IPPA stands for Injury Prevention and Performance Assessment. It is a web based platform tool for movement specialists to analyze movement through a research proven set of exercise tests to determine areas of the body that are prone to injury or may impede performance. The movement specialist uses the IPPA to take participants of various physical levels through their appropriate level of assessment. IPPA has anywhere from 6-14 tests to assess full body movement. The IPPA then provides appropriate, corrective exercises based on the results of the exercise tests. The IPPA delivers a custom set of easy to follow, video exercises that can be accessed through the app and will be sent to the client by email. Exercises should be done 3-5 times per week over an 8-week period for best results. A new set of exercises is emailed every two weeks. After 8 weeks, it is suggested that participants retest to receive progressive exercises and to track improvements.
In short, everyone can take the IPPA. There are 4 levels of the IPPA – Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, and Pro. Based on the participants physical demands in sport or occupation, their professional movement specialist would determine which level they would best test in. The IPPA is for anyone that would like to understand where they can work to decrease the risk of injury and to improve their performance. Depending on the level of assessment, the IPPA test takes about 12 to 22 minutes to complete.
Ideally, a movement specialist who has completed the IPPA training either online or in person and has access to the platform to process and track the data. The movement specialist could be, but it is not limited to, a coach, a Pilates instructor, a safety coordinator, a physical therapist, a fitness instructor, or a personal trainer. You can also use the IPPA as a self-assessment tool if you don’t have access to a movement specialist. The instructions are easy to follow for each test but do require you to honestly assess your own movement if you test on your own. Some of the tests will require a partner to assist in measuring results.
The IPPA compiles a series of research proven movement screens that together help predict injury and optimize performance. Results are analyzed and used to design an individualized corrective exercise program for each participant that is then sent to the individual for independent use. IPPA provides information for the movement specialists as well as the participant to focus on with their exercise program, it tracks results over time, and can compare the individual with others within their level of physical demands and age. The IPPA helps you optimize movement and reduce risk of injury, resulting in greater ease with activity, improved quality of life, decreased time away from work or sport with injury, and more confidence in challenging physical demands.