Ep 173: Is Posture a Thing?

In recent years there has been significant backlash against the idea that posture is related to good health. Join biomechanist Katy Bowman and biologist Jeannette Loram for a philosophical, historical and biological journey into the controversies around posture. 

Katy and Jeannette discuss whether posture is really a thing; is ‘good’ posture important or does your body work just fine regardless of how you hold it? Have we simply inherited postural ideals that are remnants of cultural, social and political baggage? 

Katy and Jeannette tease this out by discussing definitions of posture, the history of postural ideals and the difficulty in relating pain to posture. They turn to extreme examples of posture and Katy’s work in alignment to offer a more nuanced perspective on posture and physical experience in terms of load to tissues over time.

Enhanced Show Notes & Full Transcript

Chapters:
00:04:05 - When you hear the word "posture" what do you think 

00:06:20 - The Dynamic Collective 

00:07:30 - Definitions, is posture a thing, and is good posture a thing? 

00:22:50 - Good Posture? No Posture? Posture Parameters? 

00:30:25 - Loads, Alignment, and posture 

00:41:05 - Consequences of positions vs posture 

00:47:20 - Listener Question sponsored by Wildling 

Books & Articles Mentioned:
The Structure of Scientific Revolutions by Thomas S. Kuhn 

The Rise and Fall of American Posture by David Yosifon & Peter N. Stearns
My Perfect Movement Plan by Katy Bowman

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Made Possible by Our Dynamic Collective of Wonderful Sponsors: 

Movemate, dynamic active standing boards that invite movement and play into your workday, without disrupting your workflow
Smart Playrooms, design and products to keep your kids engaged and active at home
Correct Toes, soft silicone toe spacers that can be worn barefoot or in shoes
Wildling, minimal footwear for toddlers, kids and adults made from natural materials
Venn Design, beautiful floor cushions and ball seats that keep you moving at home or at the office
Peluva, Five-toe minimalist sports shoes ideal for higher impact activities. 

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