Learn to: Stabilize in order to Stretch and then Strengthen
True Core Support
Stabilizing the hips is achieved by stretching the inner thighs in opposite directions.
Release low back strain. Increase hip mobility. Develop deep support.
Releasing hip flexors allows access to deep muscles which directly support the lower spine.
Stabilizing sit bones while simultaneously reaching heels creates a dynamic two-way hamstring stretch.
Release tight calf muscles. Increase facility of feet.
Lengthen the spine in the opposite direction of a long, lean leg line.
Note how the spring resistance helps to support the stretch.
Get More Grounded
Elongation
Stabilizing the hips with the connection to the legs and feet enables the waistline to extend and the spine to side bend.
Opening spaces between the ribs increases breath capacity, enhances vitality.
Stabilizing the line of hip, leg, and foot creates the reach for the ribcage to be able to rotate.
Access hard-to-tone areas: love handles and saddlebags.
Strengthen muscles that support the lower back and lower spine.
Stabilization with rotation increases spinal mobility.
Rotation
Suspension
Stabilization of the shoulder blades supports the spine in suspension.
The spine in turn supports a fully extended leg line.
Stabilization also enhances co-ordination, improves agility, and develops better balance.
No bones about it:
Stretching feels good in itself. However, in learning to stretch through stabilization, rather than simply releasing tightness and tension, connections are forged in the body which lead to strengthening.
Supporting the spine is serious business!
Each of these stretches is most efficiently and effectively performed with the attentive support of one of our exceptional teachers.
Backbone and Wingspan Pilates Studio; Pilates Chelsea, Pilates Midtown Manhattan, New York City, NY
Offering Pre and Post Natal Pilates, Gyrotonic, CranioSacral, Resistance Band Training, and Pilates
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