How can you prepare clients for the Functional Movement Screen test?

2 Demonstrate the movements

The FMS test consists of seven movements: deep squat, hurdle step, inline lunge, shoulder mobility, active straight leg raise, trunk stability push-up, and rotary stability. You should demonstrate each movement to your clients and explain the criteria for scoring. You should also point out the common errors and compensations that may lower their score or cause pain. For example, you should show them how to keep their spine neutral, their hips level, their knees aligned, and their feet flat during the movements.

3 Provide feedback and corrections

As your clients perform the FMS test, you should observe them carefully and provide feedback and corrections as needed. You should use verbal cues, visual aids, or tactile guidance to help them achieve the proper form and alignment. You should also record their score for each movement and note any pain or discomfort they may experience. You should avoid coaching them to improve their score during the test, as this may mask their true movement quality and impair the validity of the results.

4 Discuss the results and recommendations

After completing the FMS test, you should discuss the results and recommendations with your clients. You should explain what their score means, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and what areas they need to work on. You should also provide them with a customized corrective exercise program based on their score and goals. The corrective exercise program should include mobility, stability, and strength exercises that target their specific movement dysfunctions and improve their FMS score.

5 Monitor progress and retest

The FMS test is not a one-time assessment, but a dynamic and ongoing process. You should monitor your clients' progress and retest them periodically to evaluate their improvement and adjust their corrective exercise program accordingly. You should also use the FMS test as a baseline and a benchmark to measure their functional performance and readiness for more advanced training. The FMS test can help you design and deliver more effective and safe functional training programs for your clients.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?