Overview
Note!
- These exercises are designed for the over 50s
- Any exercise regime must be started only after checking with a medical expert, such as your Doctor, that the specific exercises included are suitable for you, based on your health and fitness
- Every individual is different, so you must work out your own individual needs, and what amongst the exercises are most useful – and possible
- Posture and poise is more than standing up straight so you can look your best. It is an important contributor to good health and fitness. Making sure that you hold and use your body the right way, when moving , can prevent pain, injuries, and other health problems.
- However absurd it may seem, moving incorporates being still, and sitting, standing, and lying down (for example when you are in bed).
- Great posture and poise will help your entire exercise regime, making it more likely you get greater benefit from all your exercise.
- It is a valuable component of any exercise regime in its own right, but also acts as a foundation for other exercises such as strength building and stamina.
How to work out what to do:
1
Understand your starting point, and how you want to improve your posture.
2
Look at photos of yourself, and in the mirror, particularly whilst you are in a standing position.
3
Look at photos of age-relevant models with great posture.
4
Stand against a wall to check your posture. You should have less than 2 inches between the wall and your neck and back. Keep this position in mind as you go throughout the rest of your day.
5
Learn what good posture looks like, whilst standing, sitting and moving.
6
Understand that your own perception of your position might not be totally reliable.
7
Focus on correcting and improving things in a holistic fashion, the entire body will need to be dealt with, not just one or two misaligned parts.
8
Yoga and Pilates are great for posture.
9
Awareness is one of the most important factors in developing your posture and poise.
Remember:
- Get checked out before you start
- Get regular check ups and monitor your health and fitness level as you progress
- Get help from experts, join a class if you can, such as an Alexander Technique class or lesson
- Nutrition and improvements in diet help to maintain a great body weight and keep you fit, just as much as the exercise does.
