Functional Training
Functional Training is a rehabilitation approach that focuses on teaching patients how to perform everyday activities safely and effectively. Unlike traditional exercise that isolates specific muscles, functional training helps people practice real-life movements they need for work, sports, or daily tasks. For example, instead of just strengthening arm muscles, a therapist might help someone practice the motions needed to reach high shelves or lift groceries. This approach is common in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation settings. Other terms that mean similar things are "functional rehabilitation," "functional movement training," or "task-specific training."
Examples in Resumes
Developed Functional Training programs for post-surgery patients returning to work
Implemented Functional Training and Function-Based Exercise protocols for elderly clients
Led group Functional Training sessions for athletic injury recovery
Typical job title: "Functional Training Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Functional Training Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you develop and implement facility-wide functional training programs?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience creating comprehensive programs, training staff, measuring outcomes, and adapting programs based on patient populations and facility needs.
Q: How do you handle complex cases requiring multiple treatment approaches?
Expected Answer: Should explain process of assessment, creating integrated treatment plans, coordinating with other healthcare providers, and adjusting programs based on patient progress.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you modify functional training for different patient populations?
Expected Answer: Should describe how they adapt exercises for different ages, conditions, and ability levels, showing understanding of safety considerations and progression techniques.
Q: What outcome measures do you use to track functional training progress?
Expected Answer: Should mention specific assessment tools, documentation methods, and how they use this information to adjust treatment plans.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is functional training and how does it differ from traditional exercise?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of training for daily activities versus isolated exercises, with simple examples of functional exercises.
Q: How do you ensure patient safety during functional training sessions?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic safety principles, proper form, monitoring patient response, and knowing when to modify or stop exercises.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic exercise instruction
- Patient safety awareness
- Simple program design
- Basic documentation skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Program modification for different populations
- Complex exercise progression design
- Patient education techniques
- Outcome measurement
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and implementation
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex case management
- Quality improvement initiatives
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with patients
- Lack of safety awareness
- Unable to explain basic movement principles
- No understanding of progression/regression of exercises
- Poor documentation skills
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Stop Training Like It's 1999: The Unconventional Guide to Upskilling Your Team for the Future
Navigating Compliance: Structuring On-the-Job Training in Regulated Industries
Unlock Hidden Talent: How Internal Rotation Programs Spark Career Exploration and Boost Retention
