When it comes to recovery and performance, most people rely on how they feel.
But here’s the problem: feeling strong isn’t the same as being strong.
At Core Performance Physical Therapy, we use objective strength testing with VALD ForceDecks to remove the guesswork from rehab and performance training. Because if you can’t measure it, you can’t truly improve it.
What Is Strength Testing in Physical Therapy?
Strength testing is the process of measuring how much force your body can produce, absorb, and control during movement.
Traditional methods often rely on:
- Manual muscle testing
- Visual assessments
- Patient feedback
While helpful, these methods are subjective.
Objective strength testing - like what we do with ForceDecks - provides real, measurable data on how your body is actually performing.
What Are VALD ForceDecks?
VALD ForceDecks are advanced dual force plate systems that measure how your body interacts with the ground during movement.
They analyze:
- Force production
- Power output
- Balance and stability
- Left-to-right asymmetries
- Landing and movement mechanics
This gives us a detailed, data-driven understanding of your strengths and limitations.
Why Strength Testing Matters More Than You Think
1. It Exposes Hidden Weaknesses
You can feel “fine” and still have significant deficits.
ForceDecks can identify:
- Side-to-side imbalances
- Weakness in key muscle groups
- Poor force absorption
These issues are often invisible during basic assessments - but they matter when you’re training or returning to sport.
2. It Reduces Risk of Injury
Imbalances and poor mechanics increase stress on your body.
By identifying and correcting these issues early, strength testing helps:
- Prevent overuse injuries
- Reduce risk of re-injury
- Improve overall movement efficiency
3. It Improves Return-to-Sport Decisions
One of the biggest challenges in rehab is knowing when you’re truly ready.
Without data, return-to-sport decisions are often based on time or general progress.
With ForceDecks, we can assess:
- Symmetry between limbs
- Jump and landing mechanics
- Explosive strength and control
This ensures you’re not just cleared - you’re ready.
4. It Tracks Progress with Precision
Rehab should be measurable.
ForceDecks allow us to track:
- Strength improvements over time
- Changes in asymmetry
- Gains in power and control
This creates accountability and confidence in your progress.
5. It Enhances Athletic Performance
Strength testing isn’t just for injury recovery - it’s a powerful performance tool.
By understanding how your body produces force, we can:
- Optimize training programs
- Improve explosiveness
- Increase efficiency in movement
Better data leads to better performance.
What to Expect During a ForceDecks Assessment
At Core Performance Physical Therapy, testing is simple and highly informative.
You may perform:
- Countermovement jumps
- Squat assessments
- Balance testing
- Landing mechanics analysis
The system captures real-time data, which we use to guide your treatment and training plan.
Who Should Consider Strength Testing?
Objective testing is valuable for:
- Athletes returning from injury
- Individuals dealing with recurring pain
- Active adults looking to improve performance
- Anyone who wants measurable progress
If you want to move better and perform at a higher level, data matters.
Why Core Performance Physical Therapy Uses ForceDecks
At Core Performance Physical Therapy, we believe in precision.
By combining:
- One-on-one personalized care
- Advanced movement analysis
- Objective testing with VALD ForceDecks
we’re able to deliver smarter, faster, and more effective results.
The Bottom Line
You can’t fix what you can’t measure.
Strength testing provides the clarity needed to:
- Identify weaknesses
- Track progress
- Reduce injury risk
- Optimize performance
Take the Next Step Toward Smarter Training
If you’re serious about your recovery or performance, it’s time to move beyond guesswork.
Schedule an evaluation with Core Performance Physical Therapy today and experience the difference that data-driven care can make.

Comments