The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a powerful tool that has been widely used to identify dysfunctional movements and asymmetries in adults. However, its application in children and adolescents is gaining traction as a means to enhance physical literacy and motor competence. This blog delves into the insights from the research article "Assessment of Dysfunctional Movements and Asymmetries in Children and Adolescents Using the Functional Movement Screen—A Narrative Review" and explores how practitioners can leverage these findings to improve their skills and encourage further research.
The Importance of FMS in Youth
The FMS evaluates seven fundamental movement patterns that assess mobility, stability, balance, and neuromuscular control. These patterns include deep squat, hurdle step, in-line lunge, shoulder mobility test, active straight-leg raise, trunk stability push-up, and rotary stability test. For children and adolescents, mastering these movements is crucial as they form the foundation for more complex motor tasks and sports activities.
With declining physical activity levels and rising obesity rates among youth, integrating FMS into physical education programs can help identify movement deficiencies early. This proactive approach not only aids in injury prevention but also promotes lifelong physical activity by enhancing motor competence.
Implementing FMS in Schools
Schools play a pivotal role in shaping children's physical activity habits. By incorporating FMS into physical education curricula, educators can assess students' movement quality and tailor interventions to address specific deficits. This approach fosters an inclusive environment where all students can improve their motor skills regardless of their initial fitness levels.
- Warm-Up Routines: Replace traditional warm-ups with dynamic core exercises to enhance trunk muscular endurance and flexibility.
- Functional Training: Implement exercises focusing on mobility, stability, and motor control to reduce dysfunctional scores and asymmetries.
The Role of Practitioners
For practitioners working with youth athletes or within educational settings, understanding the nuances of FMS is essential. Here are some practical steps to consider:
- Training: Obtain certification in FMS administration to ensure reliable assessments.
- Data Analysis: Use sub-scores (movement, mobility, stabilization) for a comprehensive analysis of each child's strengths and weaknesses.
- Avoid Bias: Ensure participants are unaware of grading criteria during assessments to maintain objectivity.
The Need for Further Research
The current body of research highlights several areas where further investigation is needed:
- Diverse Populations: Conduct studies across various demographics to establish normative data for different age groups and sexes.
- Sustained Impact: Explore long-term effects of FMS-based interventions on youth physical activity levels and injury rates.
A Call to Action
The integration of FMS into youth programs offers a promising avenue for enhancing physical literacy and reducing injury risks. Practitioners are encouraged to delve deeper into the existing literature and contribute to future research efforts. By doing so, we can collectively foster a healthier generation equipped with the skills necessary for an active lifestyle.
