Correcting Posture Increases Lung Capacity

 

Assumption of the upright posture was associated with highly significant increases in total lung capacity, vital capacity, expiratory reserve volume, and residual volume.

- Journal of Applied Physiology

 

Stand Straight. Breath Deeper. Naturally.

Correcting posture helps all organs in your body function optimally. The lungs, in particular, are aided the most by having correct posture.

Why? The answer has to do with the position of the ribcage in relation to the quality of posture.

When you have correct posture the ribcage is positioned in proper alignment at all times.

While breathing, the ribcage raises during the inhalation and falls during the exhalation. When the ribcage raises up, good posture allows maximum volume underneath which enables the lungs to expand fully. This occurs during rest or exertion. As long as your posture is good, tne lungs are given enough room underneath the ribcage to expand fully. This means more oxygen for your entire body.

When you have poor posture the natural position of the ribcage is then tilted forward. This reduces the volume underneath the ribcage which inhibits lung expansion. This means every breath you take, whether resting or exerting, is going to be shallower. The result is less total oxygen for your body which can lead to fatigue.

For the minimal amount of time required in correcting posture, the increase of lung capacity is a major benefit & should be a major motivator.

Robert Gearhart JR., Co-inventor of the BODY-ALINE