It seems as though the longer time goes on and more research is done on fitness and exercise, we are trending toward reverting back to some very basic human movements.  One perfect example is the Farmer’s Walk.  This very functional exercise is done holding heavy dumbbells in each hand, standing with good posture, and walking around 20 yards or so.  As with every exercise, make sure that you are able to master your posture before adding more weight.

This exercise works the musculature of your entire back, improves grip strength, exhausts your entire lower body, and focuses on lateral torso and hip strength.  It is an excellent choice to add into almost anyone’s program to add a bit of “real life” benefit.  Personal trainers should be aware of incorporating such exercises into their clients programs to aid in the function of their clients daily activities.

Good/Proper posture is essential in life as it is in the gym.  A good personal trainer will spend the time showing and adjusting your every movement to ensure proper posture while performing lifts.  It is up to you to carry this into your daily life.

First off, why is good posture so important.  Well, not only does it speak volumes about your self worth, esteem, and confidence, good posture helps ensure correct form while exercising and reduces the risk of injury.  Poor posture, on the other hand, exudes low confidence and low energy.  

There are several ways to improve/maintain your posture through exercise.  Patience and commitment are vital in the process of improving your posture.

- focus on breathing techniques during exercise

- develop a balanced exercise program (a good fitness trainer can help!)

- learn which muscle groups should be engaging in any given exercise 

- while performing standing movements, focus on softly bending knees, drawing your shoulders back, keeping the weight on your heels, and decrease any forward head movement

- engage core musculature to support body and added weight

- focus on a smooth movement with the appropriate amount of weight