You were probably told to “stand up straight” throughout your childhood, right? Join the club! Although the instruction probably seemed quite annoying at the time, the person behind it actually had a good point.
Standing up straight gives the appearance of being taller, more confident, and graceful. Not to mention that it’s much better for your spine, in general. Poor posture from slouching (particularly during your teen years) can lead to a condition called hyperkyphosis which is charecterized by a rounded, forward-leaning upper back.
If that posture sounds familiar, don’t stress, because spinal extension is totally trainable.
Step #1
Sit against a wall, making sure that your ribs are back and the back of your head and shoulder are touching the wall.
Step #2
Bring your elbows to the wall and lift your wrists back to touch the wall behind you. It is very important that you do not lift your ribs as you do this; keep your back flat against the wall.
Step #3
Squeeze while straightening your arms up the length of the wall—keeping your ribs in—and then bending them back down. Make sure your elbows and wrists maintain contact with the wall and do 10 reps.
