You may be someone who wishes you were just a little bit taller. More height might make the difference in playing sports or for simple tasks such as reaching the top shelf. Maybe you just want to look taller for cosmetic reasons. There are ways to possibly add to your height. Combining a healthy diet with a few regular exercises and stretches might just be successful in making you taller.
Standing Forward Bend
The standing forward bend stretch is simple, but can be effective in helping you become taller. The exercise helps to relax and decompress your spine, which naturally helps you stand taller. It also stretches your calves, hamstrings, hips, neck and back, which not only helps you stand taller, but also strengthens your body overall. To start, stand up straight, with your feet about shoulder-width apart, approximately 18 inches. Place your palms against the back of your thighs and slowly slide your hands down the side of your legs, bending at the waist, without bending your knees. Slide down as far as your back will allow without falling over or lifting your feet. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.
Downward Facing Dog
Downward facing dog is a yoga pose that can help stretch your body and make you more flexible. Also known as Mukha Svanasana, you want to start by getting down on your hands and knees with your legs shoulder width apart. With your palms flat on the floor and fingers spread, slowly straighten your legs and push up with your arms. You want to push your midsection upward, forming an arch. Keep your legs straight and hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. Focus on your back muscles and spine as you stretch in and out of the pose.
The Cobra
The cobra stretch is also a yoga style pose, known as Bhujangasana. This exercise will stretch your spine and strengthen your back and arms. It also opens your chest and can help with relaxation as well. Start out lying on your stomach with your legs together and arms at your sides and your hands palms down by your chest. Slowly raise your head and chest as high as it will go, keeping your buttocks tight. Push your head up and chest out while keeping your palms flat on the ground. Take several deep breaths as you hold the pose, return to the starting position and repeat.
Chin-Ups and Pull-Ups
Chin-ups and pull-ups are exercises that help strengthen the shoulders, arms, back and obliques. They also help with stretching your spine and back area. Doing these exercises regularly, every two days or so, can also help improve your height. For chin-ups, grasp an overhead bar with palms facing in about shoulder width apart. Pull your body upward until your chin reaches the bar, then slowly lower yourself back down and repeat. Do as many repetitions as possible. Pull-ups are similar to chin-ups, using the same grip, but with your body in front of the overhead bar until the back of your neck reaches the bar. Then slowly lower yourself again.
Member Comments