Posture is something we have talked about many times in our newsletters, on our website and in client sessions. As I have grown older my posture has become really important to me and something I focus and work on – a lot! When I travel I am always watching people, observing how bodies move – in the airport, walking thru cities, running, hiking, etc. It’s truly amazing how many people (young people too) have already become slumped over and have horrific posture.
In order to continue fighting this battle we have taken it upon ourselves to continue talking about this. Over the next few months we will give you a different exercise each month that you can do to help you improve your posture. If you aren’t sure what to do or have a question about the correct form PLEASE ask us. We are here to help so that you don’t start looking like the chick up on the right. We want to see all of you standing proud and with excellent posture.
The exercise for this month (October): Cobra Pose – Back Extension
- Why It’s Good for You: This move strengthens the erector spinae (the back muscles that extend your spine and prevent slouching) and other low back muscles.
- Starting Position: Lie on your stomach with palms flat on the floor near your ribs. Extend your legs straight behind you, and press the tops of your feet into the floor. Forehead touching the floor.
- The Move: Before lifting your head, exhale strongly and pull your abdominal muscles in and up toward your spine. Lengthen out through your spine and slowly raise your head and chest off the floor, using only your back muscles. Do not push down into your arms to press up. Keep your hip bones on the floor, and gaze down at the floor to relax your neck muscles. Slowly lower back down. Repeat three to five times, adding more as your lower back gets stronger.