Strength

Type “strength” into a search engine and the typical definition will include “the state of being strong” or “the capacity to resist strain or stress”. While the latter description is somewhat useful, the former is not very helpful.

Strength is a topic that has re-gained momentum over the past few years in fitness and physical rehab circles. It comes in waves, as so many things do. The second definition mentioned above provides both a desirable trait as well as a limitation.

Resisting strain or stress is a quality that is incredibly useful when lifting heavy things. The intention is to move the weight, and to do this you must prevent motion within yourself. That last part is important. You becoming as stiff and rigid as possible is what allows heavy objects to move, you are the resistance to strain.

The resistance to strain can also be seen as a limitation, due to a reduction in available motion. Training yourself to be as strong as possible induces a set of characteristics that prevent motion, that training creates rigidity. If lifting heavy things is our only desired activity then we are right on track, however if the goal is to be adaptable, we must train fluidity.  

-Austin Ulrich, Physical Therapist