Assessment
Domain 2: Assessment
The exam tests preparticipation screening, virtual posture and movement assessment, and how you interpret data without overstepping scope.
Core rules
- Start with PAR-Q+, informed consent, and medical clearance when indicated. Explain camera use, recording, and data storage before the first screen.
- Set the camera at roughly hip height, full body in frame, plain background, good light; capture anterior, lateral, and posterior views. Ask for a slow, controlled overhead squat and single-leg squat, plus pushing and pulling if space allows.
- Observe from the feet up: foot pronation/supination, knee valgus/varus, lumbo-pelvic-hip complex compensation, shoulder position, head position. Record what you see, not a diagnosis.
- Use talk test and RPE for cardio; a step test only if the client has a stable step and no contraindication.
- Reassess at planned intervals and compare like with like: same camera angle, same footwear, same cue.
Worked example
A lateral-view overhead squat shows the arms falling forward and the low back arching. You note possible overactivity in the lats and hip flexors with underactivity in the deep core and glutes, then select Phase 1 stabilization work and a tempo that rewards control. You do not label it a "back problem." Reasoning: the screen identifies movement compensation; the program addresses it; diagnosis belongs to a licensed clinician.
Traps
Assessing from one angle; changing camera position between retests; using body-composition numbers as shame-based motivation; skipping screening because the session is online; ignoring red flags such as chest pain or dizziness.