Breaking Down the FMS - Shoulder Mobility (SM) | Body Fusion

Introduction

Welcome to Body Fusion's comprehensive guide on improving shoulder mobility! In this article, we will delve deep into the intricacies of the FMS (Functional Movement Screen) shoulder mobility exercise. Whether you are an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or someone looking to enhance your overall movement capabilities, understanding and improving shoulder mobility is essential.

The Importance of Shoulder Mobility

Shoulder mobility plays a key role in various movements and exercises, such as lifting weights, performing overhead movements, and even daily activities like reaching or lifting objects. Good shoulder mobility allows for optimal range of motion, stability, and injury prevention.

Understanding the FMS - Shoulder Mobility Exercise

The FMS shoulder mobility exercise is a standardized assessment tool designed to evaluate an individual's ability to move their shoulder joints through a full range of motion. It involves a series of movements and positions that test the flexibility, stability, and control of the shoulder complex.

Breaking Down the FMS Shoulder Mobility Exercise

1. Overhead Reach Test: This assesses your ability to fully raise your arms overhead, evaluating mobility and flexibility in your shoulders and upper back.

2. Shoulder Mobility Test: This evaluates your ability to bring your arms into a 90-degree abducted position, measuring the range of motion and stability of your shoulder joints.

3. Shoulder Mobility Clearing Test: This test helps identify any limitations or imbalances in shoulder mobility, ensuring you have the necessary range of motion for various movements and exercises.

Tips to Improve Shoulder Mobility

Here are some valuable tips you can incorporate into your fitness routine to enhance your shoulder mobility:

1. Stretching Exercises

Perform stretches that target the muscles involved in shoulder mobility, such as the deltoids, pectorals, and upper back muscles. Incorporate both static and dynamic stretching techniques into your routine.

2. Mobility Drills

Incorporate mobility drills that specifically target the shoulder joints, improving their range of motion. Examples include shoulder circles, arm swings, and thoracic spine mobility exercises.

3. Strengthening Exercises

In addition to improving flexibility and mobility, it's crucial to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder complex. Focus on exercises that target the rotator cuff muscles, scapular stabilizers, and upper back muscles.

4. Proper Form and Technique

Ensure you are performing exercises and movements with correct form and technique. This helps prevent compensations or imbalances that can hinder shoulder mobility. Seek guidance from a qualified fitness professional if needed.

5. Gradual Progression

Gradually increase the intensity and complexity of your shoulder mobility exercises over time. This allows your body to adapt and progress while reducing the risk of injury.

Conclusion

Shoulder mobility is a critical aspect of overall movement and fitness performance. By understanding and improving your shoulder mobility through exercises such as the FMS shoulder mobility exercise, stretching, mobility drills, strengthening exercises, and maintaining proper form, you can enhance your range of motion, stability, and overall movement capabilities.

At Body Fusion, we recognize the significance of shoulder mobility and offer personalized training programs tailored to address specific mobility needs. Contact us today to start your journey towards improved shoulder mobility and optimal performance.