Develop proper walking posture with this simple Wall Stand and Scap Squeeze drill

These simple exercises will help you develop and maintain proper posture when walking. The purpose of good posture is to allow your muscles and joints to move in an optimal range for speed and pain free motion. You can do this standing or on your back, with knees bent 90 degrees and resting on a sofa or ottoman.

Start by standing against a wall with your feet hip width apart and your toes facing forward. Try to scoot your heels against the wall, but if that position is hard to balance, move your feet away from the wall until you can stand without tipping forward.

Next, you'll do some scapula squeezes to develop strong rhomboids and erector spinae. Do some with your palms up and some with your palms against the wall. When these muscles are strong, you'll stand tall without thinking about it! Your arms will naturally swing forward and back, instead of across your body.

The final exercise is to lift your hands into a "U" shape. While keeping your elbows and hands on the wall, slide them overhead and try to touch your fingers. NOTE: The wall in the video was not smooth, so I pulled my arms slightly away from the wall. Be careful to keep from scraping your watch or rings, as well as clothing.

For more information about improving your flexibility, Race Walking skills, or to learn more about Coach Carmen and Reshod Walking Shoes, visit www.reshod.com