By Aaron Boike, B.S. Kinesiology, American Council on Exercise Certified Trainer

“Sit up” “Don’t Slouch” “Stand up Straight!”.. We’ve all been told at some point. Good posture is something that is almost thought of as a manners issue in our youth. The truth is, as we get older, posture becomes a real health and wellbeing issue. Posture is the position in which we hold our body during standing, sitting, or any other activity. Good posture promotes spinal alignment, proper breathing, and allows muscles to work efficiently and with less chance of injury.

Posture is really a full body issue, as every muscle, tendon and ligament in the body affects the others. However, there are three main areas that generally warrant the most attention when you’re attempting to improve your posture through strength training – your upper back and shoulder muscles, core, and glutes. Here are six exercises to help you get started on building a healthy and strong posture:

Exercise #1 – The W-I Raise (Upper Back and Shoulders)

Exercise #2 – The Low Row (Upper Back)

Exercise #3 – The Plank (Core)

Exercise #4 – The Torso Rotation (Core)

Exercise #5 – Kettlebell Swing (Glutes and Posterior Chain)

Exercise #6 – Stability Ball Hamstring Curl (Glutes and Posterior Chain)