Metabolic Enhancement Training, which is what MET stands for, is strength and/or conditioning exercises performed with the intention of increasing the capacity and efficiency of the energy pathways to store and deliver energy for activity. Metabolic Enhancement Training (MET) consists of functional movements and traditional movements, as well as any exercise that gets the job done in sequences or Circuits to stimulate metabolism. MET uses integrated movements from all sports training that involve acceleration, stabilization and deceleration and improve movement ability, core strength and neuromuscular efficiency. It comes from everywhere – from the schoolyard play of children to advanced biomechanics.

The human body is an incredible machine that was designed to move in multiple planes of motion and use multiple muscle groups at the same time. Our bodies are not restricted to moving on one plane of motion (i.e. weight machines), therefore, why would we solely train our bodies to move on one plane of motion? Single plane motion training (isolated muscle training for isolated muscle strength and growth) can also be incorporated WITH MET – its called HYBRID.

All sports training have advantages and disadvantages. Every single paradigm from Yoga to Pilates to Plyometrics, and especially bodybuilding training. MET takes advantage of all of them for specific reasons. What is "Hybrid" depends on the goals of your training. Whether you want bigger muscles, or to just get in good physical shape, or you need to be a better linebacker, or faster hockey player, MET, because it takes advantage of ALL training modalities creates a "Hybrid System" based on the movement model for your particular sport or personal goals.

WHAT IS METABOLIC ABOUT IT?

MET involves movements in multiple ranges and planes of motion which adequately taxes both the body's musculature and cardiovascular system. MET movements are performed in an interval training format will improve the energy systems which are responsible for activity.

WHAT ARE THE ENERGY SUBSTRATES USED TO PERFORM THE WORKLOADS?

MET is predominately anaerobic, which consists of the phosphagen system (instant energy source) and the glycolysis system (lactic acid). All three energy systems are used at any time, however the energy system, which is primarily used during that time, is determined by the intensity and duration of the MET protocol prescribed.

WHY IS THIS MORE EFFICIENT THAN 'STANDARD' TRAINING, AND WILL IT ALWAYS BE MORE EFFICIENT?

MET is based on the human movement model of pushing, pulling, rotation, moving the Centre of Mass, and One Legged Stances or transitions. Therefore applicable movements and exercises take advantage of the best from all sports training, from Yoga to Plyometrics, to agility drills, Olympic lifts, Bodybuilding, for specific purposes and/or goals. It is more efficient than ‘standard’ or traditional resistance training because research clearly shows that lack of neuro muscular co-ordination results in faulty recruitment patterns. This can occur also from long term single plane, stabilized range of motion training, as in traditional bodybuilding or resistance training exercises and is exactly what leads to this neuro muscular confusion. Since fiber recruitment is most important for any kind of results, even hypertrophy, and since long term single joint stabilized training can disrupt fiber recruitment and neuro muscular efficiency then it makes good sense to have training that focuses on using muscles in coordinated movements in line and in conjunction with the human movement model.

As with any training protocol, depending on your goals, programs should be followed for the amount of time prescribed, followed by a rest period and then a training format change. This is done so that the body doesn’t ‘get comfortable’. Change is always necessary to ensure progression in athletic performance. The format in which MET can be prescribed is limitless.

WHAT PHYSIOLOGICAL PROCESSES ARE TAKING PLACE THAT ALLOW FOR THE PHYSICAL CHANGES?