5 Simple Stretches for Better Posture and Less Pain

By , SparkPeople Blogger
I've blogged a lot about the downsides of sitting at work (or school) for hours a day. It can be a real pain in the neck—and back! But just because you sit doesn't mean you're doomed to suffer. The keys to combat the effects of sitting are to be aware of how you're sitting and take steps (literally!) to get up and moving as much as possible throughout your day.
 
For those of you who spend a lot of time in a seated position, there are a few posture-enhancing stretches I recommend that you do several times a day. These simple moves will help you focus on sitting tall and with proper alignment and help prevent pain and stiffness associated with being a desk jockey.
 

 
Try these easy stretches at least once or twice per hour. Each time you do them, use that as a reminder to sit tall with your shoulders back and your abs engaged, too. If you can, set a simple reminder on your phone or computer for multiple posture checks each day.
 
Do you have a sedentary job? How do you try to counter its effects: sitting tall, stretching, or something else?