In 2003, the opening chapter of Triathlete's Edge by Marc
Evans placed significant importance upon the assessment
of functional muscle length and strength in the development
process of a training program for the triathlete. Using
functional testing screens to evaluate movement is an effective
coaching tool to help ascertain on a macr0-level how an
athlete’s fundamental movement compares to a normal
individual.
This comprehensive 90-minute session assesses movements
through a series of screens. The screens evaluate functional
mobility, flexibility and core strength. Following these
evaluations a prescriptive mobility, flexibility and core
exercise prescription is provided.
Oftentimes, restrictions in muscle length and weakness
in muscular strength result in compensating movements. Asymmetrical
movements often result and are linked to musculoskeletal
chronic injury. And perhaps, for this reason alone every
athlete who works with a coach should have a movement screen
performed.
Similarly, restrictions in range of motion, weak postural
muscles and poor mobility affect performance. For example,
tight anterior and posterior Tibialis muscles of the lower
legs cause compensation of the normal range of plantar and
dorsi flexion. Both of these affect toe flexion in swimming,
ankling mobility in cycling and increases inertia when running
as the ankles loose stored energy with too little dorsi
flexion capability.
