Could FMS Be the Game-Changer in Your Running Journey?

Imagine you’re just starting your journey as a road runner or trying to improve your performance. Have you ever heard of FMS?

It stands for Functional Movement Screen, and it can truly make a difference in your running. Let me explain a bit about what it is and how it can be useful, no matter your experience level.

What is FMS?

FMS (Functional Movement Screen) is an assessment based on seven fundamental movement patterns, like squats and lunges, to identify imbalances or limitations in your body. Essentially, it’s a “check-up” of how your body moves.

Through this screening, you can uncover areas where your body may be weak or tight, helping you prevent potential injuries. After the assessment, you can follow a specific plan of exercises to address those weaknesses and improve your mobility.

Why Is It Important for Runners?

For Beginners:

If you're just starting out with running, FMS helps you build a solid foundation. Many beginners get excited and start running without proper preparation, which often leads to injuries. FMS helps identify issues like lack of flexibility or muscle weakness early on, allowing you to run more safely and efficiently.

For Intermediate Runners:

If you've been running for a while and want to improve your pace or increase your distance, FMS is perfect for you. It can show you where you might be wasting energy due to inefficient movement patterns or imbalances. Working on these areas allows you to run more efficiently—using less energy and building endurance.

For Advanced Runners:

Even experienced runners can benefit from FMS. Small imbalances can still lead to injuries. FMS helps you refine your technique, reduce injury risk, and keep training at your best level.

Benefits of FMS for Race Preparation and When to Do it

Injury Prevention:

FMS’s biggest benefit is injury prevention. By identifying and correcting weaknesses and imbalances, you can avoid injuries that might disrupt your training routine. That’s key to staying consistent.

Performance Improvement:

By fixing poor movement patterns, FMS helps your body become more efficient. This means you can run faster and longer while using less energy. Better mobility and stability also support a more effective running technique.

Personalized Training Plan:

FMS results allow you to tailor your training plan to your specific needs, including mobility, stability, and strength exercises that directly target the areas that need improvement.

When Should You Do an FMS Assessment:

Ideally, before starting a new training cycle or when you first take up running. However, it’s also useful to do it periodically—especially after a race season or before ramping up your training for an upcoming race. It ensures you're always training on a solid foundation.

Conclusion

FMS is a powerful tool for all runners.

It helps you understand how your body moves and where there’s room for improvement. Including FMS in your routine will not only boost your performance but also protect you from injuries—allowing you to pursue your running goals with safety and confidence.

Next time you think about improving your running, consider starting with FMS.

A warm hug from your Coach!