Our posture conveys information not only about our physical fitness, but also about how we feel.  The observation that good posture makes a statement about our character was one of the reasons that once upon a time, finishing schools for young ladies included posture classes in their curriculum.  Proper carriage was considered essential for making a positive impression.  Perhaps this association, along with the memory of our Aunt Bertha poking us in the back as children and admonishing us to “sit up straight” is why many of us tend to avoid and neglect our posture these days.

 Young children usually have naturally good posture.  Many children begin to slouch as they get older, and a rounded shoulder syndrome often develops during adolescence.  While some posture problems such as scoliosis, require medical attention, slouching is often a natural consequence of physical inactivity and a lack of body awareness.

 In adulthood, our daily lifestyle and poor posture habits have effects that accumulate over the years.  Sedentary occupations, unusual work-related physical stress, being over weight, especially in the abdominal area, and the natural course of aging all take their toll on our posture.

 However, poor posture need not be an inevitable outcome for most people.  A decline in posture and its associated musculoskeletal problems can be prevented through maintaining an awareness of proper body mechanics and participation in a well-balanced exercise program emphasizing strengthening and flexibility activities for the core muscle groups.  This includes the abdominal, back, shoulder, gluteal and hip flexor muscles. 

 A certified fitness trainer always stresses correct body position while exercising and can discuss with you how proper core exercise technique and body mechanics can enhance your posture as it applies to your daily activities.  But while enhancing posture depends on adequate muscle strength and flexibility, good posture also requires a conscious development of proper body alignment when standing, walking or sitting.  Together, exercise and improved body awareness can help keep you standing tall.

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Steven Loder, MES, CSCS “Coach Steve” has been assisting individuals just like you to reach their Weight Loss & Wellness goals since 1990. To schedule your Personal Health & Wellness Appraisal, Coach Steve can be reached via email through his website, www.newbeginning4all.com.   

 Or you may reach Coach Steve via his mobile phone, 201-259-7586.