The Myth of 'Good' and 'Bad' Posture: What Science Really Says
“Sit up straight!” – it’s something we’ve all heard at some point. Whether from a parent, a teacher, or even our own inner critic, the message is the same: good posture means sitting bolt upright, and bad posture means slouching. But is that really true?
In recent years, research has challenged this black-and-white view of posture. At Body Zest, we see people every day who are experiencing pain, tension, or stiffness—and often, they’re doing everything they’ve been told is ‘right’ when it comes to posture. So what’s going on?
There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Posture
The idea of one perfect way to sit or stand simply doesn’t hold up anymore. Bodies are different. What feels natural and sustainable for one person might feel forced and uncomfortable for another.
In fact, trying too hard to maintain textbook-perfect posture can actually lead to more tension. Holding your shoulders back and spine upright all day takes effort—and muscles that never get to relax will eventually get sore.
Stillness Is the Problem, Not Slouching
It turns out the real problem isn’t slouching—it’s staying in any position for too long.
Our bodies are designed to move. We’re meant to shift, bend, stretch, twist, and change positions frequently. It’s not the slouch that causes pain—it’s the fact that we stay stuck in that slouch for hours without moving.
Whether you’re sitting straight or hunched over a screen, being static puts load on certain muscles and joints. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, stiffness, and even repetitive strain injuries.
Posture Variety is the New Perfect Posture
Instead of aiming for a fixed ideal, think about building postural variety into your day:
Change your position every 20–30 minutes
Stand up and stretch regularly
Use different chairs or workspaces if you can
Alternate between sitting, standing, and walking when working
This approach is more realistic—and much kinder to your body.
How We Help at Body Zest
Our osteopaths and sports therapists don’t just treat pain—we look at how you move. If your posture is contributing to discomfort, we help you:
✔️ Identify movement habits that might be causing strain
✔️ Improve joint and muscle flexibility so you can move more freely
✔️ Retrain your nervous system to feel safe in a wider range of positions
✔️ Build strength where you need it, and mobility where you’ve lost it
Posture is personal. We’re here to help you find what works for your body—not just what a diagram says you should look like.
Final Thoughts
The myth of good and bad posture is slowly being replaced by a more nuanced, evidence-based approach—one that prioritises movement over perfection.
So next time you find yourself slouching, don’t panic. Just move. Stretch. Shift. Your body will thank you for it.
If you’re dealing with postural pain or tension, our team at Body Zest can help you move better, feel better, and leave those outdated posture rules behind.