What does the term "functional movement" refer to in kinesiology?

The term "functional movement" in kinesiology specifically refers to movements that enhance daily task performance. This concept emphasizes the importance of engaging in movements that mimic everyday activities, thereby improving an individual's ability to perform routine tasks more efficiently and safely. Functional movements are designed to develop strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination in a way that is directly applicable to real-life scenarios, such as lifting objects, squatting down to pick something up, or reaching overhead.

By focusing on activities that are foundational to daily living, functional movement training aims to improve overall physical function and reduce the risk of injury during these activities. This approach is particularly beneficial for rehabilitation, athletic training, and overall fitness. It contrasts with other types of exercise that may not have a direct application to functional tasks, such as those that focus solely on muscle hypertrophy without considering how those muscles are used in everyday life.