When starting a fitness journey, many people face the challenge of choosing the right type of training that aligns with their goals. Two popular options are bodybuilding and functional fitness -CrossFit style training- but they offer different approaches and benefits.

Understanding the key differences between the two can help you decide which training style suits you best—or if a combination of both could be the perfect fit.

What is Bodybuilding?

Bodybuilding focuses primarily on hypertrophy, which is the growth and development of muscle mass. The primary goal is aesthetic—to build and shape muscles for a well-defined, muscular physique. Bodybuilding programs typically include:

• Isolation exercises: Targeting individual muscle groups (e.g., bicep curls, tricep extensions)
• Higher repetitions with moderate weight: Promoting muscle growth.
• Structured training splits: Dividing workouts by muscle group (e.g., chest day, leg day)

While bodybuilding is highly effective for achieving a sculpted look, it may not necessarily improve overall athleticism, flexibility, or functional movement patterns. It’s more focused on muscle appearance than on functional strength and endurance.

What is Functional Fitness?

Functional fitness, on the other hand, emphasizes training movements that mimic real-life actions. Instead of focusing solely on muscle size, it aims to improve strength, endurance, flexibility, and mobility by working the body as a whole unit. This type of training often includes exercises that engage multiple muscle groups at once, combining elements of weightlifting, cardio, and gymnastics. At Interval Plus, functional fitness programs are designed to enhance athletic performance while also building a lean and toned physique.

Key elements of functional fitness include:

• Compound movements: Squats, deadlifts, lunges, and kettlebell swings
• High-intensity training: Short bursts of cardio followed by recovery periods
• Gymnastics skills: Improving body control through exercises like pull-ups and handstands
• Weightlifting: Incorporating Olympic lifts like clean and jerk or snatch to build power and strength

At Interval Plus, our functional fitness programs combine weightlifting, cardio, and gymnastics, providing a comprehensive workout that not only improves strength but also boosts cardiovascular health and flexibility. This blend of training styles leads to an overall fit physique, making it ideal for those looking to enhance their body’s function as well as its appearance.

Which One is Right for You?

The answer to this question depends on your fitness goals.

• If your goal is to build muscle mass and sculpt your body, bodybuilding might be the better choice. It’s a methodical approach that focuses on muscle development and symmetry, perfect for those looking to compete in physique competitions or simply enhance their muscularity.

• If you want to improve overall strength, fitness, and function, then functional fitness is likely the best fit. Functional fitness at Interval Plus is designed to improve your ability to perform daily activities, enhance your athletic performance, and promote long-term health through a balanced mix of weightlifting, cardio, and bodyweight movements.

The Best of Both Worlds

While bodybuilding and functional fitness are distinct training styles, combining elements from both can yield incredible results. Many people find that mixing strength training with functional movements gives them the best of both worlds—building muscle while staying fit, agile, and injury-free.

At Interval Plus, our functional fitness program incorporates weightlifting to build strength and muscle, while cardio and gymnastics movements improve overall fitness, flexibility, and endurance. This hybrid approach not only helps you achieve a toned and athletic body but also enhances your quality of life by improving movement patterns and reducing injury risk.

Ready to transform your fitness routine? Try out a free class at Interval Plus and see how functional fitness can help you build strength, boost endurance, and achieve a fit, athletic physique. Contact us today to book your first class!