First Look
Can an innovatively designed shirt help improve your posture in the saddle?
THE ABILITY TO maintain a correct position in the saddle is something we’re all constantly working on, but it’s inevitable that from time to time your ability to maintain this perfectly balanced posture is compromised. Let’s face it, riding and looking after horses is hard work and often involves physical lifting and carrying. Add to this that if, like me, your full-time job involves sitting at a desk all day working on a computer, this will further challenge your posture when you’re in the saddle. I’m the first to admit my posture isn’t great and, as a result, I can suffer from muscular discomfort in my neck and shoulders. When I heard about the range of products from ActivePosture, I wanted to find out more.
Mirroring your muscles
The unique Posture Shirt 2.0 from ActivePosture is medically approved — it’s inspired by kinesio taping and has been developed by an international team of doctors and physiotherapists. The shirt uses NeuroBands on the back that contain different elasticity levels, naturally mirroring your own muscles. This lines up your back, shoulder and neck joints to give you better overall posture without you realising. I’ve been using the Posture Shirt for a few months and, although it took a little while to get used to wearing it, I feel my posture and position has improved. The fit of the shirt is critical. It’s designed to be a close fit, but it doesn’t hold you in a fixed position and you can still move without restriction. I felt a slight pull across my shoulders, in my upper back and down my shoulder blades — it’s like a gentle reminder to sit up straight. After wearing the top for a little while, I could feel heat in this area too — this is apparently quite normal and is a sign my muscles are activating. Over time, it’s said that your muscles become stronger, so you can maintain correct posture naturally. Although the material of the shirt wicks away moisture and has vented mesh panels, I did get hot wearing the shirt. This meant it’s been washed a lot, but it washes well and dries quickly so it was ready for me to wear each morning. I’ve really felt the benefit of wearing the Posture Shirt 2.0 and highly recommend it. However, it isn’t cheap and justifying the cost may prove tricky. To help you make up your mind, I’ve worked out that over three months, I’ve worn the shirt 80 times — this works out at £1.12 a ride. I’m sure with the right care, this shirt will last for many years.
RRP £89.95 BUY AT activeposture.co.uk