The Maki Performance Training philosophy consists of eight fitness components which work together to create a balanced body.

Fitness conditioning today is often evaluated on the basis of mere appearance or on a limited number of physical abilities such as endurance or stamina. A true picture of fitness, however, involves the whole range of training disciplines (see the list above ) that drive the human body to perform at a high level.

The Merriam Webster dictionary has defined fitness as “the capacity of an organism to survive and transmit its genotype to reproductive offspring as compared to competing organisms.” In other words, the state of ‘being fit' is based on the reproductive survival rate. However, when we consider what fitness represents in practical terms, the reproductivity issue isn't the first thing that springs to mind.

Maki Performance Training defines fitness as “the ability to complete random physical tasks (which revolve around the eight components listed above) while executing a high level of competency.” Maki Performance Training looks to the findings of exercise science that deal with the factors determining how our bodies react to physical exertion.

Whether you are an athlete, police officer, stay-at-home mom/dad, or a 65-year-old retiree who has never exercised, a training program incorporating the eight principles of Maki Performance Training will improve your performance on the job, in sports and in simple everyday activities.

Listed below are the eight qualities that Maki Performance Training emphasizes in building a better body.

1. Strength Endurance. The ability to produce muscular contractions over an extended period of time.

2. Aerobic/Anaerobic Conditioning. Both of these energy systems are called upon in everyday life. Sometimes the body needs to perform for long periods of time while at other times it's required to exert a lot of effort over a short period. Both systems are responsible for decreasing fat stores in the body and for improving heart and lung capacity. Aerobic work allows us to sustain a low-level work over an extended period of time while anaerobic work increases power output.

3. Relative Functional Strength. The most force a muscle can produce is related to one's bodyweight. Note the word “functional” because it is important that one be able to demonstrate their relative strength in an efficient and safe manner.

4. Postural Symmetry & Muscle Balance. Posture is defined as the position where movements occur. The body performs as a well-oiled unit when its muscles are resting at an optimal length. Everyday work stress, repetitive trauma and strain will change the resting length of various muscles within the body, causing pain and a decrease in movement patterns. Muscle balance refers to the synergistic effect that muscle groups produce during movement. If part of the chain (muscles) is compromised, the movement will be affected.

5. Dynamic Flexibility. Without adequate flexibility, movement can be compromised. Through the use of various dynamic movements, the body's joints are opened up to allow favorable muscle actions to occur.

6. Optimal Body Composition. A body that carries a lower percentage of body fat is at an advantage when performing at a higher level. Body fat is viewed as excess baggage which can lower performance and cause a number of health problems. A variety of nutritional strategies will reduce body fat levels in order to enhance function and performance.

7. Speed & Agility. Movement in every day life is unpredictable and multi-directional,
Your training should address these variables. Various tools will be utilized that deal with body awareness, reaction time, explosive movement and multi directional work.

8. Movement Pattern Conditioning. Movement patterns are the day-to-day activities that challenge the body using multi-joint and on multi-plane levels. Movement pattern conditioning is relevant to real-world challenges especially in people who are sedentary. It prepares the body for movements that will be encountered every day.

These eight components will meet the exercise needs of every client who trains with Maki Performance Training. Programs will, of course, vary according to the individual's performance capability. While an athlete may want to excel in a sport, a senior will be looking to be competent in the activities of daily life Both will use the same system while taking a different route.

True fitness is geared to the level one is capable of achieving in all eight areas. If five areas are superior, but three are deficient, these weak areas will affect the overall fitness picture. Maki Performance Training is a total package designed to conquer your deficiencies and guide you to the level of fitness you desire.