We hear the word posture thrown around here and there in reference to the way we stand, sit or perform various movements. Well what does it actually mean? And, if there is such a thing as the perfect posture then how do we achieve this.
The truth is, no posture is perfect. Only optimal for your shape and your body. Posture is the position and alignment of your spine and all bones and muscles that work from its origin. It affects the way you stand and sit and can change over time as our lifestyle changes.
Posture problems can occur in many places, sometimes not exactly where the problem is seen. Just like a chain, issues can pass through the body and have detrimental effects on other muscles and joints. For example, a poor pelvic position could be the original cause of a hunch back and bad shoulder alignment. The initial problem has caused a chain of event and the issues further up the body are a result of compensation for the original issue.
Postural issues are caused by imbalances between agonist and antagonist muscles. Tight muscles pull on bones so much that they move out of alignment. The opposing muscles do little prevent this as they are too weak also. To reverse postural issues, several methods can be adopted.
Firstly, simple lifestyle changes can begin to establish strength in muscles that are weak, reteaching us to stand up straight. Secondly, using exercise such as Pilates can help strengthen our core muscles and pull our pelvis back into alignment. Pilates is helpful at strengthening the hips, upper back and shoulder, as well as increasing flexibility where muscles have become tight. Over time, using Pilates has shown to improve posture and reduce back pain.
You can do Pilates at home or at a gym or studio. Doing it at home is simple and cost effective and with the right tutorial you can see much progress. If you are new to this method of exercise there are many beginner Pilates videos you can use to teach you the key principles you need to know. Not only will Pilates bring you back from an injured state to optimal, it will then take you beyond normal and into realms of strength and fitness. You will find it will change your shape radically.
Posture is something we don’t always consider until there is a problem. I encourage you not to leave it so late but rather take the time to build a strong core using Pilates and developing good lifestyle habits. Prevention is alway better than the cure. Then you will find you enjoy the finer things of life more often, without experiencing injury or pain.