Proper Posture
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Lesson Proper Posture By Carone Fitness Proper Posture Having correct posture is important all the time, not just during exercise. However, keeping proper posture and technique while exercising is critical! 1 Proper Posture Good or proper posture means that your spine is properly aligned (or in line). Proper Posture Standing Posture To have proper posture while standing: • Stand up straight and tall. • Lift your head from the crown, not the chin. • Feet shoulder width apart. • Roll your shoulders down and back. • Distribute weight evenly across the balls and heels of your feet. • Tighten your abdominals and tilt your hips slightly forward. 2 Proper Posture Standing Posture From a side view, your ear, shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle should all be in line. Proper Posture Poor Posture Poor posture can be the cause of a stiff neck, sore back and shoulders, headaches, and tight legs, knees, and ankles. It can put strain on your joints and ligaments, and even lead to injury. Examples of poor posture include: • Slumping or hunching shoulders • Belly out • Back arched 3 Proper Posture Poor Spinal Alignment Kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis are all examples of poor spinal alignment. These conditions can be caused by poor posture or by a medical condition. Proper Posture Kyphosis Kyphosis comes from the Greek word kyphos meaning “bowed or bent.” Kyphosis is a condition when the shoulders are rounded and the back is hunched. Some forms of kyphosis are caused by a curvature of the spine. However, kyphosis can also be caused by poor posture. The hunching of the back and shoulders can be augmented by certain tasks, such as carrying books or heavy loads and slouching while sitting at the computer or in front of a TV. As one perpetually uses poor posture, the back and shoulder muscles continue to stretch and weaken. 4 Proper Posture Preventing Kyphosis Postural kyphosis can be prevented by sitting or standing up tall with the shoulders back and relaxed. Proper Posture Lordosis Lordosis is also referred to as “swayback.” Lordosis is an excessive curve or arch in the lower back. Lordosis can be caused by several medical factors, but it can also be caused by poor posture. Lordosis can cause lower back pain, and problems with balance and agility. 5 Proper Posture Preventing Lordosis Strengthening the core muscles in the abdomen and back can help prevent postural lordosis. Proper Posture Scoliosis Scoliosis is a medical problem where the spine curves up the back like a snake. This is a condition that should be treated under the care of a physician. 6 Proper Posture Good Posture Overall, it is important to understand what GOOD posture is and recognize when you have poor posture so you can work on correcting it. Habits that are formed when you are young are hard to break, and poor posture can lead to joint and other problems if not corrected. Proper Posture Good Posture It is also critical to have correct posture while exercising. Incorrect posture can lead to muscle imbalances and even prevent you from working the targeted muscle groups. One way to gauge if you have correct posture is by noticing the line of your body as mentioned earlier. Ask yourself, “Is my spine in line?” Are your ankles, hips, shoulders and ear all in line? 7 Proper Posture Examples View the “Posture & Exercise” lesson in this section to see examples of correct posture. You can also view more tips on posture and technique in the Exercise Library. Presented By Carone Fitness 8.