Pilates on Fifth Video Podcast

Rocking is a classical Pilates exercise that challenges spinal flexibility in extension.  This exercise should be avoided by those who experience knee pain or back pain — or those who can’t reach their ankles to start.  Be careful not to use the head and neck to start the movement.  Instead, use the force of the exhale as the hands pull the feet to rock forward, and the force of the inhale as the spine extends and the feet press into the hands to come up. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.

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Jack Knife is a classical Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominal muscles and challenges the core. Jack Knife builds on the Roll Over by adding extension of the legs to the ceiling, and maintaining the position of the legs as high as possible above the torso while rolling down to the starting position. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.

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The Twist is a Classical Pilates exercise that challenges core strength and shoulder stability. The abdominal muscles work to move the spine through flexion, extension, lateral flexion and rotation to create flatter abs and a flexible spine. Make sure you are comfortable with the Side Bend exercise before attempting the Twist! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.

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Swan Dive Rock and Catch is a variation of the original Pilates exercises Swan Dive. This exercise strengthens the spinal and hip extensors, which helps improve posture and tighten the butt! Make sure to maintain an even curve in the spine throughout the exercise — and don’t allow the head to move up and down! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.

 

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The Roll Over is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominal muscles and increases flexibility of the spine.  When performing the Roll Over, be careful not to use momentum to roll onto you upper back and be careful not to roll onto your neck.  Instead, use the strength of your abdominal muscles to peel the spine off the mat one vertebrae at a time and stop when the weight is between the shoulder blades. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.

 

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