The OPT (Optimal Performance Training) Model is "built on a foundation of principles that progressively and systematically allows any client to achieve optimal levels of physiologic, physical, and performance adaptations (2012:9)."
Accordingly, from the textbook "NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training" the list includes the physiological, physical, and performance benefits.
Physiological Benefits: 1) Improves cardiorespiratory efficiency. 2) Enhances beneficial endocrine and serum lipid adaptations. 3) Increases metabolism. 4) Increases tissue tensile strength aka: tendons, ligaments, muscles. 5) Increases bone density.
Physical Benefits: 1) Decreases body fat. 2) Increases lean body mass.
Performance Benefits: 1) Strength. 2) Power. 3) Endurance. 4) Flexibility. 5) Speed. 6) Agility. 7) Balance.
Furthermore, the OPT Model has five phases of training:
-- Phase 1: stabilization/endurance. This phase emphasizes on the importance of coordination. The goals within this phase are to improve muscular endurance, enhance joint stability, increase flexibility, improve posture.-- Phase 2: strength/endurance. In Phase 2, the goals are: to improve stabilization endurance, enhance joint stabilization, and increase lean body mass.
-- Phase 3: hypertrophy. Phase 3 goals are typically designed for individuals who would like maximal muscle growth and this phase would be used for individuals in bodybuilding.
-- Phase 4: Maximal Strength. In Phase 4, the goal is for the individual to be able to lift heavy loads and improve peak performance.
-- Phase 5: Power. To get to this level, the individual MUST complete the phases of stabilization and strength levels. Speed and power are heavily focused on within this level.
Therefore, the OPT Model is designed for the achievement of the individual's fitness goals while correcting their muscle imbalances, stabilizing joints, while gaining proper neuromuscular functioning. In addition, the benefits of utilizing the OPT Model significantly decrease the chance for injury. You have to crawl before you can walk, so that you don't mess up your muscles and your body, to achieve the body you want. That is why it is severely important to use a personal trainer that uses the NASM guidelines to design a program that is right for you!
So, go out there & go GET IT. Call us at 281-984-7446 or email: katie@myfitjob.com if you want to know more!