Answers to
FAQs
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Frequently Asked Questions:
What is MedStrength?
MedStrength has been developed by Functional Physio. Due to the success of our spinal strengthening programme we decided to offer not only our patients but the general public a unique opportunity to have access to a training facility that offers health-oriented strength training for the whole body, under the guidance of physiotherapists and skilled exercise instructors.
What is health-oriented strength training?
Health-oriented strength training is about improving the strength of our musculoskeletal system. A strong body retains its mobility, flexibility, function, prevention to injury and independence as we age.
If I join MedStrength will I have Spinal Strengthening Therapy?
Once you have had your MedStrength assessment the physiotherapist will determine whether it is safe for you to join MedStrength and begin a general supervised strengthening programme. If you have any conditions that require physiotherapy and a course of Spinal Strengthening, you will be advised to complete this first. Your physiotherapist will prepare you for a safe progression to a general strength training programme.
Does Pilates provide the same type of strengthening?
No! Pilates cannot fully strengthen muscles such as the important lumbar extensors through the entire range of movement of the lumbar spine, because it does not isolate these muscles in order to strengthen them. Pilates also cannot exercise these muscles to fatigue. It is a scientific fact that muscle need to be exercised to fatigue during each exercise session to regain full strength.
I am a woman – will strength training make my muscles look bulky and masculine?
You will not bulk up with health-oriented strength training. As muscle strength grows, your muscles will attain more mass, but health-oriented strength training aims to increase strength, tone, lean muscle mass and endurance as opposed to strength, mass and power.
How often should I train?
We recommend training 2-3 times per week, especially in the beginning of your training programme, and continuing this for 6 months. To maintain the strength gains you have achieved in the first 6 months, training 1-2 times per week is sufficient.
How can strength training benefit my cardiovascular system?
During strength training there are increased demands placed on the muscles being exercised. The increased demands on the muscles results in more oxygen being required. Oxygen is delivered via the oxygenated blood pumped from the heart. The harder the muscles work, the harder the heart works to supply the required oxygen, resulting in increased heart rate and blood volume. Ultimately this results in enhanced cardiovascular efficiency.
Strength training alone will not transform you into an elite athlete or runner, but you do not need the aerobic capacity of a marathon runner to have a healthy cardiovascular system. Strength training will enable you to be better at the recreational and sporting activities you enjoy.