Functional Activities
A functional activity is an exercise that uses many joints and involves various planes of movement, such as side-to-side, diagonal, and forward and back. An exercise is considered functional if it prepares a person for an activity that occurs on a daily basis. Examples include sit to stand, transfers from a bed to a chair, stair climbing, functional squat, lunges, and lifting boxes. Functional exercises are demonstrated and supervised by a therapist to ensure proper body mechanics and the safety of the patient. Exercises are performed by patients in a controlled environment and repetitions are used to improve endurance and coordination.