Principles of Functional Exercise

(Ben Green) #1

Brainstem



  • The link between the sensory and motor nerves coming from the brain to the body and
    vice versa.

  • Connects the brain to the spinal cord.

  • In charge of all the functions your body needs to stay alive, such as breathing, digestion
    and circulation.

  • Important component of coordination and control movement, balance and posture
    stabilization. Necessary when performing a single-leg dumbbell shoulder press with
    alternating arm motion.


The Medulla Oblongata is the lower portion of the brainstem. It is responsible for controlling
several major autonomic functions of the body, notably respiration and circulation.


Basal Ganglia



  • Instrumental in the initiation and control of receptive voluntary movements, as well as
    aiding in postural maintenance and muscle tone. (i.e., walking, running, multiple
    repetitions during resistance training)

  • Monitors specific movement parameters such as velocity, direction and amplitude.

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