Functional Movement Screening (FMSTM) of Recreational Gym Trainees and Amateur Football Players

Abstract

Background: Functional movement screening (FMS) is widely used to evaluate movement patterns to identify asymmetries and ability to perform fundamental movements. This study evaluated and compared FMS performance among recreational gym trainees (static training emphasis) and amateur football players (dynamic training emphasis), aged 19-20 years. The objective was to determine how activity-specific training influences FMS performance across seven tests assessing mobility, stability, and motor control. Fifty male participants (RGT= 25 & AFP = 25) completed the FMS test protocol. Between group differences were assessed by independent samples t-test (α =0.05), prior to that statistical assumptions like homogeneity of variance and normality were verified. RGTs exhibited superior performance in deep squat (2.92 ± 0.27 vs 2.48 ± 0.50, p<.001), in-line lunge (2.96 ± 0.20 vs 2.68 ± 0.47, p<.001), and trunk-stability push-ups (2.96 ± 0.20 vs 2.64 ± 0.48, p<.001). AFPs excelled in shoulder mobility (2.80 ±0.40 vs 2.00 ± 0.76, p<.001), and active straight leg raise (2.92 ± 0.27 vs 2.60 ± 0.57, p=.001). Overall FMS scores were similar (RGTs=18.56 vs AFPs=18.88), both exceeding the injury risk threshold of 14. Both RGTs and AFPs showed functional competency and suggest FMS differences reflect training adaptation rather than deficits.

Key Words: Functional Movement Screening (FMS^TM), Movement Pattern, Football Players, Gym Trainees.

DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/16-3-01

Publication date: October 28^th 2026