Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) can be thought of as a system of strength training for the joints. First the joint range of motion is assessed, then workspace within the joint capsule is addressed, and then strength training of the joint and involved soft tissue, (muscles, ligaments, tendons, etc), is done through different techniques.
If you are a physical therapy client and have been cleared by your therapist, FRC is the perfect next step. Functional Range Conditioning work can now take you to the next level of strengthening the injured area, by increasing stability, and closing the gap between passive range of motion and active range of motion, which is where most injuries occur.
FRC is also the perfect adjunct training for any activity, whether it be weight lifting, CrossFit, martial arts, or any sport. Through FRC assessment, we will find where your weak spots are and how your body compensates. From there we will work together to improve joint function, tissue strength, and range of motion. For example, if you are engaging in a sport or exercise that requires you to have power in shoulder extension, like overhead press or a tennis serve for example, but you don’t have the active range of motion in your shoulder to perform this move, your body is going to find some other place to move from to give you that range. This is not good for the joint.
Whatever sport or activity you are in, Functional Range Conditioning can help increase your performance, and prevent/decrease injury. If you are just beginning, or returning to exercise, FRC is the safest way to begin and can be done by anyone at any fitness level. Much of the work is done through isometric contractions, which is not only the strongest way to train and the best way to increase active range of motion (mobility), but is also the safest, as there is no shearing of the joint or soft tissues. Tanya Paty, is our certified Functional Range Conditioning specialist and is available to help you improve your joint performance. Contact her at 480-785-5415 or email her at T.Paty@pritchettept.com