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We all remember how to ride a bike!
Most of us have come to understand the importance of working on memory retention as we grow older; however, the importance of working on muscle memory is still largely misunderstood. Muscle memory refers to the types of movements which we all perform and which have become familiar to us over a long period of time. There are numerous actions which we all perform on a daily basis that occurs as the result of muscle memory. Walking is one such example. When we are first born we do not have this type of muscle memory because this is not an action we have performed. Our muscles must become accustomed to the actions created by performing these activities. Muscle memory is one reason why it is said that once you learn to ride a bike, you never forget; even if years pass between performing the activity.
The exact way in which muscle memory takes places is still largely unknown; however, it is believed that when we are learning a new skill new neural pathways are built in the brain which eventually forms muscle memory. As a result, we are later able to perform the same movements without giving it any conscious thought. We do not have to instruct our bodies to perform those actions; they occur unconsciously.
Muscle memory is not only important to many different types of daily activities but it can also be important in the way in which we work and in reducing possible pain and injury. Quite simply, the more often you perform a certain activity, the more likely you will be able to perform it without even thinking about it. One way in which we can benefit from muscle memory is by improving our posture. Many of us tend to use improper posture while at work, slumping over our desks, thrusting our heads forward and rounding our shoulders. All of these positions can place a tremendous amount of stress and strain on our muscles and spine. Over time, such posture can lead to serious health problems.
Ultimately, muscle memory occurs over a period of time by repeating certain movements. The more often the action is performed the more likely it will simply become second nature. By focusing on using improved posture, assuring that our head and shoulders are aligned in a vertical line, can help to provide proper posture through muscle memory. Eventually, sitting correctly at our desks and workstations will simply become second nature and we will not even have to think about it anymore. As a result, the body will be less prone to aches, strains and pain.
