You may have heard it all the time growing up: “Sit up straight!” While it might not have seemed important then, it sure is now – ESPECIALLY if you have a desk job, as well as generally as you age.
So, what does good posture look like? Basically, when you’re sitting, your ears, shoulders, and hips should align in one straight line. When you’re standing, your ears, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles should all be aligned. In either position, it’s important to keep your chest lifted, shoulders back, and your weight distributed evenly.
If you suspect your posture is out of alignment, you need to locate the source of the problem. Issues typically occur when one muscle group is too tight and the opposing muscle group is too weak.
Here are 5 tips
- ENGAGE YOUR CORE
Always! Whether you are carrying the shopping, a child around, or gardening – draw in your core from your belly button to your back - TARGET YOUR SUPPORTIVE MUSCLES
Specifically train your postural muscles to support your body. You can attend our Barre classes at FitnessWorks Nightcliff, Core classes at City or Nightcliff – or train at Alawa gym, some exercises are listed below: - LAT HANG
Sit at a desk all day or text a lot? The lat hang can alleviate tight muscles in your chest and upper back - SEATED LOW ROW
This exercise can help those over-worked upper traps (the muscles in your neck) and your under-worked lower traps (the muscles in the middle of your back) - SIDE PLANKS
Side planks target muscles in your core and hips — key areas for maintaining good posture. Keep your elbow aligned with your shoulder as you position yourself on one side. Tighten your core to keep your body straight from head to toe. Hold this pose for 15-30 seconds, with the goal of spending two minutes on each side.
Having great posture not only looks better, but supports all your other gym workouts. If you want any more tips – just ask us! All of our staff have heaps to offer.
Seann
Head Trainer
FitnessWorks NT
