I frequently engage in discussions with clients about their clothing choices as part of their rehabilitation program. It might seem a bit unconventional, considering my role as an exercise instructor rather than a fashion expert. However, I genuinely believe that the clothes you wear regularly can significantly impact the way your body functions.
Skinny Jeans: Affected Areas: Knees, Hips, Circulation, Abdominal/Core Function
While skinny jeans may look great, have you ever found yourself stuck halfway down, struggling to pick something up because your knees and hips won’t cooperate? The tightness can impede circulation, and a snug mid-section can restrict your body’s ability to move freely and function optimally. For those with pelvic floor or core issues, squeezing into tight jeans is akin to compressing the middle, hindering core function.
Skirts: Affected Areas: Core/Abdominals, Pelvic Alignment, Natural Gait
Not all skirts are the same, but a reasonably fitted one that sits just above the knee when you’re seated often leads to automatically squeezing your knees together or crossing your legs. This may be seen as lady-like, but it can restrict your range of movement and alter your leg positioning. Tight-fitting skirts around the waist and thighs make it challenging to maintain an ideal stride length when walking, affecting your natural gait and, potentially, pelvic floor function.
As a side note, for parents of girls: the choice between trousers and skirts for school attire can influence early cultural habits.
Underwire Bras: Affected Areas: Breathing, Pectoral Muscles
Consider the area where the tightest part of the bra wraps around—the ribs, precisely where I encourage breathing expansion. Additionally, bras with underwire, while offering support, may hinder the function of suspensory ligaments designed to support breast tissue. This doesn’t mean ditching bras altogether, but the type you choose can impact your breath and breast function.
It’s never too late to alter clothing habits for the sake of posture. Fashion choices, including heeled shoes, off-the-shoulder tops, shoulder bags, belts, scarves, and hoodies, can restrict your body’s ability to move freely. While you don’t need to live in lycra like I do, consider the impact of your clothing choices on your body, especially if adjustments are frequent or it doesn’t pass the reach-over-head or full-squat test. It might be harder on your body than you think.