The post is specifically on correcting weaknesses. Leg extensions verboten? That's a blatantly wrong statement because you're using it _absolutely_. Maybe for max loading, but nobody is recommending 1rm leg extensions. Specifically here it's being used to strengthen the VMO, so it would be in a moderate loading range. Without looking it up, can you think of another direct way to improve patellar tracking issues due to overdeveloped vastus lateralis?
Similarly, let's talk about 'functional ab muscles.' Functional is a needlessly vague term. Let's say I'm a powerlifter and I feel my core is limiting my squats. Don't tell me to squat more, because I am an advanced squatter and my core is weak despite heavy squatting, so clearly it would benefit from more direct work. How would you strengthen my abs so my squat can improve? Outside of extremists, most coaches supplement auxiliary lifts to improve weaknesses.
For what it's worth here's a video of Konstantinovs (800+lb deadlift) doing crunches, I don't think he would do that unless he found 'functional' value: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMjXVHHAJ70
I appreciate your enthusiasm but it sounds like you're very clearly a beginner and in situations like this you should keep a more open mind and avoid judging so quickly.
I think a valid definition of functional would be 'common in everyday life', and 'powerlifter trying to max his/her squat' does not qualify as a common everyday movement.
Parent might be referring to the assertion that the abs' main role is to prevent torso flexion (as opposed to cause it), which makes something like a Paloff press a more 'functional' movement.
Not necessarily. The demands of everyday life are sufficient to keep you strong enough for those activities.
Strength training helps with you meet the demands of the things that happen irregularly like moving furniture, clearing snow, having to take care of an injured spouse or parent, or even just playing the odd game of [sport-of-your-own-choosing].
It counters the atrophy associated with a sedentary lifestyle and delays the physical decay associated with old age and adds life to your years. It strengthens bones and improves body composition.
It makes everyday life easier and would be worth of billions of dollars if its benefits could be captured in a pill.
Leg extensions verboten? That's a blatantly wrong statement because you're using it _absolutely_.
You are wrong. It puts undue stress on the knees, even with low loads. I've had 3 knee operations (on one knee!) so I've been through a lot of PT. Open-loop exercises should just be avoided. Their closed-loop counterparts are better/just as good.
Uh, sure. Do leg extensions if you want. Generally they're frowned upon but like everything in exercise science there is some debate and shifting of opinions. Sort of like the notion that weak VMOs are the source of patellar pain and that targeting them leads to positive outcomes.
You sound like you want an argument. I'm not interested. I am proud to say I am a relative newcomer to proper strength training. I can say that your arguments do not agree with anything I've come across yet, but hey, if it works for you, go for it.
Crunches are overemphasized and should take a back seat to exercises which train your real core muscles. Most people don't need them. They need a stronger posterior chain, obliques(and all the little core muscles), back extensions and training on proper breathing.
Similarly, let's talk about 'functional ab muscles.' Functional is a needlessly vague term. Let's say I'm a powerlifter and I feel my core is limiting my squats. Don't tell me to squat more, because I am an advanced squatter and my core is weak despite heavy squatting, so clearly it would benefit from more direct work. How would you strengthen my abs so my squat can improve? Outside of extremists, most coaches supplement auxiliary lifts to improve weaknesses.
For what it's worth here's a video of Konstantinovs (800+lb deadlift) doing crunches, I don't think he would do that unless he found 'functional' value: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMjXVHHAJ70
I appreciate your enthusiasm but it sounds like you're very clearly a beginner and in situations like this you should keep a more open mind and avoid judging so quickly.