Build your functional and specific strength to equal or exceed the demands of your chosen sport or activity.

If your muscles and tendons cannot handle the stress loads of a given sport or activity in which you participate, you will most likely hurt yourself. Strength and flexibility are the cornerstones of physical fitness, and they – in turn – depend on a well-developed sense of balance and ability to react. If your muscles are weak or tight, there is a greater risk of injury. Stick with your balance and core strength training, and layer on muscle-specific exercises if your chosen sport or activity demands additional development of those muscle groups. Remember, though, never to pursue isolating training on its own – always have functional training as your foundation for fitness.