Background <p>Interest and scientific discussion regarding the sagittal alignment and sagittal balance of the human spine has increased significantly in recent years. Supported by technical progress, newer imaging methods and artificial intelligence (AI)-supported measurement systems are evolving, but very accurate findings from previous generations are increasingly being forgotten.</p> Objective <p>This work is intended to provide an overview of human statics and posture and to highlight the still valid descriptions of Dr. Gottfried Gutmann.</p> Materials and methods <p>The current literature on the topic is summarized and compared with Gutmann’s descriptions.</p> Results <p>Basic principles of human statics and posture must be well considered and are fundamental for the entire functional view in manual medicine.</p> Conclusion <p>Recently published measurement methods and results should be compared with Gutmann’s pre-existing, detailed considerations. His empirical and descriptive observations, including functional interactions with adjacent joints, should be taken into account in modern scientific studies.</p>