Strength and functional conditioning training: analyzing practitioners' perceptions

Introduction: Currently, both recreational participants and athletes are required to maintain fitness levels that enable them to endure the specific physical demands of their activities for longer periods. At the same time, they must be able to perform high-level technical movements during various sports activities, which are carefully planned to improve physical condition, well-being, and quality of life. Objective: This study aims to analyze participants' perceptions regarding the motivations that lead them to either engage in or avoid strength and functional conditioning training. Methodology: The study group consisted of 189 participants from strength and/or functional training facilities (boxes), spread across three municipalities in the district of Viseu. QMAD and IMAAD surveys were adapted for this application’s context, adding information to the four dimensions of the Exercise Motivation Inventory (EMI). Descriptive and inferential data analyses were performed using version 29 of SPSS software. Results: The motivations driving or limiting practice result from a complex interaction between personal, social, and environmental factors. Understanding the motivations or barriers associated with practice is essential for developing strategies that promote adherence and continuity, creating more stimulating learning environments, and better adapting training methodologies to participants' preferences and needs. Conclusions: Functional training is a fundamental approach to improving physical performance compared to traditional methods, as it confirms a substantial increase in physical capacity indices.