{"id":19213,"date":"2013-03-08T09:39:26","date_gmt":"2013-03-08T14:39:26","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.fitzness.com\/blog\/?p=19213"},"modified":"2014-10-29T11:17:22","modified_gmt":"2014-10-29T16:17:22","slug":"picture-perfect-posture-while-sitting-standing-and-sleeping","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fitzness.com\/blog\/picture-perfect-posture-while-sitting-standing-and-sleeping\/","title":{"rendered":"Picture-Perfect Posture while Sitting, Standing and Sleeping"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you’re laying down in bed, sitting at the dinner table, or getting in your daily exercise, good posture is important to your health.\u00a0 In order for your muscles to function at maximum efficiency, it\u2019s imperative to practice good posture.\u00a0 With it, there is less strain on your joints, ligaments, and muscles: which means a healthier body!\u00a0 Not only will you feel the difference, but you look completely different too!\u00a0 You’ll demand the attention of everyone in the room by looking elongated and engaged in what\u2019s happening.<\/p>\n

Having good posture doesn\u2019t come without a little work.\u00a0 There are a few things you need to be aware in order for you to have good posture.\u00a0 Just thinking about the way you are sitting, standing, or even driving will help you correct your posture.\u00a0 If you know when you are slouching or leaning to one side, you can quickly adjust to realign your body in the perfect posture position (try saying that three times fast)!\u00a0 You also should consult with someone other than yourself when assessing your own posture.\u00a0 Mirrors work, but a friend can see your problem areas and where you are struggling.\u00a0 Is it your neck that leans forward, your back that hunches over, or your knees that lock out?\u00a0 Grab a friend, your personal trainer, or even a doctor to look at how you stand and sit to help you find perfect posture.<\/p>\n

Sitting Posture<\/b> \u2013 Sit with your butt fully on the chair and your back up against the chair back.\u00a0 Your feet should remain flat on the floor and your shoulders should be pulled back.\u00a0 Try to distribute your weight evenly on both of your hips, and bend you knees at a right angle<\/p>\n

\"Sitting<\/a>

Photo Credit: Cara Canington<\/p><\/div>\n

Lifting Posture<\/b> \u2013 Don\u2019t bend at the back!\u00a0 That puts strain on your muscles and you could seriously be injured.\u00a0 Instead, bend your knees to pick up something heavy.<\/p>\n

\"Lifting

Lifting Posture – INCORRECT
Photo Credit: Cara Canington<\/p><\/div>\n

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\"Lifting

Lifting Posture – CORRECT
Photo Credit: Cara Canington<\/p><\/div>\n

Standing Posture<\/b> \u2013 Like sitting, be sure to keep you feet flat on the ground and your shoulders pulled back.\u00a0 Standing with your feet shoulder width apart (or slightly more narrow), distribute your weight evenly on both legs.\u00a0 Do not lock your knees out because this puts more strain on your joints, as well as presents the possibility of fainting.\u00a0 Keep your chin up to help align your neck and spine.<\/p>\n

\"Standing

Photo Credit: Cara Canington<\/p><\/div>\n

Sleeping Posture<\/b> \u2013 Some scientists believe that certain sleeping positions are better than others.\u00a0 But whether you are a side sleeper or roll on your stomach to catch some z\u2019s, there are a few things that all sleeping positions need to do.\u00a0 Keep a pillow under your head, but not your shoulders.\u00a0 Choose a pillow thickness that will align your head with your back and spine, and create proper sleeping posture.<\/p>\n

Poor posture can lead to serious health risks that are sometimes painful or even irreversible.\u00a0 Understand your body and what it takes to keep good posture.\u00a0 Being aware of how you sit, stand, and even sleep will help you take the load off of your muscles and joints, and live a life with good healthy posture.
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