4 Exercises To Help You Improve Body Posture

One thing most gym-goers probably don’t focus on enough: body alignment outside the studio walls. While you may work on cardio and strength, paying attention to your everyday posture is also crucial. Set yourself straight and balance out your body by checking out the six exercises below. It’s your complete guide to standing stronger and taller.

* Swimmers

Begin lying on your stomach, with arms and legs extended. Keep your head in a neutral position by looking down to the floor in front of you. In a swimming motion, swing your arms down by your sides. Then bring them back up and overhead by your ears. Focus on keeping shoulders relaxed and moving from the lats and mid back. That is one rep. Perform 3 sets of 8 reps.

* Shoulder External Rotation

Grab a dumbbell in each hand or wrap a light, looped resistance band around your hands. Palms face up. Bend your elbows and keep them against your torso . Rotate your palms away from your torso until your arms are almost facing outward. You should feel your back and shoulder muscles fire. Slowly bring your hands back together. Perform 3 sets of 10 reps.

* Farmer’s Walks

Hold a dumbbell in each hand, with arm extended down by your side. Make sure to keep your shoulders down away from your ears. Walk forward, keeping your core engaged and taking strong and deliberate steps. Walk for 30-50 yards, then rest. That’s one rep. Perform 5-8 sets.