FMS stands for Functional Movement Screen. FMS is a ranking and grading system that documents movement patterns that are key to normal function by putting individuals through a series of movements, which include:
1. Deep squat
2. Hurdle step
3. Inline Lunge
4. Shoulder Mobility
5. Active Straight-leg Raise
6. Trunk Stability push-up
7. Rotary stability
Each of these seven movements helps to identify functional limitations and asymmetries that an individual may have. These limitations and asymmetries are issues that can reduce the effects of strength training and physical conditioning and distort body awareness.
It is important for and athlete to do the Functional Movement Screen before trying to do any load bearing activity in the weight room. If the athlete is unable to perform any of the 7 movements of the FMS they need to take steps to strengthen the weaknesses that were shown while performing the FMS test before progressing to a weight bearing activities such as a squat.