Nature of Specific Basic Exercises to be Used

in Posture Control and Improvement.

Regardless of the type of activity being done, there are certain
posture characteristics to which one must adhere if good posture is to be
maintained. These characteristics involve {1) a retraction of the lower
abdomen, (2) elevation of the chest, and (3) a control of the pelvic tilt.*
There are other important factors in posture control as indicated in the
accompanying pages (see Illustrations X and XIII), yet the three factors
just mentioned are of the greatest importance. ,

To master these three factors one must develop postural skill in
the muscles controlling the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. It is well to begin
with simple exercises which involve (1) voluntary retraction of the lower
abdomen, !2) voluntary rounding forward of the upper abdomen, (3) voluntary
elevation of the chest, and (4) voluntary reduction of the pelvic tilt. One
of the best exercises to use in helping the individual get the "feel" of
posture control is illustrated below. The exercise is executed in the prone:

position when first being taught.

 

*These characteristics are equally applicable to one's posture while

walking, sitting, lying, etc.