Poor Posture in Older Adults - Stretches

In order to address postural issues in our aging bodies, we must stretch the tight muscles and strengthen the weak muscles. Here are some great stretches for you to try:

Stretches:
W stretch for upper back and neck:
. start with your back against a wall, knees are bent slightly
. step about 12 inches away from wall with both feet
. contract abs with shoulders, back and buttocks against wall
. try to touch back of head against wall
. bring arms up to make the letter W
. bend elbows at shoulder height, wrists above elbows and palms facing forward, keeping body against wall, draw arms back until elbows, wrists and hands touch wall.

Pec stretch
- stand about 12 inches from wall,
- face wall and lift right elbow to side, wrist above elbow, palm facing forward
- turn slowly to left, allowing elbow and forearm to come into contact with wall
- continue to turn to left until you feel slight stretch in right pectoral muscles
- repeat with left arm.

Standing hip and thigh stretch
- hold onto wall or backset of chair
- bend right knee, and grasp right foot with right hand, back shouldn't arch
- repeat with left leg

Learn more about posture at my Stability Ball Training workshops accredited for Massage Therapists and Personal Trainers across Canada http://www.gaiaadventures.com/bodyball.html

Let's connect at info@gaiaadventures.com.

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures, Personal Training, Workshops
www.gaiaadventures.com
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