Poor posture can lead to a number of health problems for men. Therefore, achieving and maintaining correct posture is an important component in improving men's health. Correct posture is especially important for men who must sit or stand for extended periods of time.
Identification
Correct posture varies depending on your body's position, but is typically assessed while you are in a standing position. While standing, your ears, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles should align with each other. To achieve this alignment, raise your chest, pull in your abdominals and maintain the natural curve in your low back. Additionally, make sure your shoulders and hips are level, with your knees and feet shoulder width apart and pointing straight ahead.
Warning
Poor posture can cause pain in your neck, as well as in your upper and lower back. Numbness, tingling and pain in your legs can be due to poor posture. Poor balance, loss of strength and even constricted blood vessels can be attributed to postural misalignment.
Benefits
Correct posture improves your movement efficiency and muscular recruitment, leading to enhanced sports and exercise performance. Proper posture can improve your breathing, decrease your risk of injuries and alleviate pain. Achieving and maintaining correct posture can also increase your self-confidence.
Prevention/Solution
Eliminating muscular imbalances through strength training and stretching can help correct postural misalignments. Weight loss also plays a role in correcting poor posture. Utilizing an exercise ball in your workouts will strengthen your core and stabilizer muscles, leading to improved posture. Pilates and yoga may help you in correcting your posture.
Considerations
Take frequent breaks to stand and move around when you have to sit for extended periods of time. These breaks allow you to stretch your muscles and realign your body. Distribute your weight evenly when you find yourself standing for long periods of time.
References
- Spine-Health.com: Good Posture Helps Reduce Back Pain
- "Postural Analysis Specialty Training Kit"; Gina M. Piazza; 2002
