What are the limitations of FMS and how can you overcome them?

1 Validity and Reliability

One of the main criticisms of FMS is that it lacks validity and reliability, meaning that it does not measure what it claims to measure and that it does not produce consistent results across different testers and settings. For example, some studies have found that FMS scores do not correlate well with actual performance or injury outcomes in various sports and populations. Moreover, different testers may score the same movement differently depending on their interpretation and criteria, leading to subjective and variable results. To overcome this limitation, you should use FMS as a complement, not a substitute, for other assessment methods that are more specific, objective, and relevant to your client's goals and needs. For instance, you can use performance tests, such as strength, power, speed, agility, endurance, or skill tests, to measure the outcomes of your functional training program. You can also use more detailed movement analysis tools, such as video feedback, joint range of motion measurements, or force plates, to identify the underlying causes of movement dysfunctions and imbalances.

3 Scoring and Interpretation

A final limitation of FMS is that it provides a limited and sometimes misleading scoring and interpretation system. FMS uses a simple 0-3 scale to rate each movement test, where 0 means pain, 1 means unable to perform, 2 means compensatory movement, and 3 means optimal movement. However, this scale does not capture the nuances and variations of movement quality and function. For example, a score of 2 may indicate a minor or major compensation, depending on the type and degree of deviation from the ideal pattern. Likewise, a score of 3 may not necessarily mean optimal movement, as it may still have room for improvement or refinement. Moreover, FMS does not provide clear and specific guidelines on how to use the scores to design and implement functional training programs. For example, it does not specify how to prioritize, progress, or regress the exercises based on the scores, or how to monitor and evaluate the changes in movement quality and function over time. To overcome this limitation, you should use FMS scores as a starting point, not an end point, for your functional training program. You should supplement the scores with your own observation, feedback, and judgment, and use them to guide, not dictate, your programming and coaching decisions. You should also use other measures and indicators, such as performance, pain, fatigue, enjoyment, and satisfaction, to assess and adjust your functional training program.

4 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?