Final answer:
The statement is true; functional training enhances the strength and function of muscles that stabilize the spine and maintain the center of gravity during movement, while also improving muscular strength and endurance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Functional training focuses on exercises that indeed improve strength and function for the muscles responsible for stabilizing the spine and center of gravity during static and dynamic movements, so the statement in the question is True. This type of training is crucial because the human body works to balance itself on two feet while walking upright, and our balance is maintained through the alternate contraction and relaxation of various muscle groups. The muscles of the vertebral column, thorax, and abdominal wall - namely the external obliques, internal obliques, transversus abdominis, and rectus abdominis - extend, flex, and stabilize the body's trunk, thereby maintaining posture.
Good posture is identified by having the center of gravity directly above the pivot point in the hips, which helps in avoiding back strain and damage to disks. Knowledge of the relationships between forces and torques is utilized by training coaches and physical therapists to treat muscles and joints effectively. Exercises designed to be carried out under water, for example, require greater forces and result in further strengthening of muscles, though they also must be done with caution to avoid damage to connective tissues. Overall, functional training enhances both muscular strength and muscular endurance, important aspects of overall fitness and bodily function.