January 12, 2012

The Equation for Peak Physical Performance


The four main components to a healthy physical training regiment are flexibility/mobility, stabilization, strength and power.  All of the components are needed for true peak performance of an individual on a physical level.  As others have investigated, the physical realm is part of 4 larger sections being physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual. 
Without proper flexibility or mobility, we are unable to move our bodies where they should be able to go.  I always laugh when someone says they shouldn’t be able to touch their toes like they were built unable to ever achieve this feat.  It might take lots of hard work, but is possible.  And most of the work is between our ears! 
Stabilization is defined as the ability of the body to maintain postural equilibrium and support joints during movement.   Without having a stabilization system that functions correctly, the likelihood for injury is greatly increased and our ability to output strength and power is decreased. 
Strength is defined as the ability of the neuromuscular system to provide internal tension and exert force against external resistance.  In simple terms, decreased internal tension (stabilization) = decreased force against external resistance (strength). 
Power is defined as the ability to exert maximal force in the shortest amount of time.  This is where most sports movements lie and also where most injuries occur.  Power is the tope of the pyramid and with proper preparation of the previous phases, can bring a client to levels of performance never thought possible.  Without a solid foundation, will very likely get undesired results. 

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