Seated Exercises... Too Much Strain on the Back

The seated position places the greatest amount of pressure on the spine and back. In older spines, especially those that have been diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis, seated exercise increases the pressure significantly leading to an increased risk of spinal compression fractures or disc damage.

After age 50, the safest way to exercise is in the standing postition. This is beneficial for three major reasons. First, in the standing position, the pressures on your spine are reduced allowing for a safer exercise experience. Low pressures means less chance of fracture.

Second, most of the activities of daily living (ADL) that you perform are in the standing position. Some examples of these ADL's include loading and unloading groceries, house cleaning, making the bed, cleaning out a closet and playing tennis or golf.

Third, seated exercise does not improve your balance. Improving your balance has life saving benefits. Head trauma and hip fractures from falls are a leading cause of death in people over age 65.

Most of your work and play involves standing. Exercising in the standing position better prepares your body for these activities. In our Posture Perfect! classes, we focus on getting you out of the seated position and working to help improve your posture, balance and strength.