The Importance of Neutral Spine
Have you noticed how frequently we instruct you about ‘neutral spine’ when performing your exercises? Neutral spine or neutral posture is a key component of both functional exercise and effective core training. The muscles of the core are closely connected with the postural muscles and alignment. Since neutral posture is such an important element of core training, let’s take a closer look at what it is and why it is so important.
Neutral posture is the proper alignment of the body between postural extremes. In its natural alignment, the spine is not straight. It has curves in the thoracic (upper) and lumbar (lower) regions. There is a slight forward curve in the lumbar region (lordosis), a slight backward curve in the thoracic region (kyphosis) and a slight extension in the tiny cervical vertebra at the top of the spine. In addition, the ears, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles are aligned as if a plumb line was running from the ears down through the torso into the legs and the feet.
In neutral posture, the body is able to function in its strongest, most balanced position. Stress to the joints, muscles, vertebrae and tissue is minimised. Maintaining neutral posture will help decrease the risk of injury and increase the efficiency of movement or exercise.
Working in neutral posture is also a component of a more holistic approach to movement and exercise where the body is viewed as an integrated unit, rather than isolated parts.
When people have difficulty achieving or working in neutral posture, it is often an indication of muscular imbalance. Muscular or postural imbalances are a concern because they can lead to injury and chronic anatomical problems or limit performance. Working out of neutral alignment, may inhibit the recruitment of certain muscles and make the movements more difficult. Most of you feel (and some more than others) that your exercise programs are challenging enough and you don’t want to make them any harder!
So, if you have any other questions regarding neutral spine please don’t hesitate to ask one of the trainers. - Kennedy