The Elephant Stretch on the Pilates Reformer
Elephant Stretch = Pilates Hamstring Stretch The elephant stretch appears to be a very simple forward bend while the legs remain at a straight 90 degree angle. This position allows for the stretching of the hamstrings to occur as well as the release of tension in the lower back....
Relieving tight hamstrings using the “Jackknife” on a Reformer.
The photographs below shows two phases of moving into a Pilates Reformer move called "The Jackknife". This is a wonderful exercise that is considered a "Counter stretch" for tight hamstrings as well as tightness in the lower back that increases flexibility. It is generally used...
What is causing those tight hamstrings?
Tight hamstrings in the back of the legs most commonly originate from overuse and tightening of the hip flexors in the front of the thigh. The tight hip flexors pull the pelvis which in turn leaves the pelvis in a slight tilt. Further Complications In response to...
Pilates Tendon Stretch for Tight Hamstrings
On the Pilates Reformer there is a famous sequence of exercises called the "Tendon Stretch". For the purposes of this blog I am discussing only the first move of the series which can be isolated out to relieve tight hamstrings. How to Begin You begin the move...
Stretching the Hamstrings on a Pilates Reformer
The most famous stretch for tight hamstrings on the Pilates reformer is called "Feet in Straps". This is a very pleasurable stretch and exercise that involves putting your feet through the loop handles of the reformer ropes and letting the resistance of the tight ropes pull and...
Introducing The Abdominal Circle!
I wanted to introduce the abdominal circle as another way to assist people in developing abdominal and mid-section muscle tone that is useful in all forms of exercise and movement. The abdominal circle is used to strengthen the internal and external oblique muscles by rotating...
A Chair That Supports The Body During Abdominal Strengthening Exercises!
In recent years the "Abdominal Rocket Chair" was developed in order to support peoples head, neck, shoulders and backs in an ergonomic position so they could perform basic abdominal strengthening moves without strain. It has turned out to be extremely helpful for clients new to...
Running, biking and swimming motions on the Pilates Arc
Leaving the head, neck and shoulders comfortably on the mat, the Pilates foam arc can be slipped under the torso and pelvis leaving the legs free to move in motions mimicking running, biking and swimming without any impact on the hips, knees, or ankles. This...
What is the Pilates Arc?
The Pilates Arc is a modern rendition of the traditional Pilates "Spinal corrector" and is made of lightweight black foam. This arc can be placed on a mat or on the reformer to support the body in positions that would otherwise be extremely challenging for...
What can Pilates do for you?
Pilates can: Improve the tone and fitness of your whole body! Release stress, soreness and pain Enhance natural weight loss Build lean muscles Strengthen abdominal muscles that you never knew you had! Restore, recover and empower a whole new level of physical capacity and health. ...