How to Get a Better Body Right Now

Remember when your mom told you to stand up straight and stop slouching? Well, she was absolutely right. Unfortunately over time, if you’re not paying attention, you can begin to develop bad postural habits. Some of the worst culprits are sitting hunched over a computer, staring down at your Smartphone or just forgetting to sit straight up while sitting down.

As a personal trainer I’ve trained people of all shapes, sizes, ages and physical abilities, and I can tell you the fastest way to look in shape immediately is by improving your posture. It can take you from having a 24-inch waistline to having a 22-inch waistline, make you appear taller and make your clothes fit better.

Here are a few simple adjustments to your posture that will make you look more fit immediately.

Step one: Check your posture:

Stand in front of a long mirror to see where your posture is right now. Where are your shoulders? Are you arching your back? Are your abs engaged or relaxed?

Now, make the following adjustments:

• Position feet so that they are parallel and symmetrical
• Keep your knees unlocked so that you’re not pushing your hips forward which pushes your butt back (and yes, it makes it look bigger)
• Tuck in your lower abs (think of trying to fit in to some tight jeans)
• Place your hands to the side of the body
• Pull your shoulders back and down

So, how do you look? Compare this posture to the posture you had before. Initially this may feel very weird and unnatural, but with practice and awareness you'll get used to it and be surprised what a big difference it makes in your appearance. Not to mention the health benefits to your back, neck, spine, hips and knees.

Now here are three simple exercises that can help you improve your posture.

Thin Tummies: Stand with your back against the wall with your feet 2-3 inches away from the wall, Keep your knees soft and both hands to the side of your body. Tightly pull your belly button towards your spine and hold it for a count of 10. Count out loud so that you don’t hold your breath. Repeat 10 times. In less than two minutes you can strengthen your core and become more aware of tucking your abs in—a critical part of better posture.

Standing Flutters: Stand facing a mirror with your feet parallel and symmetrical, with both knees unlocked. Keep your hands to the side of your body, and your abs tucked in. Now, bring your shoulders back and squeeze your shoulder blades together. When you feel your back engaged hold this for a count of 5. Repeat this motion 10 times holding each one for a count of 5. In less than a minute this exercise will help you become more aware of your back muscles that are responsible for keeping your shoulders back and your spine straight.

Sit & Squeeze: Sit on a chair with both feet flat on the floor shoulder width apart, place both hands on your lap and keep your back straight without leaning back. Tuck your abs in first, then squeeze your glutes together as tight as you can, then bring your shoulders back. Now hold all three for a count of 5. Slowly relax then repeat 10 times. Remember, abs tucked, squeeze cheeks, shoulders back. Just one minute can improve and strengthen every part of your body responsible for better posture.

Now, by no means am I suggesting these quick fixes replace a real exercise regimen, but in less than five minutes you can not only look much better, but you can also make your mom proud.

Abelardo Larancuent is a local personal trainer and fitness expert and is currently working on a book. Questions? email: [email protected]