Movement Screening: FMS and Beyond

Movement screens identify mobility, stability and asymmetry deficits to guide programming and reduce injury risk.

Key takeaways

FMS = 7 movements scored 0–3, sum ≤14 flagged as elevated risk
Asymmetry >1 point side-to-side warrants attention
Re-test every 6–12 weeks
Refer out for any pain provoked during screening

Definition

Movement screening assesses fundamental movement quality, asymmetries and joint range to inform programming and flag potential injury risks. The most widely used screens are the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA).

How coaches use movement screens

Use scores to prioritise corrective work, programme around significant asymmetries (>1 point side-to-side on FMS), and re-test every 6–12 weeks to monitor change.

Movement screens are screening tools, not diagnostic — refer to a physio for any pain provoked during a screen.