Training 101: The spine

August 19, 7:01 PMLA Personal Training ExaminerOzzie Jacobs

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Each time we stand up straight to walk to our car, embrace a loved one or shake our body on the dance floor we should thank our spine. Every day our spine and its surrounding musculature battle the force of gravity to keep us erect.

Our spine is in its happiest and most comfortable position when we mindfully sit up or stand up with proper posture. The reality for most of us, however, is that our posture will suffer when we sit at our desk hunched over computers and slouched in chairs. These hard to break habits are the consequence of failing to listen to our mothers’ constant nagging (“Sit up straight!”). In this position our spine is at a disadvantage and the surrounding musculature cannot work in harmony. The resulting imbalance causes excessive tightness in one area and corresponding weakness in the opposing muscle groups.

As the hours, days and years pass the situation gets worse and our body starts to conform to this new posture, which can cause major issues such as herniated discs/bulging discs (in the low back and neck), excessive tightness in the chest, headaches and an inability to sit/stand up straight (the “Hunchback of Notre Dame” look has never been attractive).

The spinal musculature, like any other muscle group, will benefit from a program that incorporates strength and flexibility. Check out the following video for some great exercises to incorporate into your fitness routine today!