Movement screen

A movement screen is a short set of basic movement tests used to assess flexibility, mobility and movement competency.^{1Haff and Triplett (eds.), Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th ed., p. 277.} No consensus exists on which screen to use.^{1Haff and Triplett (eds.), Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th ed., p. 277.} The IPTA textbook describes screening as a way to establish baseline range of motion, identify movement dysfunction and judge injury risk.^{2International Personal Trainer Academy, Certified Personal Trainer Textbook, p. 161.} Trainers watch from the front, side and back for asymmetries and compensations.^{2International Personal Trainer Academy, Certified Personal Trainer Textbook, p. 161.}

The overhead squat is a common test because it checks mobility at the hips, knees, ankles, shoulders and thoracic spine in one movement.^{1Haff and Triplett (eds.), Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th ed., p. 277.}

In practice

• Choose tests that resemble the client’s training, such as squats and push-ups, so the findings apply directly.^{2International Personal Trainer Academy, Certified Personal Trainer Textbook, p. 161.}
• Combine range of motion, left-right symmetry, motor control and balance findings to build a profile for adjusting training.^{3Zatsiorsky, Kraemer and Fry, Science and Practice of Strength Training, 3rd ed., p. 225.}
• Keep assessing movement and posture as the client trains, rather than stopping after the first session.^{1Haff and Triplett (eds.), Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th ed., p. 277.}

Can movement screens predict injury?

The IPTA textbook presents movement assessments as a baseline tool for determining injury risk.^{2International Personal Trainer Academy, Certified Personal Trainer Textbook, p. 161.} The NSCA finds no clearly established link between screening results and injury.^{1Haff and Triplett (eds.), Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th ed., p. 277.} Zatsiorsky and colleagues also say direct links are hard to establish, while supporting screens as part of a broader assessment.^{3Zatsiorsky, Kraemer and Fry, Science and Practice of Strength Training, 3rd ed., p. 225.}