Functional Movement Screening and Paddle-Sport Performance.

Andrew Hatchett,Charles Allen,Jake St Hilaire,Alex Larochelle

doi:10.3390/sports5020037

Abstract

The purpose of the study reported here was to determine the relationship between an endurance paddle-sport athlete’s total functional movement screening (FMS) score and individual race performance. Fifty elite level endurance canoeists and kayakers completed the seven-stage FMS protocol prior to the 2016 United States Canoe and Kayak Association National Championship race. Time taken to finish the race was then associated to overall FMS score and respective sub-scores. Total FMS score and various sub-scores were significantly related to race performance. Female and male athletes differed in which sub-scores were shown to be significantly correlated to finishing time. Outcomes from this study indicate that limitations in functional movement are related to endurance paddle-sport race performance.

Highlights

The International Canoe Federation defines a canoe and/or kayak marathon as an event in which the competitor races over a designated long distance course, on water, and subject to prescribed standards
Outcomes from this study indicate that limitations in functional movement are related to endurance paddle-sport race performance
The functional movement screening (FMS) is a diagnostic tool that can be used to assist in the determination of limitations that are likely to lead to injury of an athlete

Summary

Introduction

The International Canoe Federation defines a canoe and/or kayak marathon as an event in which the competitor races over a designated long distance course, on water, and subject to prescribed standards. The competitor must take the water as it is found and be prepared, if it is necessary, to carry his or her canoe around an impassable obstacle, or between two waterways [1]. Endurance paddle-sport contests can range from 13 to 170 miles over several days and include sections of portage [2]. These rules and standards are generally held consistent for other paddle sports such as marathon kayak racing as well. Athletes develop the ability to read different water conditions so as to both avoid obstacles and seek out faster-moving water [3]

Methods

Results

Conclusion