Functional Testing
Functional Testing is a way to measure how well athletes or patients can perform everyday movements and sports-specific actions. Unlike regular medical tests, it looks at real-world movements like jumping, running, or throwing. Athletic trainers use these tests to determine if someone is ready to return to their sport after an injury, track progress during rehabilitation, or assess overall athletic performance. Think of it as a practical exam that shows whether someone can safely and effectively do the movements their sport or daily life requires.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Functional Testing assessments for 200+ collegiate athletes
Developed individualized rehabilitation programs based on Functional Testing results
Implemented Functional Testing protocols to determine athletes' readiness to return to play
Used Functional Movement Screening to assess injury risk in team sports
Typical job title: "Athletic Trainers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Athletic Trainers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you develop and implement a comprehensive functional testing program for a sports team?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating testing protocols, establishing baseline measurements, coordinating with coaching staff, and implementing regular assessment schedules. Should mention data collection methods and how to use results to modify training programs.
Q: How do you handle complex return-to-play decisions using functional testing?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of combining functional test results with medical clearance, considering sport-specific demands, and implementing graduated return-to-play protocols while managing athlete and coach expectations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What functional tests would you use to assess an athlete's readiness to return to running?
Expected Answer: Should describe specific tests like single-leg hops, running analysis, and agility drills, explaining how these tests relate to running mechanics and injury prevention.
Q: How do you modify functional testing for different sports?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to adapt testing protocols for specific sports requirements, considering different movement patterns and performance demands.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a functional movement screen?
Expected Answer: Should describe fundamental movement patterns like squatting, lunging, and reaching, and explain how these movements are scored and evaluated.
Q: How do you document and track functional testing results?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic record-keeping methods, standard scoring systems, and how to track progress over time using assessment forms or software.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic movement screening techniques
- Standard testing protocols
- Documentation of results
- Basic injury prevention screening
Mid (2-5 years)
- Sport-specific testing modifications
- Results interpretation and program design
- Return-to-play testing protocols
- Performance baseline establishment
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and implementation
- Complex case management
- Staff training and supervision
- Research and protocol development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience performing movement assessments
- Lack of understanding of basic anatomy and movement patterns
- Unable to explain how test results guide treatment decisions
- No experience with emergency response protocols
- Unfamiliarity with standard testing equipment
Related Terms
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