What differentiates functional strength and conditioning training from your typical bro-split, we hear you ask?

In short, it is training that ‘attempts to mimic the specific physiological demands of real-life activities’. Unlike isolation exercises, resistance and body weight exercises can help you to become stronger, more flexible and better equipped to handle the day not to mention faster when you’re running for the train.

Marketing Director at Third Space, Lauren Wilson, said: “The popularity of our Rig and Athletic class programmes has risen over 30% in the last two years along with a demand from members for more open spaces for functional training.”

And it’s not just Third Space that has seen an increase in interest. Earlier this year in their annual Pinterest 100 report, Pinterest revealed that searches for resistance band workouts were up +1913% too.

We caught up with Kate Maxey, Strength and Conditioning Master Trainer at Third Space, to find out what 3 functional exercises we should all be doing:

THE ‘MAN MAKER’ (OR WOMAN MAKER!)

This is a full body exercise using dumbbells: press up into renegade rows, jump up to standing, bicep curl and finish with an overhead press.

Ten reps of these and your whole body will be on fire.

KB SWING

Fire up your core, glutes and hamstrings with this explosive, dynamic and variable exercise.

Perfect your technique and then build up the kettlebells weight week in week out to benefit from this exercise. You won’t just build strength, but will also develop your fitness and stamina with every single swing.

FARMERS CARRY

Whether you have the official farmers carry equipment or not, this exercise can be done anywhere anytime.

Simply load up with two heavy weights and get walking. Ensure you go heavy enough to test every muscle in your body. Not only will you feel it in your grip, back, arms, core and legs, but your lungs will also be on fire.

Kate Maxey is Strength and Conditioning Master Trainer at London Luxury Health Club, Third Space