I have spent years observing posture whilst working at international sporting competitions around the world. You see shapes and sizes that you didn’t know possible and also differences across cultures. Posture is dictated by our genetics but we can all train our postures to be strong, mobile to give us the positive powerful energy that helps our confidence and performance. Yes, I believe posture has a link to performance, and I have many clients both sporting and executive that are on individualised postural programs to get all the health and performance benefits of postural corrections.

What are the benefits of optimal posture?

  • Prevents low back pain
  • Conserves energy
  • Optimise lung capacity, breathing pattern and concentration
  • Less tension in neck and shoulders
  • Fewer associated headaches and jaw pain
  • Protect joints
  • Increases core efficiency and strength
  • Improve physicality, self confidence and performance

What are some of the most common postural dysfunctions and the injuries they can cause?

Head, Neck & Shoulders

  • Poked neck
  • Rounded shoulders
  • Asymmetrical shoulders
  • Upper Spine Curvature

Associated Injuries

  • Neck joint pain
  • Shoulder Tendinopathy
  • Headache
  • RSI

Lower back, Pelvis & Hips

  • Lower spine curvature increase or decrease
  • Unevenly weighted hips
  • Pelvis misalignment

Associated Injuries:

  • Hip Pain eg. Glut Tendinopathy
  • Mechanical low back pain
  • SIJ Dysfunction
  • Sciatica

Foot & Ankle

  • Collapsed arches (flat feet)
  • Stiff ankles
  • Gripping toes

Associated Injuries:

  • Achilles Tendinopathy
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Tibialis Posterior Tendinopathy

What are the areas I can work on to improve posture?

  • Breathing patterns eg. WIM HOF
  • Targeted strength training e.g full body circuit, pilates, core strength
  • Low intensity exercise e.g slow walk or run
  • Sleep quality
  • Stretching e.g yoga
  • Massage / foam roller / trigger ball
  • Ergonomics eg. Desk, chair, screen, computer
  • Vision eg. screentime, eye health, nature viewing

How to start:

An individualised Posture Program by Merryn Aldridge which targets all weaknesses contributing to poor posture in your body is the best way to make improvements. An example of deep abdominal postural exercises are demonstrated in the video to get you started. For a program specific to you make a booking online with Merryn.