The Truth about Posture

Challenging the concept of "Bad Posture"
Posture has been a topic of concern for generations, with many people associating it with health problems and physical discomfort. We have been taught to believe that "bad posture" can lead to a myriad of issues, from back pain to decreased lung capacity. However, it's time to question whether the concept of "bad posture" is an accurate representation of how our bodies function. In this blog, we'll explore the notion that there is no such thing as bad posture and how adopting a more holistic perspective on our body mechanics can lead to a healthier and more accepting approach to our physical selves.

The Myth of "Bad Posture"
The term "bad posture" implies that there is a correct, one-size-fits-all way of holding our bodies, but this idea oversimplifies the complexity of human anatomy. Each person's body is unique, and what might be considered "bad posture" for one individual could be completely normal and functional for another.
Our bodies are incredibly adaptable and more resilient than we think. They can adjust to various positions and movements, and adapt to the load they are exposed to. Rather than focusing on the rigid idea of "good or bad posture," it is essential to understand that our bodies are designed to move and change their alignment based on our activities and needs.

Embracing Diversity in Postures
The human body is not meant to be static or fixed in a single position. Our ancestors, who led a more active and varied lifestyle, did not have the luxury of ergonomically designed chairs or desks. They moved, squatted, and knelt in different postures throughout the day, which helped them build strength, flexibility, and resilience.

Today, we should strive to embrace this diversity of movement in our daily lives. Instead of obsessing over maintaining a supposedly "ideal posture," we should focus on incorporating more movement and variety into our routines. Whether it's through strength training, stretching, or regular breaks from sitting, giving our bodies the opportunity to experience different postures can promote a healthier musculoskeletal system.

Comfortable and Capable Posture
Instead of thinking about our posture as good or bad we should consider

• what is a comfortable posture for me?
• What posture makes me feel capable? 

​​Our goal as exercise physiologists is to help people to improve their function. When it comes to posture we aim to support people to feel confident, strong and able. 

You can begin by paying attention to how your body feels during various activities, this can help you recognise when we need to shift positions or take breaks. Holding certain postures for extended times is simply a fact of modern life. For some of us this can feel quite comfortable, for other however it can be tiring and lead to discomfort. In out next blog post we will explore six exercises to help you unwind a static posture. So make sure you're following us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with all our tips over the month of August as we discuss posture all month long.