OUTSMART "Sitting Sickness"

DO YOU SPEND most of your day sitting at a desk, behind the wheel or at a table? Millions of us doand our hip flexors (the muscles in the front of the hips and thighs) suffer as a result, says fitness pro Jessica Smith, creator of the online platform JessicaSmith.Fitness.

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"Most of us have weak, tight or shortened hip flexors," says Smith.

These muscles are important for the position and alignment of the pelvis, which affect the whole body. Hip flexor strength also influences posture and it can help ward off lower-back pain.

"But sitting a lot throughout the day weakens and shortens hip flexor muscles," Smith explains.

That's why it's key to give these muscles the attention and care they need.

To assess your hip flexor strength, try the test at right.

THE TEST

How to Do It

Stand with the left side of your body next to a wall with your feet hip-width apart and your left hand placed gently against the wall for support.