We’re often told to stand up straight for good posture and to avoid back pain. But is that advice always right? Pilates instructor and movement specialist Lena Starzynska (@starlikemovement on Instagram) challenges this notion in her insightful video.
“Our spines are not straight,” Starzynska explains in her caption. “They are more like a spring or [the] letter S. It makes it easier for them to handle loads.”
While we don’t need to be rigidly upright all the time,keeping our spines healthy does involve showing some love to our postural muscles. These deep core muscles provide crucial support for our spines as they bend, twist, and bear weight.
Strengthening Your Postural Muscles
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Starzynska demonstrates three simple exercises using just a yoga block and a dumbbell to help strengthen these essential muscles. Aim for 8-12 repetitions on each side.
- Supported row
- Extension and side tap
- Gate lean
What Does Good Posture Really Mean?
We often associate good posture with sitting or standing upright, assuming it indicates a strong and healthy spine. Though, the reality is more nuanced.
“A healthy spine is a resilient one. We don’t want to just be able to ‘stand straight.’ We need to be able to respond to our surroundings—bend, twist or be tall and proud,” Starzynska clarifies.
Physical therapist dr. Andy Fata-Chan emphasizes this point, explaining that posture can be viewed in two ways: static (when standing or sitting) and dynamic (when moving).Static posture alone doesn’t reveal how well someone moves dynamically or the health of their spine.
“There are so many variations to posture…it’s unachievable to tell if someone is going to be in pain based on their static body,” says Dr. Fata-Chan.
The key takeaway? Focus on regular movement, incorporate strength training, and stretch regularly to maintain versatility for a truly healthy spine.
Invest in Adjustable Dumbbells
If you’re looking to add some variety to your home workouts, adjustable dumbbells are a great investment. Their versatility allows you to easily adjust the weight, making them suitable for a wide range of exercises.
looking to elevate your home workouts without sacrificing space? Adjustable dumbbells offer a versatile and space-saving solution for strength training enthusiasts of all levels. These innovative weights allow you to easily adjust the resistance, eliminating the need for a bulky rack of individual dumbbells.
“Adjustable dumbbells are a fantastic investment for anyone looking to build muscle and strength at home,” says certified personal trainer,[Trainer Name]. “They provide the convenience of multiple weights in one compact unit, making them ideal for small spaces.”
When selecting adjustable dumbbells, consider factors such as weight range, adjustment mechanism, and overall durability. Our team rigorously tested a variety of models, all of which are featured in our comprehensive guide to the best adjustable dumbbells.
Once you’ve found the perfect pair, you can unlock a world of workout possibilities. From classic exercises like bicep curls and shoulder presses to more dynamic movements like lunges and squats, adjustable dumbbells empower you to target every muscle group effectively.
Need inspiration? Check out our full-body dumbbell workout designed to challenge your muscles and boost your fitness.
