How Improving My Posture and Seeing a Chiropractor Transformed My Pilates Practice

Working on my posture has made such a difference in my flexibility and mobility! I’ve also been seeing a chiropractor for my locked hips, and together it’s really improved my range of motion. Crazy how much better your body works when everything’s aligned!

If you've ever wondered whether improving your posture could actually impact your workouts, let me tell you—yes, absolutely! In my case, I've noticed significant improvements in my Pilates classes, and it’s not just about standing taller. The combination of posture work and chiropractic care has given me more freedom in my movement, greater core strength, and less tension in areas like my neck and back. Let me break down exactly how this has affected my fitness routine:

1. Improved Core Engagement

One of the first things I noticed was how much more naturally my core engages during Pilates. When your posture is properly aligned, your body uses the right muscles for stability, and you end up feeling stronger during exercises like planks or teasers.

2. Greater Range of Motion

Since starting chiropractic care to address my locked hips and posture, I’ve gained so much more range of motion. I’m able to do deeper stretches and more fluid movements, especially in exercises like bridges or leg circles.

3. Better Form and Alignment

In Pilates, proper form and alignment are everything. Working on my posture has made me much more aware of how I hold my body during each exercise. This awareness has led to better technique, more control in my movements, and fewer aches and pains.

4. Enhanced Flexibility

With improved posture and unlocked hips, I’ve noticed I can stretch farther and with more ease. It’s amazing how much more flexible you feel when your body is properly aligned!

5. Reduced Tension and Pain

One of the biggest benefits of improving my posture has been the reduction in tension, especially in my neck, shoulders, and lower back. With less discomfort, I can really concentrate on each movement and get the most out of my Pilates classes.

6. The Surprising Stomach and Skin Benefits

Since improving my posture, I’ve noticed my stomach skin looks more toned and my face looks more youthful! Better posture lifts everything, and that includes your skin.

How to Check Your Posture

Good posture isn’t just about standing up straight—it’s about alignment from head to toe. Here are a few tips to help you assess and improve your posture:

1. Wall Test: Stand with your back against a wall, your heels about 2-3 inches away from it. Your head, shoulders, and back should touch the wall, and there should be a small space between your lower back and the wall. If you can’t fit your hand in that space or if there’s too much space, your posture might be off.

2. Shoulder Check: Stand naturally and see where your shoulders fall. If they’re rounded or slouched forward, you might need to work on opening up your chest and pulling your shoulders back.

3. Pelvic Alignment: Place your hands on your hips and check if your pelvis is tilted. If your lower back is too arched or tucked in too far, you’re not in neutral alignment, which could be straining your hips and spine.

4. Chin Position: Check if your chin is jutting forward. Ideally, your ears should be aligned with your shoulders, so if your head is forward, try tucking your chin slightly and pulling your head back.

Simple Posture Exercises to Try

Before heading to your next Pilates class, give these simple posture exercises a try to help improve your alignment:

- Chin Tucks: While sitting or standing, gently tuck your chin back to align your ears with your shoulders. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times.

- Shoulder Blade Squeeze: Sit or stand up straight, then gently squeeze your shoulder blades together, as if you’re trying to hold a pencil between them. Hold for 5-10 seconds, then release.

- Cat-Cow Stretch: On your hands and knees, alternate between arching your back (cat) and sinking your belly toward the floor (cow). This helps stretch and mobilize your spine.

For a full posture routine, check out [this posture exercise link]! 👈🏼

Posture and Pilates: A Perfect Pair

If you’ve been struggling with tight hips, poor flexibility, or discomfort during your workouts, working on your posture and possibly visiting a chiropractor could make all the difference. For me, it’s been a game-changer in my Pilates practice, and I’m seeing progress I never thought possible.