Effects of a dynamic stretching warm-up on functional movement patterns in female hip-hop dancers

Background: A large percentage of dancers suffer an injury to their musculoskeletal system at least once in their careers, as well as from pain caused by overloading or overtraining this system. A high frequency of injuries has been observed in hip-hop dancers. Before each workout, there should be a solid warm-up and stretching period. The lack of these two important elements increases the risk of injury. Aim of the study: This study aimed to examine the effects of dynamic stretching warm-ups on fundamental movement patterns in female hip-hop dancers. Material and methods: This study included 14 hip-hop female dancers, aged 15–17. Dancers participated in 6 weeks of dynamic stretching warm-ups. Anthropometric and demographic variables were measured. The effectiveness of dynamic stretching warm-ups in improving fundamental movement patterns was assessed using the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) test including qualitative assessments using Deep Squat (DS) Hurdle Step (HS), In-Line Lunge (ILL), Shoulder Mobility (SM), Active Straight-Leg Raise (ASLR), Trunk Stability Push-Ups (TSPU) and Rotational Stability (RS). Results: Before the intervention, the mean composite FMS™ score was 15.00 ± 1.84 points and after the intervention was 16.64 ± 1.39 (p < 0.05). There were also statistically significant differences before and after the intervention in the DS (1.86 ± 0.53 vs. 2.36 ± 0.49, p < 0.05) and ASLR (2.21 ± 0.69 vs. 2.57 ± 0.65, p < 0.05). The number of dancers who scored 14 points or less on the FMS test before and after dynamic stretching warm-ups decreased from 50% to 0%. HS (r = 0.63, p = 0.01) and TPSU (r = 0.79, p = 0.01) were positively correlated with composite FMS scores before the intervention. After the intervention, positive correlations were observed between ASLR and composite FMS scores (r = 0.68; p = 0.01). Conclusions: Dynamic stretching warm-ups significantly improve functional movement patterns, including DS, ASLR, and composite FMS scores. It is important to use movement competency screenings in injury prevention programs.