A New and Improved Model: Movement Continuum Theory

I have been discussing the limitations of describing or prescribing exercise as 'cardio' or 'strength training' in recent posts. In this post I will introduce Movement Continuum Theory (MCT)- a more comprehensive and helpful approach for analyzing and describing exercise or movements based on how they affect the whole body. The basis for MCT is that your performance in all movements, whether that is running, playing golf, jumping rope, push-ups, yoga, or Olympic Weightlifting, can all be described by and are affected by seven, dependent components (see above picture).

These seven components-joint mobility, joint stability, muscular coordination, technique, strength, power/efficiency, and endurance are building blocks for improving performance. Each one is dependent upon the one below it. This makes it clear that it is foolish to simply address one component with your training and ignore others. However, with the reductionistic view of exercise as either 'cardio' or 'strength training', you can see how many gym-goers fall into this trap.

In the next post of this series, I will apply the Movement Continuum Theory to some popular exercises and you will see how helpful it is to improving your performance and health.