WHAT IS GOOD POSTURE?

As difficult as it is to define it, good standing posture certainly isn't the hard, inflexible soldier's stance, inflated chest, standing at attention. It is perhaps better defined as a posture that imparts a feeling of lightness: head reaching upwards, like helium balloons attached to the top of one's skull. A person's correct stance has to feel comfortable, relaxing, and natural; it should merge seamlessly into one's personality and daily routine, as cozy as a favorite sweater.

WHY IS GOOD POSTURE IMPORTANT?

There are many reasons why holding a proper posture may make us feel better. The right stance allows the bones and joints in the spinal column to remain aligned and balanced, avoiding the damage that arises from excessive straining. It creates an environment where the muscles of the trunk can operate at their maximum efficiency and with less wear, allowing them to relax when not in use and therefore minimizing fatigue. It reduces the occurrence of low back problems, as well as the likelihood of developing the tense, painful neck and shoulders that plague so many of us at the end of a hard day.

WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE MY POSTURE?

In a world of uncertainty, there are few things that have as predictable a pay-off, as reliable an outcome, as a fitness program. The benefits from regular exercises include not only improvement in posture, but also blood pressure reduction, weight loss, depression relief, diabetes prevention, and osteoporosis avoidance, just to cite a few.

Braces and other devices that supposedly correct posture have at best a spotty record. You can read further down if you want to learn about what we consider the best way to improve your stance, the iPosture Monitor.

CAN GOOD POSTURE MAKE ME HEALTHIER?

The health benefits obtained by developing a proper stance are not restricted to the musculoskeletal system but extend to all areas of the body. For instance, the lungs can do their best job when our posture is good enough to allow the rib cage and the diaphragm muscle to expand properly. The exchange of oxygen between the lungs and the blood is thus improved and less effort is required to breathe and speak.

Also, when it comes to the digestive system, proper posture allows the internal organs in the abdomen to assume their natural position without undue compression, which can interfere with the normal flow and function of the gastrointestinal apparatus. An improper, slouched posture has been postulated as a contributing factor to several digestive problems from acid reflux to constipation and even hernias.

IS IT TRUE THAT GOOD POSTURE CAN MAKE ME LOOK LEANER?

Yes, definitely. By straightening up the body you can trim several inches from the waist simply by increasing the distance between your lower ribs and the pelvis, allowing greater volume for the internal organs to spread, and instantaneously reducing an overgrown belly.

CAN GOOD POSTURE INCREASE MY CONFIDENCE?

When was the last time you saw a successful person slouch? Good posture increases your confidence and well-being and, as a consequence, other people may be more likely to hire you, date you, or listen to what you have to say. Look secure and confident by carrying yourself high, and the world will respect you like you deserve.