As we age, our shoulders can become rounded. Our spine starts to curve and it looks like we are getting smaller and hunched over. Good posture is something we have to continually work on, regardless of our age. Use of technology means we are seeing more “Iphone-neck”; this constant use of technology could have detrimental impacts on your neck and shoulders in decades to come (or potentially earlier!). The head weighs between 4-5kg so when it is bent forward to look at a phone or computer, that weight is putting excess pressure on your neck and cervical spine - the top part of your spine.
You can work on your posture starting today!
Think about lifting your collarbone up the ceiling – you know I love using this cue in class.
Your shoulder blades should draw back and down towards the opposite hip bone and your chest should then be open and relaxed. You can practice this anywhere – against a wall, sitting at a computer desk, driving in the car, cleaning your teeth even. Just make it part of your daily practice and it will become second nature.
If you have a foam roller, you can work on extension exercises* by lying down on the ground, knees bent and feet hip width apart. The foam roller should be lying the opposite way to your body and underneath your shoulder blades. Interlace your fingers to support your head and inhale as you reach back over the roller. Exhale to come back to starting position. This is a great exercise to open up the chest.
A strong core can also help our posture. Our abdominal muscles hold up our torso so by working the core, you may also find your posture starts to improve.
Classes at Wellspring Pilates work all muscle groups and help to improve core control, spinal alignment and posture. So come and try some sessions at Wellspring Pilates and see if you feel your posture start to improve!
I know when I see clients leaving, everyone stands that little bit taller and that makes me smile.
See you in the studio, Wellspringers
- Holly
*extension exercises are not suitable for everyone and you should check with your medical professional if you have any concerns before starting exercise. If you know me, you know I can’t help myself but include a legal disclaimer!
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