What are the best modifications to the FMS for pregnant clients?

1 Why modify the FMS for pregnant clients?

Pregnancy can affect the FMS results in several ways. First, the growing belly can interfere with some of the movements, such as the deep squat or the trunk stability push-up. Second, the hormonal changes can increase joint laxity and affect stability and balance. Third, the increased weight and blood volume can affect cardiovascular and respiratory function and fatigue levels. Fourth, the shifting center of gravity can alter posture and alignment and increase the risk of falls or injuries. Therefore, modifying the FMS for pregnant clients can help you avoid false positives or negatives, prevent unnecessary stress or discomfort, and provide more accurate and relevant feedback.

2 How to modify the FMS for pregnant clients?

Modifications to the FMS for pregnant clients depend on the stage of pregnancy, the individual's fitness level and medical history, and the professional's judgment and experience. Generally speaking, a wider stance and lower box should be used for the deep squat to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor and abdominal wall. A half-kneeling position is better than a hurdle step to avoid crossing the midline of the body and improve stability and balance. A dowel or band can provide more feedback and support for alignment and posture, while a modified push-up position should be used instead of a trunk stability push-up to avoid excessive spinal extension or abdominal separation. Additionally, a shorter distance and lower hurdle should be used for shoulder mobility to accommodate increased chest size, while a foam roller or pillow should be placed under the head during active straight leg raise to reduce tension in the neck and lower back. Finally, a foam pad or mat can be placed under the knees for rotary stability to reduce friction and discomfort on the knees.

3 How to score the modified FMS for pregnant clients?

The scoring system for the modified FMS for pregnant clients is similar to the original one, but with some adjustments. A scale of 0 to 3 can be used for each exercise, where 0 indicates pain, 1 means the individual is unable to perform, 2 means partially able to perform, and 3 means fully able to perform. It is important to consider the stage of pregnancy when scoring as scores may vary as the body adapts. Additionally, scores should be compared with an individual's baseline and not a normative population. Lastly, scores may not capture all nuances and details of the movement, so it is important to supplement scores with observations and comments and provide specific and constructive feedback.

4 How to use the modified FMS for pregnant clients?

The modified FMS for pregnant clients can be a useful tool to monitor and improve their movement health and function. You can use it to screen for any movement dysfunctions or pain that may require medical attention or referral, assess the strengths and weaknesses of the movement patterns, and identify any asymmetries or compensations. Additionally, it can help design individualized exercise programs that address the movement issues and the pregnancy-related needs, as well as evaluate the progress and outcomes of the exercise programs to make any necessary adjustments or modifications. Ultimately, it can help educate and empower the clients to move better and feel better during and after pregnancy.

5 What are the benefits of the modified FMS for pregnant clients?

The modified FMS for pregnant clients can offer a variety of advantages, such as enhancing safety and comfort, improving movement quality and efficiency, increasing confidence and motivation, strengthening the relationship between clients and trainers, and differentiating the trainers and their services. These benefits can help reduce the risk of injury or complications, optimize performance and function, encourage clients to stay active and healthy, foster trust and rapport, and demonstrate competence and professionalism.