How is Functional Movement Different?
In healthcare, performance training, and rehabilitation, Functional Movement Systems (FMS) stands out as a unique and transformative approach. Unlike traditional methods that focus on isolated symptoms or singular body parts, FMS evaluates movement as a holistic, interconnected system. By emphasizing fundamental movement patterns and identifying dysfunctions early, FMS bridges the gap between healthcare, fitness, and rehabilitation, ensuring a more integrated and proactive approach to human performance.
The Core Philosophy of Functional Movement Systems
Functional Movement Systems is built on the principle that how we move matters. The body is designed to operate as a unified system, with each part working in harmony. When movement dysfunctions occur—such as restricted mobility, imbalances, or compensatory patterns—they often go unnoticed until pain or injury develops.
FMS differs from traditional approaches in its focus on:
Assessment Before Intervention: FMS starts with a structured assessment to identify weaknesses or imbalances, rather than jumping straight to treatment or training.
Proactive Problem-Solving: It emphasizes addressing potential issues before they become injuries, promoting longevity and resilience.
Movement Quality Over Quantity: The system prioritizes efficient, pain-free movement over merely increasing strength, speed, or endurance.
Key Differences Between FMS and Traditional Approaches
Holistic Movement Screening
Traditional Methods: Typically focus on symptoms or isolated joints and muscles. For example, a patient with knee pain might receive treatment targeting only the knee.
FMS: Evaluates the entire body through functional movement patterns such as squatting, lunging, or rotating. This broader perspective often uncovers the root cause of issues—such as poor hip mobility or weak core stability—that may be affecting the knee.
Standardized Scoring System
FMS uses a scoring system to objectively assess movement quality. This allows practitioners to track progress over time, compare results, and create tailored intervention plans. Traditional methods often lack a standardized assessment, making it harder to measure improvement or pinpoint dysfunctions. Focus on Prevention, Not Just Rehabilitation.
Traditional Approaches: Tend to focus on treating injuries or improving performance in already healthy individuals.
FMS: Aims to prevent injuries and dysfunctions before they occur. By identifying and correcting movement flaws early, FMS reduces the risk of injury during daily activities, sports, or exercise.
Integrated Approach to Performance and Rehabilitation
In traditional healthcare or training, performance improvement and injury rehabilitation are often seen as separate areas.
FMS integrates the two, using the same movement-based principles to guide both rehabilitation and performance training. This ensures that an athlete recovering from an injury, for instance, is also building the foundation for stronger, more efficient performance.
Bridging the Gap Between Disciplines
Traditional Systems: Often create silos between healthcare providers, trainers, and physical therapists.
FMS: Facilitates collaboration by providing a common language and framework for assessing and addressing movement. Whether in a clinical or athletic setting, FMS unites professionals around a shared goal: optimal, pain-free movement.
How FMS Benefits Healthcare, Performance, and Rehabilitation
In Healthcare
Early Detection of Dysfunction: Identifies movement issues before they cause pain or injury.
Improved Outcomes: Enhances the effectiveness of treatment by addressing root causes.
Patient Education: Empowers patients to understand their movement patterns and take an active role in their recovery.
In Performance
Enhanced Efficiency: Athletes can maximize their potential by eliminating inefficient movement patterns.
Reduced Risk of Injury: By addressing asymmetries and imbalances, FMS ensures safer training and competition.
Individualized Training: Coaches can use FMS results to design personalized programs that target specific needs.
In Rehabilitation
Comprehensive Recovery: Rather than treating only the injured area, FMS ensures the entire body is functioning optimally.
Transition to Performance: FMS bridges the gap between rehabilitation and return-to-play, ensuring athletes are ready for the demands of their sport.
Long-Term Resilience: Helps patients build a foundation of healthy movement to prevent future injuries.
Why FMS is the Future of Movement-Based Care
Functional Movement Systems redefines how we approach human performance and rehabilitation by focusing on the big picture. It shifts the narrative from reactive care—waiting for injuries or dysfunctions to appear—to proactive, preventative care that builds strength, efficiency, and resilience.
By prioritizing movement quality and integrating healthcare, performance, and rehabilitation, FMS provides a roadmap for sustainable health and peak performance. As more practitioners and organizations adopt this approach, we can expect to see stronger athletes, healthier individuals, and fewer injuries.
Whether you’re an athlete, patient, or healthcare provider, Functional Movement Systems offers a unique and effective way to unlock your body’s full potential. It’s more than a system—it’s a philosophy for better movement and better living.
