The Importance of Movement Screening for New Clients
2 min read
Introduction to Movement Screening
When you start a new fitness journey, it's essential to understand how your body moves and functions. Every new client of mine will go through a movement screen and perform a series of basic exercises. This initial assessment allows me to observe your mobility and body function to create a personalized and effective fitness plan.
Key Movements: Squat, Toe Touch, and Shoulder Mobility
During the movement screen, I pay close attention to several key movements: the squat, toe touch, and shoulder mobility patterns. These movements give me valuable insights into your overall mobility and potential areas that may need improvement.
For example, if a client is unable to touch their toes, it wouldn't make sense to have them deadlifting heavy weight off the floor. Loading a movement with limited mobility can lead to injury and does not promote functional strength. Similarly, improper squat and shoulder movement patterns need to be addressed before adding weight to these exercises.
Restoring Mobility and Function
It's crucial to restore mobility and function before loading joints and muscles with heavy weights. By identifying and addressing mobility limitations early on, we can create a safer and more effective training program. Clients will be given regressions, stretches, and corrective exercises to work towards better mobility. This process helps in building a solid foundation, ensuring that you perform exercises with proper form and reduced risk of injury.
Personalized Corrective Exercises
Each client is unique, and so are their mobility needs. Based on the initial movement screen, I provide personalized corrective exercises tailored to your specific limitations. These exercises could include targeted stretches, mobility drills, and strength-building activities designed to enhance your movement patterns gradually.
By focusing on these foundational aspects first, we can ensure that you progress safely and effectively towards your fitness goals. Remember, the goal is to move better, feel better, and, ultimately, perform better.
Conclusion
Movement screening is a vital step in any fitness journey. It allows us to understand your body's current state and create a plan that addresses any limitations. By focusing on improving mobility and function first, we set the stage for safe and effective strength training. So, if you're starting your fitness journey, remember that it all begins with understanding how your body moves.
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