How can you use FMS to assess movement patterns in yoga participants?

The Functional Movement Screen is a very useful 10 minute assessment that allows us to identify strengths and weaknesses in the athlete’s movement. This allows for adjustments to account for weaknesses, and gives the green light to areas the individual is free to train without worry. This assessment is not diagnostic, but it does make patterns and limitations known. Through FMS you will be assigned corrective exercises to strengthen any weak movement patterns to a point where the individual is able to practice with load without fear of injury. The goal is to safely progress an individual to a higher level of performance. I love to use this principles in yoga to asses movement, flexibility, strength, and balance.

Functional Movement Systems a company is very useful because it is simple & quick test it measures several fundamental movement patterns.specially shoulder mobility ,deep quads,lunges ,leg raise, trunk stability & core strength. Each movement is scored zero to three based on the quality & range of motion.It gives guide lines to score & we can identify movement & limitations & risk of injuries.Total score help us to understand the risk factor.

Functional Movement Systems, or FMS. The FMS is a simple and quick test that measures seven fundamental movement patterns: deep squat, hurdle step, in-line lunge, shoulder mobility, active straight leg raise, trunk stability push-up, and rotary stability. Each movement is scored from zero to three, based on the quality and range of motion. The total score is then used to identify movement limitations, asymmetries, and risk factors for injury.

Functional Movement Screen (FMS) can be a valuable tool for assessing movement patterns in yoga participants to identify any asymmetries, limitations, or dysfunctions that may affect their practice. Pre-Screening Assessment: Before participants begin their yoga practice, conduct a pre-screening assessment using the FMS protocol. This may include various movement patterns such as squatting, lunging, bending, twisting, and reaching. Identifying Movement Dysfunctions: During the assessment, observe for any movement dysfunctions or compensations, such as asymmetrical movement, limited range of motion, instability, or poor alignment. These dysfunctions may indicate underlying issues that could affect the participant's practice.

This form of assessment is not for yoga therapy you measure ROM without having to resort to squats and active straight leg raises - meeting the client where they are currently at does not involve deep this type of assessment

Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is an invaluable tool in yoga, systematically assessing movement patterns for improvement or modification. It targets flexibility, strength, balance, and mobility, aiding in personalized practice adjustments. FMS sets realistic goals, monitors progress, and prevents injuries by pinpointing limitations or asymmetries. Whether for personal growth or guiding clients, its integration enhances yoga's effectiveness, fostering safer and more fulfilling experiences.

In traditional Hatha Yoga, participants assess movement patterns using the concept of Stiram and Sukham, which means finding a balance between steadiness and ease in each posture. Unlike FMS, which relies on standardized tests, Yoga emphasizes individualized exploration of movement based on personal experience and body awareness. Yoga empowers individuals to experience body awareness, allowing them to intuitively find their own balance within each posture.

To implement FMS for yoga, you require access to the FMS kit comprising a measuring device, a hurdle, and a dowel. Familiarity with the FMS scoring criteria is essential, obtainable from the FMS website or through a certified FMS professional. Conducting the assessment involves following instructions and recording scores on yourself or clients. Utilize these results to tailor yoga practice or teaching methods effectively.

FMS outcomes offer valuable insights into movement quality and areas requiring enhancement. A total score of 14 or lower typically indicates a heightened injury risk, prompting corrective exercises. A zero score on any movement indicates pain, warranting medical attention. A score of one denotes a significant limitation, necessitating modification or regression, while a score of two implies a minor limitation, requiring improvement or progression. Lastly, a score of three signifies good movement quality, necessitating maintenance.

If you have a low score on the deep squat, prioritize enhancing ankle, hip, and thoracic mobility. Steer clear of poses demanding extensive squatting. Likewise, for low shoulder mobility scores, concentrate on bolstering scapular stability, rotator cuff strength, and shoulder range of motion. Avoid poses necessitating significant overhead or behind-the-back movements. Furthermore, if the active straight leg raise score is low, emphasize improving hamstring flexibility, core stability, and pelvic alignment. Refrain from poses involving substantial forward bending or leg lifting.

One more addition I found helpful: Especially when you practice yin yoga you mainly focus on deep stretching for longer times. When you combine your practice with FMS your muscles will get stronger and with that you must probably can prevent yoga related injuries. When muscles get stronger they will support every ligament and tendons in the body and thats a key to stay away from asana related injuries.

Another aspect to consider is the individuality of yoga practitioners. While FMS provides a standardized framework for assessing movement patterns, each person's body is unique, with its own history of injuries, strengths, and limitations. Therefore, it's crucial to approach FMS results with a personalized perspective, taking into account factors such as previous injuries, anatomical variations, and personal goals. Additionally, fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment within yoga communities encourages practitioners to honor their bodies' needs and limitations, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-awareness.

While FMS is primarily used in sports performance settings, its application in yoga os less common, but not unheard of. However, it's essential to recognize that yoga traditionally emphasizes mindful movement, breath awareness, and individualized practice rather then standard movement assessments like FMS. Therefore, while FMS can offer vsluable insights into movement quality and potential asymmetries, it may not align perfectly with the holistic principles of yoga. Instead, yoga instructors often use observation, verbal cues, hands-on adjustments, and modifications to address participants' needs and ensure safe and effective practice.