Where is it common to start a static postural assessment according to the NASM kinetic chain checkpoints?

Starting a static postural assessment at the feet and traveling upward aligns with the NASM's approach to examining the kinetic chain checkpoints. The process begins at the feet because they serve as the foundation for the body's alignment and stability. By assessing the feet first, practitioners can identify any dysfunctions or compensations that might affect the entire kinetic chain, including the ankles, knees, hips, and up to the pelvis and spine. This bottom-up approach provides a clear understanding of how lower extremity alignment can influence overall posture and movement patterns.

This method is essential for identifying imbalances, as issues often originate in the feet or lower legs and can manifest higher in the body. Assessing from the ground up allows for a comprehensive view of how the body's segments interact, making it easier to pinpoint specific areas that may require corrective exercises or interventions.