(Content derived from NASMCES/PES)
Our ability to move is one of the most
important aspects of our existence. Recognizing
optimum movement requires a thorough
understanding and application of Human
Movement Science, specifically, functional
anatomy, kinesiology, biomechanics,
physiology, and motor control. Understanding
normal movement allows identification of
abnormal movement which can indicate
possible muscle imbalances and corrective
strategies.
Movement represents the integrated
functioning of many systems within the human
body, primarily the muscular, articular, and
nervous systems. These systems form an
interdependent triad which, when operating
correctly, allows for optimum structural
alignment, neuromuscular control
(coordination), and movement. Each of these
outcomes is important to establishing normal
length-tension relationships, which ensure
proper length and strength of each muscle
around a joint. This is known as muscle balance.
Muscle balance is essential for optimal recruitment
of force-couples to maintain precise joint motion
and ultimately decrease excessive stress placed on
the body. For many reasons such as repetitive
stress, impact trauma, disease and, sedentary
lifestyle, dysfunction can occur in one or more of
these systems. When this happens, muscle
balance, muscle recruitment, and joint motion are
altered leading to changes in structural alignment,
neuromuscular control (coordination), and
movement patterns of the human movement
system. The result is a human movement system
impairment and, ultimately, injury.
Typically Overactive Muscles
Gastrocnemius
Soleus
Adductors
Hamstrings
Psoas
Tensor Fascia Latae
Rectus Femoris
Piriformis
Quadratus Lumborum
Erector Spinae
Pectoralis Major/Minor
Latissimus Dorsi
Teres Major
Upper Trapezius
Levator Scapulae
Sternocleidomastoid
Scalenes
Typically Underactive muscles
Anterior Tibialis
Posterior Tibialis
Vastus Medialis Oblique (VMO)
Gluteus Maximus/Medius
Transverse Abdominus
Internal Oblique
Multifidus
Serratus Anterior
Middle/Lower Trapezius
Rhomboids
Teres Minor
Infraspinatus
Posterior Deltoid
Deep Cervical Flexors
Tissue Trauma
Inflammation
Muscle imbalance
Muscle Spasm
Altered Neuromuscular Control
Adhesions
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Postural deviations can occur for one or a
combination of the following reasons:
Repetitive movements
 Repetitive environment (single plane dominant)
 Injury
 Poor form and technique
 Poor muscular control/lack of spatial awareness
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Try to factor in work environment-how
active is your client while working, what
positions/postures is your client typically in
while working, what movements does their
job entail?
Use assessments-OHSA, SLSA, Rockport
walk test, 3 rep max conversion, etc.
Factor in movement assessments and work
environment to program design.

Use progressions
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Know your force-couple relationships
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Incorporate tempos (injuries typically occur in
the eccentric or isometric phase)
Avoid overtraining of shortened muscles