FMS or 3DMaps
I am interested in completing a movement screen cert. Does anyone have any experience with either FMS or 3D Maps?
It seems that the FMS is more popular. One thing I am not sure of do you need to purchase the FMS kits once completed. I presume you do have to you can conduct screenings using the FMS principles. Seems a bit expensive at $500 for the kit. Perhaps 3D Maps is more practical as the screening needs no extra equipment
Any help appreciated.
Are you already working somewhere that uses a system? Perhaps you can go in on an FMS kit with several fellow trainers or ask for one in the training equipment budget (one can always dream).
I haven’t used 3D Maps so I don’t know anything about it. The best tool, in my opinion, is the one that you will use, frequently and consistently. You will get good results with any tool if you know how to use it consistently, interpret the results, and derive related programming. In my opinion, it’s like asking whether a barbell or a dumbell is better; both, when properly used, will give results. There are pros and cons to both, but one isn’t inherently “better.”
Popularity is less relevant to me personally.
But I like the idea of not having to buy equipment…
I have found the FMS useful as it is slightly more “practical” since the education component breaks down core movement principles. As far as the cost of the kit, I have never seen one go for $500 (unless it was the wooden kit). You should check out Perform Better to purchase the kit, usually around $250 dollars or if attending one of their conferences you can pick up a kit they use for teaching for less $100.
Hi Cameron,
I am certified in corrective exercise with NASM and Justin Price’s Biomechanic’s Method. I also have the 3DMAPS. A co-worker of mine is a Physical Therapist who uses FMS. We have had conversations about the similarities between FMS and what I do based on my certifications. My answer to your question depends on what your background is with corrective exercise or movement assessments. If you are new to it and expanding your knowledge base as a personal trainer, I recommend that you use FMS. It is more structured. You will learn how to do the assessment,what to look for as you do it, and then what exercises to give your client to help correct the imbalances that you find. You will be able to explain to the client what you saw and how the exercises you give them will help them improve the way they move their body. This will help the client to buy into what you are teaching them. 3DMAPS is more abstract. The assessment is the exercise and the exercise is the assessment. I use it with some clients, but only because of the background I have with NASM and Justin Price. When I see a client struggle with the 3DMAPS assessment, I have a good idea of what is not working well for them. Then I can create a program for the client based on what I have learned from the other programs. If you are new to all of this, you will see issues when you use 3DMAPS but you will not really understand the issues your client has which are creating their improper movement patterns. Also, you will have a difficult time explaining to the client why they should continue to use the 3DMAPS movement patterns and how they will see results if they stick with it. I believe it will be much harder to convince a client to buy into the 3DMAPS if you do not fully understand how to explain what is causing their improper movement patterns. If you want to talk more about this, please send me a message with any of your questions.
Denny Pinch