Gray Cook offers a simplification of the concept of “functional” that can be applied to anything. If it’s good enough, then it’s functional.
This statement is really behind the origin of the Functional Movement Screen. The screen wasn’t and isn’t about sport-specific movements. The Functional Movement Screen is about identifying signature human movement patterns that aren’t good enough. Why? Because we know that these dysfunctional patterns bring with them risk and limitations (like inhibited learning and adaptation.)
The key to acting when something isn’t good enough is proper sorting. We’re often afraid to think in pass/fail terms, but that’s the first step in directing attention where it’s most needed. Further sorting is where the FMS magic is: Did you fail because of painful movement or unacceptable movement? Did you pass with acceptable movement or exceptional movement? Whatever the answer is, it holds information to guide the next step.
Screening gives you a distribution within these categories of pass or fail.
Testing plots incremental improvement where needed and validates the screen process.
Assessments provide you with the information needed to determine and take your primary action.
The logic is simple. Consistent application of that login is what makes a difference in outcomes.