Fifteenth International Conference on Sport & Society

Abstract

Functional Movement Screening (FMS) by Gray Cook has emerged as a pivotal tool in injury prevention for athletes. This study provides a concise overview of its significance in safeguarding the well-being of athletes, encapsulating the essence of FMS and its impact on sports safety. In the realm of athletic performance and injury prevention, FMS stands as a transformative paradigm developed by Gray Cook. FMS is a systematic and comprehensive evaluation technique that assesses an individual’s functional movement patterns. It does so by scrutinizing fundamental movements and identifying limitations or imbalances that could predispose an athlete to injuries. The primary objective is to identify and address these issues proactively to mitigate the risk of injuries before they occur. The paramount importance of FMS in the realm of athletics lies in its ability to serve as a potent predictor of potential injury risks. By pinpointing areas of concern, coaches and trainers can tailor their conditioning programs, focusing on corrective exercises and enhancing an athlete’s biomechanical foundation. In doing so, FMS empowers athletes to optimize their performance potential while minimizing the risk of debilitating injuries. FMS has fundamentally shifted the injury prevention paradigm in athletics. It promotes the idea that injury prevention is not a reactive process but a proactive one. This paradigm shift is supported by robust evidence demonstrating that athletes who undergo FMS and address identified weaknesses are less prone to injuries, experience improved athletic performance, and enjoy longevity in their careers.