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Correct shoulder/scapula placement help
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I was a powerlifter for quite a few years, so I know about using intra-abdominal pressure to help stabilise the core when engaging in heavy lifting
As for diaphram constriction, it really depends on the type of corset. I prefer cupped rib styles, which literally only cinch in at the waist and cup both the ribcage and hips. They actually don’t impede my normal breathing at all.
Other people prefer to use more conical shaped corsets which can, over many years, change the shape of the floating ribs to a small degree but it isn’t a lasting change as they revert back to their true shape after time. And they can reduce the ability to belly breathe, which is why it’s not recommended to corset if you have a cold etc. But a lot of that comes down to research and responsible use of a corset.
Personally, I use corsets for a variety of reasons, the *least* of them being aesthetics.
And I never said that wearing a corset 24/7 was an ideal for anyone to aim for, I don’t think it’s a decision to be taken lightly and it *is* a form of body modification that requires a lot of information and due diligence to do safely.
There’s a lot of misinformation out there about corsets and I did a lot of research on before I ever even considered investing in one. Perhaps you could read up on some of the positives of corsetting (including the benefits of corsetting for things like anxiety, eating disorders, MtF transitioning and so on) instead of condemning the whole thing without actually understanding the benefits it can provide.
Interestingly, corsets have actually helped me learn belly breathing because I can feel what it’s supposed to feel like. They have also helped me with my bulimic tendencies and anxiety as well as improving my posture a lot in a short period of time (I was really surprised).
It’s also helped to teach my what it feels like to sit upright and actually worked both my abs and back muscles simply by sitting correctly- I tend to wear it primarily when using the computer because it helps to prevent me switching off my awareness and slouching. And when I take it off I notice I sit up more when driving to the point that I have to adjust my seat.
I also find I can sit upright on things like backless benches without so much discomfort and slouching since using my corsets (that is, I am sitting more upright *without* wearing my corset) so somehow it’s helping to make me aware of the sensation of proper posture and… activating? awakening? the muscles needed to do so. I’m not exactly sure what the mechanism is behind it, but that is the result, which is a good thing imho.
If you have any interest in the experiences of those who practice waist training and tight lacing then I suggest checking out Lucy’s Corsetry as she takes a very science based approach to things and is a pretty amazing person in general. -
And that’s the last I am going to discuss the topic here- Lucy at Bishonenrancher is a much better source of information for anyone who is curious about corsets and the pro’s and con’s of responsible corset wearing, waist training and/or tightlacing (her piece on how corsets can help heal is great reading).
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I’ve had way more damage and injury from poling than from my corset. poling has given me sprained wrist, sprained ankle, torn hamstring, dislocated ribs, pulled rhomboids, torn knee ligament, bruises, bleeding, cuts, scrapes, you name it. And thats with me being smart and careful with pole. I’ve never had any issues with breathing or anything from a corset. but there is a method to wearing them and some risk involved. I just dont think it is quite as terrible as one may think. Wearing one constantly will effect core strenghth. but that’s alot of corset time to do that kind of damage and if you’re like me, you probably work out everyday and do corework daily without your corset on. I have people tell me I dont respect myself because I pole dance and that is oppresive to women. People also tell me the same about wearing a corset: I am wearing something used to oppress women, or why dont you just lose weight, you dont love yourself if you do that. I would say both are risky and there is a smart way to things and a not so smart way. they are not for everybody. but no, I really dont have problems breathing with mine on but i also just dont slap on a cheap ill made corset and cinch it down as tight as it will go. it doesnt work that way.I have also found a corset to be helpful with belly breathing technique and have used it for singing. so I’m guessing the breathing thing can really depend on what style you wear and how you cinch it. on the otherhand, I have worn the modern flexible corsets and found it downright restricitve , uncomfortable, and even painful. so I really dont recommend the latex ones. a well made steel boned made for your body is much much more comfortable even though it doesnt sound like it. and yes, it is body modification. much like tattooing, piercing, implants, tongue forking, what have you.
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I didn’t mean to start anything if I did… Like I said live and let live, to each their own. It’s not my thing, but I understand why some people are into it, just like any body modification! Just like pole isn’t for some people. You guys seem really knowledgable on the subject so that’s great… I’m really just fearful of these teens I see hurting themselves to look like a Kardashian. I think that’s where my gut reaction against it comes from.
I will say though that breathing during pregnancy was awful. It was probably the most uncomfortable part. I often felt like I was drowning or having a panic attack. It’s hard to explain, but I was constantly gasping for air. That’s not really relevant, just a fun little thing I thought I’d add. Joys of motherhood.
But anyway, hope I’m not fanning any flames. You all are great. That is all.
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Allyson, you are a very sweet person and I know you are not the kind of person to put anyone down. I have nothing but love for you
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I genuinely hope i didn’t come off as “condemning” corseting and tried to make a point of mentioning
1. Do what you want, I have tattoos, gauged ears, and had many a piercing. All of which have risks and all of which have been fine
2. If not worn constantly it’s likely fine
3. I don’t agree with what people think about things that “oppress” women, so again, do what you want. Like Phoenix said, some people find pole dancing as oppressive to women and clearly we are all in the camp of not paying any mind to that thought process
4. I totally could see corseting having some psychological and emotional benefits
So please don’t think I’m “condemning” corseting. As acknowledged above it just is a form of body modification and does come with risks, mostly when wearing the corset constantly which it doesn’t sound like you ladies do, but girls who get into waist training often don’t educated themselves on that aspect of it so it’s worth mentioning cuz who knows who will read this thread, and maybe it will prompt them to research further. I do stick by the breathing thing though, people who don’t even wear corsets often have restricted/not optimal breathing their whole lives and don’t know it. A style that allows room for the ribs but cinched at the waist constricts diaphragm expansion while allowing for more chest based breathing. Again, something that’s more of a concern when corsets are worn constantly which, again, you ladies are educated on and don’t do. Just wanted to point out that the possible benefits of corseting wer mentioned in my first post, just in case they were missed. Most of those points we actually agree on. Not trying to start trouble, just putting out some ideas. Most of the (recent) corset studies are done on SCI patients and done with participants who wear the corsets constantly so we genuinely don’t have solid data (scientifically speaking) about corseting in healthy individuals one way or the other. Young girls are just getting super into crazy body mods without knowing the associated risks (eg the Kylie Jenner challenge where girls were trying to plump their lips via suction but would use glass bottles/shot glasses because they didn’t research and ended up with enormous gashes in thee face) -
Sorry for the delay in replying, I’ve been super busy with end of school parties and graduation.
I was only offering my help, offering the solutions and knowledge I have of body mechanics and having dealt with my own core issues and knowing what has worked for me and others. As always, feel free to take of leave my suggestions.
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