are adaptable to any athletic demand they face in
training or competition, not athletes that are adapted to one method of
technique. In order to achieve this we must give the athlete increasingly difficult
movement problems to solve. Obviously this is contingent on mastery of fundamental
movements. Without a sound foundation of fundamental movement skills it will be
impossible for the athlete to progress to more advanced sport skills without
greater risk of injury and performance errors. 

Traveling
the functional path is a very challenging endeavor, you must constantly think
about why you are doing what you are doing, and when you are doing it. Be sure
to have your destination clearly in sight at all times. Focus on the need to do
activities that will produce results. Always be aware of where you are spending
your time. Is what you are doing sport appropriate, is it preparing your
athletes for optimum results in competition?

I am looking
forward to having you join me on this journey on the Functional Path. There is
much territory still to be explored and challenges to be met.