POSTURE – why do trainers always bang on about it?

“Keep your shoulders down, don’t arch your back.” If you have ever seen a trainer I’d bet you’ve heard these sentiments. Often it would be an instruction which is repeated time after time. So why are your trainers seemingly obsessed by this stance?

The benefits of good posture include making the body more efficient, reducing wear and tear and thus preventing injury. Also it can positively impact your organ function. And let’s not forget, if you are vain like me, it makes us look younger too!

Whereas bad posture can have quite the opposite impact. Sore muscles, overly curved spine, weaker vertebrae, blood vessel and/or nerve constriction.

The truth is almost all of us have an imperfect posture to some extent. The issue is too often we act in retaliation when we should be acting in prevention. The longer we wait to act will extend the road back.

So what can cause bad posture? Weak muscles, tight muscles, bad habits, degenerative disease or osteoarthritis.

Some of the signs of poor posture:

• Excessively curved spine, can be at the top, the bottom or laterally.

• Having a completely flat back.

• Rounded shoulders. 

• Sitting slouched.

• Forward neck.

• Poshitis (it’s a real thing, caused by handbag carrying!)

What can we do about it?

Strength. Stretch. Good Habits.

• Strengthen core/upper back. E.g. Planks, bridges, back extensions, rows are always a good way to go.

• Stretch and mobilise key areas. E.g. Hips/chest.

• You are likely sat slouched reading this on your phone or computer! Sit tall and proud. Frequently retract your shoulders throughout the day and tuck your chin in.

Keep your spine tall and chest proud, keep your shoulders back and strive for symmetry from your left and right sides with your alignment. Also, endeavour to maintain this during all your exercises when your body is under extra pressure.

“When should I begin this?” Now if you haven’t already! It is eternally a work in progress. As Madonna once said strike a pose! Keeping up mobility and posture will always be in vogue.