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Definition: Length-tension relationship
The resting length of a muscle and the tension the muscle can produce at this resting length.
Why this is important to you?
Poor posture (like what happens when you sit all day, practice poor form while exercising or use repetitive movements) can alter the resting length of your muscles. When this happens, your muscles are unable to produce the optimal force necessary for efficient movement. This leads to poor performance (if you play a sport) and can even cause low back pain, shoulder pain, headaches or knee pain.
Corrective exercise can address poor movement patterns that may be holding you back
I sometimes get asked what the best posture exercises are. The answer is...it depends. (I know right? I hate that answer) But it really does depend...on your unique body and how you already move.
However, in general the best exercises/tips are:
Several times a day, do a posture check on yourself. All the proper exercises in the world won't help you if you go back to your "outside the gym" self and practice poor posture. Every so often check that your head is tall, lined over the shoulders, back is straight and shoulders are not forward or rounded.
Many people sit at a desk all day. Do twice as many row-type exercises as pressing exercises (such as bench press, push-ups) This will strengthen the back back muscles and help to pull your shoulders back into proper alignment
Shoulder external rotations with a light weight. Great for the rotator cuff!
