The Effects of Torso-Borne Loads on Functional Movement Patterns

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics and Kinesiology
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Sports Science and Performance Analysis

Background:

• Functional movement is crucial for daily activities and assessing injury risk.
• Tactical personnel (police, military, fire) frequently carry heavy torso-borne loads during duty.
• External loads can significantly impact physical performance and movement efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare functional movement screen results under loaded and unloaded conditions.
• To identify the effects of torso-borne body armor on tactical performance.
• To provide objective data on how external loads influence functional movement.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four physically active participants (11 males, 13 females) were recruited.
• Participants completed the Fusionetics™ Movement Efficiency Test (FMET) in two counterbalanced conditions: loaded (13.5 kg vest) and unloaded.
• Movement performances were video recorded and scored for overall and subscale quality.

Main Results:

• A significant decline in overall functional movement quality was observed in the loaded condition (12.6±7.3 points, p<.001, d=1.8).
• Statistically significant decreases were noted in 2-leg squat (d=0.8), push-ups (d=1.1), shoulder (d=2.1), and trunk movements (d=0.9).
• No significant effects of load were found on cervical or 1-leg squat movements.

Conclusions:

• Torso-borne body armor significantly reduces functional movement pattern quality in tactical athletes.
• These findings suggest that functional movement screens should incorporate external loads for tactical populations.
• Loaded movement assessments may offer a more accurate evaluation of readiness and injury risk for tactical personnel.