Better Posture #2

Tight chest muscles, the Pectorals, pull the shoulders forward collapsing the chest and causing the upper back to round. This is a very common pattern seen in most people.

For better posture and to avoid possible upper back pain, it’s critical to stretch the Pectorals on a regular basis (i.e. every day).

Wall Clock is a simple exercise that can be done almost anywhere and is very effective at opening the chest and stretching the Pecs.

Stand a foot away from the wall.

Raise your arm straight up and place the palm on the wall. Keep the arm alongside the ear.

Your arm acts as the clock arrow - straight up is 12 o’clock.

Walk your fingers back, pulling the chest muscles open, and stop at 1 o’clock (if your right arm is up). Pause here for 3 full breaths.

Walk the fingers farther back to 2 o’clock. Pause, again, for 3 more breaths.

Finally, walk the fingers to 3 o’clock, and pause for 3 breaths.

Now, check the length of your arms. The arm you stretched will be at least 2 inches longer – I guarantee it!

Repeat on the other side with the left arm at 11, 10, and 9 oclock.