Go ahead, admit it. There are times when you lean over on to the console and drive only with your left hand or lean on the window sill and drive with your right. It’s comfy, easy and, lazy. You probably notice, however, that you can only do this for a short time before you have to switch arms or hold on to the steering wheel with both hands, which is what you should be doing in the first place.
All driving instructors and safety panels recommend driving with both hands on the wheel; either in the 10 and 2 or 9 and 3 positions. I’m recommending you keep both hands on the wheel to help you reduce tension and pain in your shoulders. To exemplify the unnecessary stress you put on one of your shoulders, lift your arm up in front of you, like you’re going to grab on to the steering wheel. Hold your arm there for 60 seconds and notice how tight your shoulder becomes. This closely resembles what you do to yourself driving with one hand over long periods of time. Not only is it less safe than with two hands, it causes muscle tightness and pain that you can easily avoid.
It’s stressful enough driving around in L.A. traffic, so minimize the stress by placing both hands on the wheel and relaxing your shoulders, so only your thumb and forefinger are doing the work of holding on. Creating a state of physical relaxation will help you deal with the traffic and the other stresses you may be facing in your life.
Have questions about health and fitness? Visit www.bengriffesdc.com or email me at yourhealthmyconcern@gmail.com