STANDING WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION

Thank you all who responded to my first post on Setting a Solid Foundation.  I appreciate your insight and your kind words.  Moving on from standing with your feet hip width apart and feet facing forward, how do I set my weight distribution?

 Many of us have a tendency to have more weight forward on the front part of our feet for a variety of reasons. Examples: 

·      Over flexing the knees-Bending knees too much 

·      Hyperextending knees throwing our pelvis too far forward

·      Heel pain- to take the pressure off the heels

·      Gripping the ground with your toes-toes work so much harder than they should

 The body tries to self-correct by leaning the upper body too far forward or backwards putting joints out of alignment. These positions force our calves and hamstrings to contract to keep us from falling over and both of these corrections contribute to many ailments that can be fixed.  

 Once you have set the proper leg and foot base, now change your weight distribution.  Think of your feet having four corners on each foot with the toes cut off.  Shift your weight more to the back of the center of your heel, unloading the forefoot and distribute the weight as if you have no toes.  Each corner should have 25% of your weight-equally, with toes unloaded.  You should be able to pick up your toes easily without having to counterbalance your body with another body part.  

In addition, straighten your knees slightly if over flexed by pushing quads backward; bend knees slightly, if hyper extended; and relax the toes-not using them to hold you up. (You should be able to lift up your toes easily). Getting the stress out of the toes and front part of your foot will help significantly with foot pain and numbness as well.  

 Create an awareness several times a day to notice what you body habits are and try to make a change in your feet, leg position and your weight distribution.  It is so easy to slip back into our old habits as we usually don’t think about how we hold ourselves. Challenge yourself to be aware of your habits and begin the journey on re-building your new structure to move efficiently! 

 Beginning from the ground up, the next topic will cover your pelvis position related to the above. I’d love feedback from you!  Does this description give you a better understanding of your weight distribution?  What other topics would interest you? Have a beautiful day!

 Website: terryroach.com

Trbodymechanics.com

Email: terry@trbodymechanics.com