Menu
Posture has long been linked with a host of negativity… a lousy shaped body, musculoskeletal pain, and even poor sporting performance.
Over recent years, research has lifted the lid on posture and found that much of what we’ve all previously believed just isn’t true!
The research by a leading team of experts is summarised in the below 7 points.
Military. Kypho-Lordotic. Flat Back & Swayback… or just you, a human?
7 Surprising Facts about Posture
There is NO single ‘correct’ posture
Despite common posture beliefs, there is no strong evidence that one posture exists or that avoiding ‘incorrect’ postures will prevent back pain
Differences in posture are a fact of life
There are natural variations in spinal curvatures and there is no single spinal curvature strongly associated with pain. Pain shouldn’t be attributed to relatively normal variations
Posture reflects beliefs and mood
Posture can offer insights into a person’s emotions, thoughts and body image. Some postures are adopted as a protective strategy and may reflect concerns regarding body vulnerability. Understanding the reasons behind preferred postures may be useful.
It is safe to adopt more comfortable postures
Comfortable postures may vary between individuals. Exploring different postures, including those frequently avoided, and changing habitual postures may provide symptomatic relief.
The spine is robust and can be trusted
The Spine is a robust, adaptable structure, capable of safely moving and loading in a variety of postures. Common warnings to protect the spine are not evidence informed and can lead to fear.
Sitting is not dangerous
Sitting down for more than 30 minutes is NOT dangerous. However, moving and changing position can be helpful and being physically active is important for your health.
One size does not fit all
Postural and movement screening does not prevent pain in the workplace. Preferred lifting styles are influenced by the natural varying spinal curvatures and advice to adopt a certain posture or brace the abdominals is not evidence based.
Infographic:
Surprising Facts About Posture… ‘Sit Up Straight’: Time to Re-evaluate
Podcasts:
Empowered Beyond Pain Podcast Episode #16a
Empowered Beyond Pain Podcast Episode #16b
Research Paper
“Sit Up Straight”: Time to Re-evaluate
Strength training has many benefits from improved balance, heart health, cardiovascular function, bone health and cognitive function.
Among the lesser mentioned benefits are its ability to improve posture.
While the above evidence says there is no ‘bad’ posture, we always want to work towards a more upright, aligned body position.
Typically, poor posture presents with an exaggerated curvature of the spine that can lead to a more limited range of movement in some joints.
This reduced available movement will prevail in reduced balance, strength, and ability to perform everyday tasks.
By working through a full range of movement, we develop and maintain our joints and musculatures full range of movement.
With our newfound range of movement we can progressively work on our strength using our body weight and when needed, external resistance to further develop our muscle strength.
This improved strength will help us maintain our increased range of movement and prevent us from reverting to our old posture.
Gain access to exclusive updates, news and offers, ebooks and much more. Simply complete the below to be kept up to date.
Please note; if you’re already on our contact list or you’ve previously been a member, please call us or click here
Rotherwas Gym
Unit 2, Clearview Court, Twyford Road,
Hereford, HR2 6JR
City Gym
Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JU
Good habits rely on flexibility and convenience. Having all of our sessions available via our On Demand library gives you the ability to access great training anytime, anyplace.
Whether you live too far away to visit frequently or prefer the comfort of training at home, our LIVE training program will deliver great results. No matter what you’re looking to achieve, we’ve proven results using this method of training.
Located north and south of the Wye, our two well appointed Hereford gyms, give members from the county and further afield easy access to our services. Both also providing shower and changing facilities and the chance to grab a post workout tea or coffee!