Recently I completed a continuing education course regarding the Functional Movement System and the Functional Movement Screen. The system and the screen were developed by Dr. Gray Cook and Dr. Lee Burton with the idea of creating a research-proven, functional-based screen (not evaluation) to “document movement patterns that are key to normal function” that will allow us as exercise professionals to identify functional limitations, asymmetry, and dysfunction.
Based on your FMS movement pattern score, I can identify your particular areas of concern that are probably inhibiting your ability to maximize the effects of your training program. Following the identification of your limitations, I can then implement corrective based exercises that will restore the biomechanics required to perform the functional movement correctly and therefore enhance the effectiveness of your fitness program.
The system boasts benefits including:
Communication – The FMS utilizes simple language, making it easy for individuals, exercise professionals, and physicians to communicate clearly about progress and treatment.
Evaluation – The screen effortlessly identifies asymmetries and limitations, diminishing the need for extensive testing and analysis.
Standardization – The FMS creates a functional baseline to mark progress and provides a means to measure performance.
Safety – The FMS quickly identifies dangerous movement patterns so that they can be addressed. It also indicates an individual’s readiness to perform exercise so that realistic goals can be set and achieved.
Corrective Strategies – The FMS can be applied at any fitness level, simplifying corrective strategies of a wide array of movement issues. It identifies specific exercises based on individual FMS scores to instantly create customized treatment plans.
I am currently reviewing the information I was provided on this course, and will soon be taking the exam to become a certified FMS member. Following the completion of the exam, I will be purchasing the system to start implementing this screen with my patients/clients of all ability levels to determine the need for further intervention.
References: http://www.functionalmovement.com/fms
Dustin Szenderski