Our Training Methods

Training Methods at David Sisk Fitness. Proven by Science.

At David Sisk Fitness we train you using evidence-based science, not the latest fad. We use the knowledge David gained in his Master of Science in Sport (Miami University) along with the latest high level training methods. We use the Optimum Performance Training™ (OPT™) model from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (Arizona, U.S.A.) as a platform from which we have added to and fine-tuned to suit the needs of our clients. Why do we do this? Well for years, most training programmes have been based almost entirely on the experiences and goals of bodybuilders, coaches, and athletes. Scientifically unsupported training programmes are not designed to meet the needs of our increasingly de-conditioned and injury-prone society.

Read more on sedentary lifestyle and OPT

There is a new era in training  required for our ever increasing sedentary lifestyle

As society changes and as people work more and/or become more sedentary and deconditioned our bodies begin to change for the worse¹. Postural imbalances begin to take effect on the body as our knees, back, shoulders begin to ache and we become more prone to injuries from daily activities. Sitting for extended periods is the root of many problems². Our muscles literally pull the skeleton into positions that cause inflammations, pain, and worse. Over time this has a detrimental effect on our health and immune system.

Nutritional imbalances also affect our bodies as cheap highly processed food becomes more and more popular because of convenience. As we consume more, work more and become less active we are also seeing increases in adult weight and illnesses. This growing obesity problem effects everything from work absenteeism to development of cancers to increased injuries in daily activities to general health insurance costs.³

We design integrative science based programme’s that address not only people’s goals but the challenges of modern society, such as:

  • The increase in sedentary lifestyles and associated postural problems.
  • Long working hours and the health implications of this on health and absenteeism.
  • Increases in cheap and processed foods and the implications of these for long-term health and illness.
  • Separating the myths of training and nutrition and the confusion caused by these falsehoods.

References: ¹Bernaards, Claire M, Proper, Karin I, & Hildebrandt, Vincent H (2007). Physical Activity, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Body Mass Index in Relationship to Work Productivity and Sickness Absence in Computer Workers with Pre-Existing Neck and Upper Limb Symptoms. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 49(6), 633-640

²Allen, Harris, Hubbard, David & Sullivan, Sean (2005). The Burden of Pain on Employee Health and Productivity at a Major Provider of Business Services. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 47(7), 658-670.

³Wang F, McDonald T, Champagne LJ, Edington DW. Relationship of body mass index and physical activity to health care costs among employees. Journal of Occupational Medicine 2004, 428-436

What is the Optimum Performance Training (OPT TM) model?

At David Sisk Fitness we use an Integrated Fitness Training science based methodology called the Optimum Performance Training™ (OPT™) model from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (Arizona, U.S.A.). OPT TM utilises a progression from movement assessments with corrective exercise strategies, to integrated stabilisation and strength training, culminating in specific performance and power training (for athletes), whether clients are training to get stronger or to simply get more active and feel better.

Incorporating complex movement patterns, stability training and core strength and stabilisation into all training programmes, results in a diverse and engaging workout programme that produces maximum results no matter what the goal. By incorporating multiple types of training—flexibility, cardio respiratory, core, balance, reactive, speed, agility, quickness, and strength—into programming, the revolutionary and easy-to-use OPT method improves all biomotor abilities and builds high levels of functional strength, neuromuscular efficiency, and dynamic flexibility.

Both the American Council on Exercise and the National Academy of Sport Medicine (the OPT ™ model) in the US recommend an integrated training approach to fitness. We firmly believe that such an approach is best for our clients.