Why Most Movement Assessments Are Wrong (And What Coaches Should Do Instead)

In this episode, Dr. Sean sits down with Dr. Kalin Ashby to challenge one of the most common practices in fitness, rehab, and coaching: movement assessment. Together, they explore why many popular assessments fail to provide actionable information, how coaches often mistake observation for evidence, and why relying solely on the “eyeball test” can lead clients down the wrong path.

Sean and Kalin break down the difference between theoretical assessments and empirical assessments, explaining how coaches can collect meaningful data that actually informs programming decisions. Using a real shoulder evaluation performed during the episode, they walk through a practical framework for assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and capacity without creating fear or dependency in clients.

Whether you’re a coach, physical therapist, chiropractor, or fitness professional, this conversation will help you build a more evidence-based approach to assessment, improve your decision-making process, and better understand how to bridge the gap between observation and action.