Did you know, that looking confident can help you feel confident? One of the best ways to look and feel your best is to stand tall with you head held high.

Unfortunately, because we spend so much time sitting in front of computers, texting, reading and studying these activities draw the neck and shoulders forward creating a ‘hunched’ upper back. This puts strain on the neck and elongates the muscles located between your shoulder blades which diminishes not only the appearance of confidence. It can make the most elegant outfit look frumpy - but also our own sense of feeling good about ourselves.

Antidote: Rowing!

Rowing is the most effective exercise to strengthen the rhomboid and trapezius muscles. Rowing is an extremely varied exercise - you can do it many different ways. It can be carried out without or with device (i.e. elastic band, TRX, rowing machine, dumbbells, bars); sitting, standing or tilt strain, two-handed, symmetrical, or even in turns.

Whichever you choose, the most important thing is to bring the scapula together towards your spine. Bring the shoulder blades as close together as you can. This is the way to strengthen those muscles. When you relax the muscles, let your scapula drift slowly apart. Do 3 sets of 10 repetitions with a 20 second break between each set.

Include rowing in your weekly training program! When done in the aerial hammock rowing exercise is especially effective.

Check out our short tutorial video, and give a try in aerial yoga class at Floating Fitness on Sunday, 3-4pm.