The “one size fits all” approach of posture supports is a bad idea because everyone’s posture is unique, and has different underlying causes and habits that impact their posture. For example, some people may have poor posture as a result of muscle imbalances, while others may have developed poor posture habits over time due to prolonged sitting or standing.
Posture Supports Provide Temporary Relief
Furthermore, posture supports may only provide temporary relief and can actually lead to a dependency on the support, as well as weakened postural muscles due to disuse. Posture exercise, on the other hand, allows for a personalized approach that targets the specific muscles and habits that are impacting an individual’s posture, leading to more sustainable and long-term improvements.
Posture Exercise Actually Supports Posture
Posture exercise is a better strategy than wearing a posture support because it addresses the root cause of poor posture, rather than simply masking symptoms. By strengthening the muscles that support proper posture and improving body awareness, posture exercise can help prevent and alleviate discomfort or pain, as well as improve overall posture. Here are some reasons why posture exercise is a better strategy than wearing a posture support:
- Targeted Muscle Strengthening: Posture exercise targets the specific muscles that support proper posture, which can lead to improved strength and stability over time.
- Increased Body Awareness: Posture exercise helps to increase body awareness and encourages active engagement of postural muscles, which can improve posture habits and prevent the development of poor posture.
- Improved Range of Motion: Posture exercise can improve range of motion and flexibility, which is important for overall health and mobility.
- Sustainable Results: Posture exercise provides long-term, sustainable results, as the improvements in posture and muscle strength are the result of active engagement and strengthened muscle fibers.
- Reduced Dependency: By actively working to improve posture through exercise, individuals are less likely to become dependent on posture supports, which can lead to disuse of postural muscles and weaken overall posture.
- Addresses Underlying Issues: Posture exercise addresses the underlying cause of poor posture, rather than simply masking symptoms with a posture support.
- Personalized Approach: Posture exercise can be tailored to an individual’s specific needs and goals, providing a personalized approach that addresses the root cause of their posture problems.
While posture supports may provide temporary relief, it is important to address the underlying cause of poor posture through exercise and movement to achieve long-term, sustainable improvements in posture.
7 Steps to StrongPosture®
Dr. Steven Weiniger
