What is the purpose of a functional movement screening (FMS)?

The purpose of a functional movement screening (FMS) is to assess movement patterns and potential injuries. The FMS is designed to identify limitations and asymmetries in movement that could lead to injuries during physical activity. By analyzing how an individual moves, practitioners can develop tailored interventions aimed at improving movement quality, enhancing overall performance, and preventing injury.

By focusing on movement patterns, the FMS helps to pinpoint specific areas of concern, such as imbalances in strength or flexibility that might be overlooked in traditional assessments. This proactive approach allows health and fitness professionals to create targeted exercise programs that address identified weaknesses and optimize functional movement, making it vital for injury prevention and performance enhancement.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of fitness. Enhancing cardiovascular endurance, identifying flexibility and strength, and evaluating body composition do not directly relate to the FMS's primary goal of assessing movement quality and injury risk.