




07
We stump, stoop, slouch…so much so that the quality of our everyday lives can be directly affected from these posture problems. I thought of this while sitting at the computer working, and had to stretch to relieve that nagging tightness between my shoulder blades. At the same time, I noticed a whole slew of other bad habits I was committing, and quickly set about practicing what I preach.
Why good posture is important:
Practicing good posture can improve your breathing, decrease your risk of injury, help you move more easily through the tasks of daily living, and also improve your sports performance.
Some signs you might need to improve your posture?
- Do you have one hip higher than another?
- Do you have one shoulder higher than another?
- Does one side of your body rotate slightly more to one side?
- Does your pelvis tip forward, back, or to one side when you stand?
- Does your head juts forward beyond neutral alignment?
- Do your chest and shoulders roll inward, as if your slouching, even when you’re trying not to?
- Are the arches of feet are collapsed?
9 Pointers for Improving Posture
31

Tricep extensions performed on a stability ball
I wasn’t always like this, but lately I’ve adopted the attitude that “less is more.” Perhaps the clutter that inevitably comes with four children has forced me to scale back on my own belongings just to make room for theirs. Or, I’ve reached a point in my life where I need simplicity in order to keep from losing my busy mind. Whatever the case, I have a hunch I am not alone in this transition, therefore I want to introduce you to the one and only piece of equipment you need to tone, tighten and strengthen your core. Want a completely toned and tight mid-section? Hey minimalists – you only need one thing. Drum roll please…
THE STABILITY BALL!
Sometimes referred to as a Swiss Ball, Fitness Ball or Exercise Ball, stability balls have many uses and benefits:
This is my product pick! The Gymnic Stability Ball Plus from Perform Better. It comes with a 2-year warranty (most of its competitors offer only a 1-year warranty), and holds up to 600 lbs.

