Extension is a key component to keeping the spine and, thus, ourselves healthy. The movement is not given due credence. The muscles that induce the action cannot be viewed directly. Modern societal trends contribute to a decrease in spinal extensibility. The need for developing extension centers around the effects of gravity on the body, overall. ‘
The bi-pedal position that humans exhibit depends upon spinal extension. The actions of the extensor muscles enable the human body to stand and balance on two feet. Spinal extension is integral to existence as a human. The ability to stand up . . . straight . . to reach up and over allows humans to more easily manipulate their environment . . . their surroundings.
Generally, people do not realize the importance of spinal extension. People, as a group, are a sight oriented. To see something is to deem it as important to existence. The behind the scene activity of the back allows for ease of neglecting the criticality of the area. Looking in the mirror only provides a limited view of the body. The front looks good so we feel good, period.
The backside is neglected because direct perception is difficult for that area. Most exercise programs do not adequately address the back, thereby leading to compromise of the strength and resiliency of the spine. For exercise to be of benefit mandates that holistic activity be engaged. All aspect of spinal integrity must be addressed. Spinal extension, does not exist in a vacuum but, without it human existence would not be possible.
Society is losing the viability of spinal extension due to minimally engaging in activity. The majority of society labors in situations that demand minimal physical activity. This does not give sufficient stress to the structures that hold the body together. Many people sit for the majority of their day. The musculature responsible for spinal extension become lax and lengthened. Posture is sub-optimal and bodily health can diminish.
Gravity and inactivity are co-conspirators that function to compromise spinal extension. Yet gravity and activity, when utilized in tandem, serve to maintain spinal extension and resiliency. The body is designed to move and must fully engage in activity on a daily basis. Spinal extension, in particular, must be approached, developed and maintained.
The main Spinal Extension movements are supine and standing backbend. Weight lifters will do some type of barbell squat or deadlift movement. There are other weight movements that one can do for improving spinal extension. Progress the extension movements ‘slowly’. These muscle can be made stronger but the spine is a sensitive area and can be overtrained.
spinal exten
The The force of gravity is can compromise spinal health but, can aid in enhancing spinal extension
Standing spinal extension is assisted by gravity and resisted by bodily structures.
Ab-Sutra Wellness and Fitness 