Without question, a well-rounded training regiment is essential for overall physical fitness performance. A perfect example of well-rounded training the functional training method. Functional training is the classification of all exercises that prepare one for the duties of everyday life. But if you are in a branch of the military, where "everyday duties" are vastly different for you than for the average civilian, you may be asking youreself, "Does functional training apply to me?" and "Is functional training enough of a workout."

We answer with a resounding, "YES!"

Functional training comes in many forms, from the use of everyday materails, to workouts with medicine balls and plyo boxes, to the more formal technique of using a functional trainer weight machine.

One Functional Trainer pin-select machine that has been called the "Swiss army knife of Functional Trainers" by several reviewers, is the Legend Fitness Functional Trainer. Built of heavy-duty steel tubing, this machine is not only a great fit for military gyms, but it is also made in the USA (just outside of Knoxville, Tennessee) by one of the nation's largest commercial fitness equipment manufacturers. 

Take a look at the photo below and post your comments and questions. A list exercises that can be performed on this piece of equipment, links to accessories, and a demo video will be posted shortly... Check back soon!

MAKE 2008 THE YEAR TO KEEP RESOLUTIONS!
Tips from Kelly Smith, Master of Sports Science, United States Sports Academy

We all make New Year's Resolutions each January, but how many of us actually keep them? Let's make this the year we follow through with our fitness goals. Below are some quick tips from Kelly Smith.

1. What seems to be the most common fitness resolutions you see people make each year?
Lose weight! Lose weight! Lose weight!

2. What factors prevent people from reaching these goals?
Time – commitment – sacrifice. Are people (myself included) willing to sacrifice what it takes?

3. What are the most important things to remember for someone just getting started in a fitness routine?
All studies show that exercise has to become a habit -- three times per week for ten weeks.

Start slow.
Start with a friend.
Set reasonable goals.

4. What are your best tips for staying on-track with fitness resolutions?
Be held accountable through a friend or personal trainer.

5. What should people do to make sure they're getting the most out of their workouts?
Schedule or budget time! And have a goal for each workout (ie. 30 min on a treadmill at 3.0 mph).