From “tech neck” to rounded shoulders, bad posture has officially gone viral. With the hashtag #posture racking up nearly 30 million views on TikTok, social feeds are now flooded with exercises promising to fix slouching, neck humps and so-called “prawn posture.” Tapping into the trend, Lidl has unveiled a budget-friendly Posture Trainer (£7.99), aiming to help Brits straighten up this January without breaking the bank.
To cut through the noise of viral posture hacks, Lidl has partnered with Dr Rebekah Jade, a movement health and medicine specialist, to explain what posture really is, which TikTok exercises are worth trying, and how tools like posture trainers can support healthier alignment.
What Is Posture – and Why Are Brits Obsessed With Fixing It?
According to Dr Rebekah Jade, posture isn’t about standing perfectly still like a statue.
“Posture is all about how your body holds itself in space,” she explains. “There’s no single ‘perfect’ posture, but ideal posture allows muscles to work efficiently around the joints, helping you breathe fully, move freely and function comfortably.”
So why are posture problems so common in modern Britain? Dr Rebekah points to lifestyle changes.
“Our ancestors moved with far more variety,” she says.“Today, many of us move from sitting in the car to sitting on the train, then sitting at a desk and finally on the sofa. Excessive screen time, lack of movement and stress create the perfect storm for posture issues.”
It’s no surprise, then, that people are searching for quick fixes online — even if not all of them actually work.
TikTok Posture Hacks: Which Ones Actually Help?
Dr Rebekah Jade reviewed some of TikTok’s most popular posture exercises, separating helpful habits from hype.
Tummy Time – (4/5)
Originally designed for babies, “tummy time” turns out to be surprisingly effective for adults too.
“It strengthens the back muscles, opens the chest and stretches the upper body,” Dr Rebekah says. “It’s an easy counter-position and can even be done while watching TV.”
Kissing the Ceiling – (3/5)
This neck extension exercise can improve mobility, especially when combined with opening the chest and pulling the shoulders back. However, Dr Rebekah warns it won’t magically erase a neck hump.
“That’s usually related to bone structure, fat pads or muscular tension — genetics play a big role.”
‘Model Posture’ Stretch – (3/5)
While this move mobilises the shoulders and upper back, it’s not a silver bullet.
“Posture improvement should focus on how the body moves and feels, not just how it looks.”
Water Bottle Trick – (2/5)
Lying on a bottle between the shoulder blades creates some chest opening, but the benefits are limited.
“A foam roller or even a rolled towel does the job just as well,” Dr Rebekah says.
Wall Angels – (1/5)
Despite their popularity, wall angels score poorly.
“They flatten the spine’s natural curve and can even provoke shoulder pain in some people,” she explains.
Expert Tips for Better Posture That Actually Lasts
While viral exercises can help raise awareness, Dr Rebekah says lasting posture improvement comes from habits, not hacks.
Keep moving regularly
“Change position every 30–45 minutes,” she advises. “Stand, twist, reach or walk — movement variety matters more than holding one ‘perfect’ posture.”
Use tools as reminders, not crutches
Devices like Lidl’s Posture Trainer can help people notice when they slump.
“Wearing it for 20–30 minutes during work or household tasks can increase awareness,” says Dr Rebekah. “Think of it as a learning tool, not a permanent fix.”
Strengthen the right muscles
Upper-back and shoulder muscles need endurance to support better alignment. Rowing movements and reverse arm raises can make posture improvements feel more natural over time.
Breathe better
Shallow chest breathing encourages forward-head posture.
“Practise abdominal breathing — let your belly expand as you inhale, not just your chest.”
Don’t stress about slouching
“Worrying about ‘bad posture’ creates more tension,” Dr Rebekah adds. “Check in with your body to notice and adjust, not criticise.”
Lidl’s £7.99 Posture Trainer: Affordable Support for Everyday Alignment
For anyone whose posture is becoming a literal pain in the neck, Lidl’s Posture Trainer (£7.99) is available in stores now, while stocks last. With adjustable straps and two size options, it’s designed to gently remind wearers to correct their alignment during everyday activities — without the premium price tag seen elsewhere.
You can find out more about Lidl’s latest health and lifestyle products at Lidl UK
