Looking confident and taller are two bonuses that come with good posture. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, proper posture allows for the least amount of strain on our bodies’ muscles and ligaments as we sit, stand, and walk each day. Proper alignment of bones and joints also helps decrease backaches, muscle pains, and excess wear and tear on joint surfaces that could contribute to arthritis.
Unfortunately, proper posture may be the last thing on our minds as we put in those extra hours in front of the computer, leaving us with slumped shoulders and rounded backs. Becoming more acutely aware of optimal spine alignment by training the abdominal and back muscles will help us regain better posture.
Pilates and yoga are great exercise methods for strengthening abdominal muscles like the transverse abdominis, and internal and external oblique’s. These muscles often help improve our posture by correcting skeletomuscular imbalance. Swimming and rowing are exercises that can strengthen the muscles running along your spine. A combination of specific weight lifting exercises such as rows and chest stretches can support better alignment by unleashing tightness in the chest while strengthening the upper back muscles.
However, access to fitness classes, the pool, or weights may not be available or convenient for everyone. Try these three simple moves you can do at home within a few minutes to obtain better spine alignment and improved posture.
Unfortunately, proper posture may be the last thing on our minds as we put in those extra hours in front of the computer, leaving us with slumped shoulders and rounded backs. Becoming more acutely aware of optimal spine alignment by training the abdominal and back muscles will help us regain better posture.
Pilates and yoga are great exercise methods for strengthening abdominal muscles like the transverse abdominis, and internal and external oblique’s. These muscles often help improve our posture by correcting skeletomuscular imbalance. Swimming and rowing are exercises that can strengthen the muscles running along your spine. A combination of specific weight lifting exercises such as rows and chest stretches can support better alignment by unleashing tightness in the chest while strengthening the upper back muscles.
However, access to fitness classes, the pool, or weights may not be available or convenient for everyone. Try these three simple moves you can do at home within a few minutes to obtain better spine alignment and improved posture.
