Mike Reinold & Eric Cressey – Functional Stability Training for the Upper Body: Comprehensive Program for Rehabilitation and Performance Enhancement

Overview: What is Functional Stability Training for the Upper Body?

Mike Reinold and Eric Cressey’s Functional Stability Training (FST) for the Upper Body is an evidence-based educational program that revolutionizes upper extremity rehabilitation and performance optimization. This comprehensive system addresses alignment, strength, mobility, and dynamic motor control to maximize rehabilitation outcomes and training effectiveness.

Building upon their acclaimed Optimal Shoulder Performance program, FST for the Upper Body integrates cutting-edge concepts from FST for the Core and FST for the Lower Body, creating a complete kinetic chain approach to upper extremity function.

Who Are Mike Reinold & Eric Cressey?

Mike Reinold and Eric Cressey are highly respected professionals in the fields of sports medicine, physical therapy, and strength and conditioning. They have collaborated on educational programs like Functional Stability Training for the Upper Body, combining their expertise to help individuals enhance performance and prevent injuries.

Who Will Benefit from This Program?

For Rehabilitation Specialists

• Restore functional activities faster through evidence-based protocols
• Integrate complete kinetic chain assessment and treatment
• Apply advanced rehabilitation strategies for complex upper extremity conditions

For Fitness and Performance Specialists

• Achieve breakthrough results with clients through systematic progressions
• Maximize functional and athletic potential using proven methodologies
• Implement injury prevention strategies based on biomechanical principles

For Fitness Enthusiasts

• Gain complete control of upper body movement patterns
• Maximize functional movement quality and efficiency
• Reduce injury risk through proper movement mechanics

Key Learning Modules and Content

Module 1: Posture and Position’s Impact on Upper Extremity Function

• Scapular, cervical spine, thoracic, and lumbopelvic influences on arm function
• How poor posture creates muscle imbalances, strength deficits, and pain
• Effects of thoracic mobility loss, forward head posture, and anterior pelvic tilt
• Integration strategies for alignment, mobility, strength, and dynamic stability

Module 2: Joint Hypermobility Assessment and Management

• Client hypermobility assessment protocols
• Factors determining mobility variations
• Understanding why individuals feel “tight” despite hypermobility
• Selective stretching principles based on individual needs
• Population-specific hypermobility considerations
• Customized warm-up and strength training program design

Module 3: Elbow Functional Anatomy and Common Conditions

• Applied functional anatomy for understanding elbow injuries
• Most prevalent elbow injuries and conditions
• Risk factor identification and injury prevention
• Understanding referred pain patterns
• Why tennis elbow affects recreational players more than professionals
• Chronic elbow injury prevention for strength athletes

Module 4: Comprehensive Elbow Injury Evaluation and Management

• Differential diagnosis for various elbow pathologies
• Thorough examination and assessment techniques
• Rehabilitation principles for:
  • UCL injuries
  • Valgus extension overload
  • Ulnar neuropathy
  • Epicondylitis
• Kinetic chain integration in elbow treatment protocols

Module 5: Thoracic Mobility Restrictions (Live Lab Demonstration)

• Neuromuscular control drill integration techniques
• Phase-based neuromuscular control development
• Progressive challenge systems for maximizing control

Module 6: Shoulder and Scapular Muscle Imbalances (Live Lab Demonstration)

• Step-by-step neuromuscular control integration
• Progressive challenge protocols for control development
• Assessment criteria for progression and regression

Module 7: Scapular Position Assessment and Correction (Live Lab Demonstration)

• Unilateral deadlift variations vs. unilateral squats
• Body type-specific deadlift selection
• Coaching cue optimization for technique improvement
• Deadlift vs. Olympic lift first pull comparisons

Module 8: Elbow Epicondylitis Management (Live Lab Demonstration)

• Non-linear speed and strength protocol development
• Footwear considerations for change-of-direction work
• Exercise progressions and regressions for optimal outcomes
• Annual planning models for power development

Program Delivery and Access

Functional Stability Training for the Upper Body is available as:

• Comprehensive online educational program
• Physical DVD format
• Several hours of video instruction featuring Mike and Eric
• Lecture and hands-on lab sessions
• Practical demonstrations of all techniques

Why Choose FST for the Upper Body?

Expert Instructors

• Mike Reinold: Physical therapist, athletic trainer, and performance enhancement specialist
• Eric Cressey: Renowned strength coach and performance expert
• Combined decades of experience in rehabilitation and performance training

Evidence-Based Approach

• Grounded in current research and clinical best practices
• Integrates rehabilitation science with performance training principles
• Proven methodologies tested with thousands of clients and patients

Comprehensive Integration

• Addresses the entire kinetic chain
• Seamlessly combines with FST Core and Lower Body programs
• Builds upon Optimal Shoulder Performance concepts

Conclusion: Transform Your Upper Body Training and Rehabilitation

Mike Reinold & Eric Cressey’s Functional Stability Training for the Upper Body represents the gold standard in upper extremity rehabilitation and performance optimization. By integrating posture, mobility, strength, and neuromuscular control, this program delivers unparalleled results for rehabilitation specialists, fitness professionals, and enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re restoring function after injury, preventing future problems, or maximizing athletic performance, FST for the Upper Body provides the comprehensive framework needed to achieve optimal upper extremity function. The program’s unique combination of evidence-based content, expert instruction, and practical application makes it an essential resource for anyone serious about upper body health and performance.

Key Differentiators:

• Integrated kinetic chain approach addressing all contributing factors
• Expert-led instruction from industry leaders
• Comprehensive coverage from assessment to advanced progressions
• Practical application through live demonstrations and hands-on labs
• Flexible learning formats to suit different preferences