Domande frequenti - Functional Training

• What is functional training and what is it for?
  Functional training is a training method that develops overall motor skills rather than isolating individual muscle groups. It works on complete kinetic chains, engaging the neuromuscular, joint and proprioceptive systems. The aim is to improve movements that are applicable to everyday life and sporting activities: pushing, pulling, squatting, hinging, carrying and rotating. It is useful for both athletic preparation and functional rehabilitation.
• What equipment do you need to set up a functional training area in a gym?
  A professional functional training area requires specialist flooring (EcoGym or tatami), kettlebells of various weights, plyoboxes for plyometric training, a set of proprioceptive and mobility equipment, ropes and small training aids. The minimum training area is 20–25 m². In commercial gyms, this is complemented by racks and suspension training equipment to make the most of bodyweight training.
• What is the difference between a competition kettlebell and an adjustable kettlebell?
  The kettlebell maintains the same external dimensions regardless of its weight (4–48 kg), a requirement of Girevoy Sport protocols to ensure that the swing or snatch technique is not compromised. The adjustable kettlebell allows the load to be adjusted using internal weight plates: a cost-effective solution for home gyms and personal training studios where space is limited.
• What type of flooring should you choose for a functional area?
  For areas used for plyometric jumps and equipment drops, 20–40 mm rubber is required (Tatami Floor 4 cm or EcoGym Floor). For mobility and stretching areas, and for use with small equipment, a thickness of 5–10 mm is sufficient (EcoGym 5 mm or Puzzle 1 cm). The interlocking tiles make installation easier in domestic settings or on uneven surfaces, whilst straight-edged slabs are the standard choice for continuous installation in gyms.
• Are Soft and Foam plyoboxes as safe as the wooden ones?
  High-density foam plyoboxes such as the Soft Plyobox 3-in-1 and Foam Plyobox 3-in-1 reduce the risk of shin injuries in the event of failed box jumps, whilst maintaining sufficient stability for jumps of up to 75 cm. The 3-in-1 design offers three heights in a single fold-out unit. They are the most popular choice in physiotherapy practices and for working with beginners; wooden boxes remain common in CrossFit settings with experienced athletes.
• What does a proprioceptive kit contain?
  A typical Proprioception Kit includes unstable boards, proprioceptive discs, sensory balls and small tools for foot exercises. It is used for post-injury rehabilitation, the prevention of ankle sprains and the development of fine motor control. In athletic training programmes, it precedes ballistic exercises and is incorporated into specific warm-ups prior to high-load sessions.
• Is functional training suitable for beginners?
  Yes, but with supervised technical progression. Movements such as the swing, TGU and snatch require adequate joint mobility and a gradual technical learning of the motor pattern. For a beginner, you start with essential kits (Essential Kit, Starter Kit) using light weights, working on squat patterns, hip hinging and core stability before introducing complex ballistic or unilateral exercises.
• What is TGU and which piece of equipment is used to perform it?
  The Turkish Get Up (TGU) is a compound movement that takes the athlete from a supine position to a standing position whilst holding a load above the head. It is typically performed with a kettlebell and trains shoulder stability, thoracic mobility, core control and coordination. It is one of the key tests in the StrongFirst protocols. It requires a technical mat to protect both the athlete and the floor beneath them in the event of losing control of the kettlebell.
• How much space do you need for a functional home gym?
  For a functional home gym, you only need 6–9 m² of clear floor space with a minimum ceiling height of 2.3 m if you’re doing swings and snatches. The basic set includes a pair of kettlebells, a plyobox, 1–2 cm modular interlocking flooring and an accessories kit. Kits such as the Traveller Kit or Functional Home Kit are designed for these settings, with a compact footprint and the option of wall-mounted storage.
• Does Sidea offer consultancy on setting up a functional area?
  Yes. The Gym Design Sidea service provides customised 3D renderings, calculations of training areas, and the layout of racks and functional zones based on user flow. Technical advice is provided directly by the sales department and involves fitness trainers who act as points of contact for selecting equipment. This service is useful for commercial gyms, CrossFit boxes, personal training studios, and school or MEPA projects.
• What instalment payment options are available?
  Sidea offers a range of instalment payment options to make it easier to purchase professional equipment. Please see the dedicated page: Sidea Payment Options.
• I’m a fitness professional – can I get special rates?
  If you work in the fitness or sports sector, register on the website as a Professional or as an ASD to gain access to the price list reserved for industry professionals. Pro registration allows you to view exclusive discounts and special terms across the entire Sidea catalogue.
• Is Sidea listed on the MEPA for public sector procurement?
  Yes, Sidea is an authorised supplier on the MEPA (Public Administration Electronic Marketplace). Public bodies, schools, universities, local authorities and public sports facilities can purchase Sidea equipment via the Acquisti in Rete PA platform. For information on product codes and direct MEPA orders, please contact Sidea customer service.
• What are Sidea’s returns and warranty terms?
  Sidea guarantees the right to cancel within 14 days of delivery for all online purchases, in accordance with current legislation. Products must be returned undamaged and in their original packaging. For full details on returns, refunds and the warranty, please see the Terms and Conditions of Sale page.
• Why choose Sidea equipment?
  Sidea has been designing and distributing professional fitness equipment since 1999: over 25 years’ experience serving gyms, sports coaches, CrossFit boxes, personal training studios and enthusiasts of advanced home fitness. Official distributor for StrongFirst and Luxiaojun, exhibiting at the FIBO international trade fair and technical sponsor of the Summit of Strength. Every product is developed with a focus on durability, functionality and suitability for real-world use. The Gym Design service offers bespoke design with 3D renderings. A warehouse covering over 4,000 m² in Gambettola (FC) ensures rapid order fulfilment, direct technical advice and a special price list for professionals and amateur sports clubs (ASD).