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Functional Movement Screen: How a FMS Could Identify Injuries Before They Happen

Have you ever had a functional movement screen?

If you haven’t, or you’re not sure what this is, it’s time to book one right away. Functional movement screenings are a standardized fitness test that can help you prevent injuries and reach a higher level of fitness.

The test assesses form on basic movements like squats, lunges, and push-ups. Although these movements are simple, they’re likely to cause injury if not performed correctly. 

Keep reading to learn more about what a functional movement screening is and why it’ll help keep your body healthy for years to come. 

What Is Functional Movement Screening? 

Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a screening process that helps identify problematic movement patterns your body does as you exercise. A screen will help identify things your body does that might cause injury in the future or reduce how efficiently you perform. 

During the test, you’ll have to do seven basic movements including a deep squat, in-line lunge, straight leg raise, hurdle step, shoulder mobility, trunk stability push-up and rotary stability. 

After the evaluation, you’re assigned and FMS score. Most FMS scores range between 13 and 15 points. Keep reading to learn why an FMS is beneficial for your body. 

Why You Need a Functional Movement Screen 

Now that you know what a functional movement screen is, you’re probably wondering if you need one or not. This test is extremely beneficial for athletes at any level. 

Here are four reasons you should get a functional movement screening: 

1. Prevent Injuries

FMS will help you understand how your body moves and your natural tendencies. This knowledge of your body will help you prevent injuries before they happen. Like we mentioned earlier, proper form is crucial on movements like squats, lunges, and push-ups. These movements are simple, but they cause the most injuries in the gym. 

2. Identify Where Pain Is Coming From

If you’re already injured, an FMS can help you identify where in your body the injury is coming from. Going through the standardized movements will help you see what triggers pain in your body so you can start the healing process. 

3. Track Your Progress 

The FMS process is a standardized screen, so it’s the same seven movements every time. Standardization is good in this case because it allows athletes to track their fitness progress. You might have had bad form on your deep squat the first time around, but you can do the test again later to see that you’ve corrected the problem. 

4. Become a Better Athlete 

An FMS will identify any weaknesses in your body and help you become a more efficient athlete. After a screen, you’ll be able to challenge your body more and lift heavier.

Book Your FMS Today

As an athlete, keeping your body healthy is something you have to work towards every day. You put your body through a lot, so you need to make sure you’re taking care of yourself. 

The expert trainers at Gym Las Vegas want you to have the best training experience possible, and that starts with a functional movement screen. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or you’re a seasoned athlete, take care of your body, and book your FMS with us today.