I use this phrase alot and you may have heard of it, it goes 'when the only tool you have is a hammer every problem resembles a nail!' I like that because its such an easy trap to fall into. Most people I see with poor posture in my Alexander Technique practice have been told by someone to strengthen their core to improve it. Its been repeated so often now that people begin to accept it as true.

Yet could anyone tell me how the 'core' muscles are supposed to effortlessly support the body above it? Our postural reflexes coordinate muscles to maintain position and balance. This is a sub-cortical process, that is, its done without conscious effort. How are we supposed to coordinate our muscles to maintain good posture - there is just too many variables. If someones posture is poor its a coordination problem and therefore you cannot 'do it' yourself. One of the best authority on spine health, Prof Stuart McGill, sees it as a matter of endurance amd stamina and NOT a strength issue.

If you 'try' to maintain your posture either by conscious will or by strengthening exercises you will use too much effort and the wrong muscles. Find out what you are doing to cause your poor posture and then just stop doing it! Yes, that doesnt sound easier than the actual process of overcoming the habits but it is possible.

You are welcome to download my free ebook on this hot issue - please see correcting posture for yours.

regards

Roy