Purpose <p>The functional movement screen (FMS) is a screening tool designed to detect movement deficiencies. However, the relationship between FMS and the basic components of athletic performance, such as trunk stabilization, balance and body composition, has not been clearly demonstrated. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the relationship between FMS and isokinetic trunk muscle strength, balance and body composition.</p> Methods <p>The study was conducted on 76 professional athletes age of 23.35 ± 3.71 (yrs). FMS original kits were used to evaluate 7 different movement patterns. Trunk muscle strength was assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer at an angular velocity of 60°/s in both concentric and eccentric modes. Postural stability was assessed using the Biodex Biosway Portable Balance System in the eyes-closed, single-leg position, while body composition was evaluated with the TANITA BC-418 Segmental Body Composition Analyzer. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship and linear regression analysis was calculated from the Pearson Correlation.</p> Results <p>FMS total scores were associated with concentric (<i>r</i> = 0.407/<i>r</i> = 0.465) and eccentric (<i>r</i> = 0.285/<i>r</i> = 0.510) trunk flexion/extansion muscle strength. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed moderate to strong negative correlations between the total FMS score and postural stability (Left <i>r</i> = 0.680 and Right <i>r</i> = 0.411). Also, there was a relationship between the body compositon and FMS score.</p> Conclusions <p>The results indicate that FMS performance reflects various elements related to trunk muscle strength, postural stability, and body composition. Coaches, physiotherapists, and sports specialists can utilize the FMS test battery to evaluate fundamental movement skills such as balance and strength, which play a crucial role in athletic performance.</p> Trial registration <p>This study was registered on <a href="http://www.clinicaltrials.gov">www.clinicaltrials.gov</a> (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06892262).</p>