So I had someone email a question about "The Best Assessment Tool" for testing clients. With all the information out there this blog could turn into a 1,000 page book on what assessment tool is number 1. I will do my best to keep this short, simple and informational.
There are tons of assessments out that look at our clients mechanical issues. Each one has its own grading scale and pin points on what to look for. At FLO we use the overhead squat assessment, one leg squat assessment, straight leg test, push up test, pull up test and box drop test (if you have questions on anyone of these assessments be sure to email me). There are other popular test out there but this is what we use. The question now is why do we use this and why is it better then all the other test?
In fitness it is important to know that it's not what you use but how you use it (don't get any dirty thoughts). Any assessment test is the best if you are the best at using it. Pick an assessment test that you are 100% comfortable with. I have used some of the FMS stuff but I am not 100% comfortable with it all, so I use parts of it that I can speak confidently about. You must be able to speak to your client with confidence about the results of the test. There can be no "umm, ugh, hmm, maybe, not sure". The client must feel that you know where they are lacking and that you are the person that can help them fix what is wrong.
I also believe that the assessment NEVER ENDS! What I mean by that is, every time the client walks in I am watching how they walk and how they move. I am ALWAYS assessing to see what progressions are being made and what needs to be changed. When people are being assessed they tend to be super strict with form and want to pass the test. Its like when kids in school behave super nice when the principle is around but go crazy when he/she leaves. So many times your assessment has crappy findings anyway because they know you are looking for some weakness. This is why I make it a point to never cue during the assessment. Just tell them to do what feels natural.
If I had to pick the best assessment tool, what would it be? Since I train mostly athletes, I would have to say the best tool is.............(drumroll please)............. GO TO THE GAME AND WATCH THEM PLAY!!!(On a side note, they will also know you care and they will be happy that you came out to support them) I will bet you will be surprised at how they move on the field, court, pitch. All muscular imbalances and everything you want to see will show if you watch close enough. To me, ONLY using the assessment you did in the gym is like trying to assess the strength of a Lion by watching them in the zoo. You wont be able to see anywhere near the strength they have until you watch them in the wild. Watch you clients do what they do best and you will get your assessment.
I hope I answered the question. If not feel free to email me. Also be sure to subscribe to our youtube channel for workout videos, join our facebook group and follow us on twitter. Thanks for the love and support
-FLO
There are tons of assessments out that look at our clients mechanical issues. Each one has its own grading scale and pin points on what to look for. At FLO we use the overhead squat assessment, one leg squat assessment, straight leg test, push up test, pull up test and box drop test (if you have questions on anyone of these assessments be sure to email me). There are other popular test out there but this is what we use. The question now is why do we use this and why is it better then all the other test?
In fitness it is important to know that it's not what you use but how you use it (don't get any dirty thoughts). Any assessment test is the best if you are the best at using it. Pick an assessment test that you are 100% comfortable with. I have used some of the FMS stuff but I am not 100% comfortable with it all, so I use parts of it that I can speak confidently about. You must be able to speak to your client with confidence about the results of the test. There can be no "umm, ugh, hmm, maybe, not sure". The client must feel that you know where they are lacking and that you are the person that can help them fix what is wrong.
I also believe that the assessment NEVER ENDS! What I mean by that is, every time the client walks in I am watching how they walk and how they move. I am ALWAYS assessing to see what progressions are being made and what needs to be changed. When people are being assessed they tend to be super strict with form and want to pass the test. Its like when kids in school behave super nice when the principle is around but go crazy when he/she leaves. So many times your assessment has crappy findings anyway because they know you are looking for some weakness. This is why I make it a point to never cue during the assessment. Just tell them to do what feels natural.
If I had to pick the best assessment tool, what would it be? Since I train mostly athletes, I would have to say the best tool is.............(drumroll please)............. GO TO THE GAME AND WATCH THEM PLAY!!!(On a side note, they will also know you care and they will be happy that you came out to support them) I will bet you will be surprised at how they move on the field, court, pitch. All muscular imbalances and everything you want to see will show if you watch close enough. To me, ONLY using the assessment you did in the gym is like trying to assess the strength of a Lion by watching them in the zoo. You wont be able to see anywhere near the strength they have until you watch them in the wild. Watch you clients do what they do best and you will get your assessment.
I hope I answered the question. If not feel free to email me. Also be sure to subscribe to our youtube channel for workout videos, join our facebook group and follow us on twitter. Thanks for the love and support
-FLO
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