Posture - Which one are you? Part 4

The most common postural tendency we see today is what’s referred to as a sway-back posture

It’s called this because the hips are thrust forward giving the appearance of the person leaning backwards, with the shoulders appearing behind the hips from a side view.

This tends to be caused by long periods of sitting and is usually a result of poor core stability.

The abs and hip flexors become inhibited and weak and as a result of this, the pelvis moves forward, forcing the shoulders to position themselves behind the pelvis in order to maintain an upright position. Again we see the bodies’ natural adaptation to incorrect posture in an effort to maintain its centre of gravity.

The pelvis tends to tilt posteriorly in this posture, inhibiting the hip flexors and core in general.

Although the hip flexors will be lengthened in this position, they may still be under tension in their lengthened state.

It is quite common to see someone with this posture locking their knees when stood still. This, in turn, shortens the hamstrings, making them more susceptible to strains.

The glutes become short and fail to function properly.

The adductors can also become very short and tight.

Like all other postural imbalances, being aware of it is half the battle.

You can combat a sway-back posture by:

Stretching – Hamstrings, adductors and pecs

And

Strengthening – Hip flexors, glutes, Calves and core