Pilates Highlights

Learn how to do Pilates Lower and Lift with the Small Ball. Lower and Lift with the Small Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise “Lower and Lift” on the barrels. This exercise targets the lower fibers of the abdominal muscles to tone and tighten while protecting the lower back. The instability of the ball further challenges the core stabilizers so you’ll get a strong core AND flat abs!

Roll Up with the Mini Body Bar is a variation on the original Pilates exercise “Roll Up.” Using the Mini Body Bar can help individuals with tight lower backs roll up sequentially and smoothly through the spine, although its use does require more shoulder girdle stability. Mini Body Bars come in a range of weights, and we are using a 4 pound bar. This exercise tones and strengthens the abdominal muscles, increases flexibility of the spine and strengthens the shoulder girdle stabilizers.

Toe Taps with the Foam Roller is a great preparation for all original Pilates exercises as it strengthens the core and flattens the abdominal muscles. Changing the place of the hands on the floor can make it easier or harder, so be sure to challenge yourself! Keep the abdominal muscles drawn in for maximum tummy flattening benefit..

Side Bends on the Ball is a variation on the original Pilates mat exercise Side Bends. This version is easier on the shoulder girdle, but because the ball adds instability, the core is challenged greatly here! Be sure to use the strength of your legs to help stabilize your torso and Side Bends on the Ball tones all the muscles of the body.

Seated Circles on the Stability Ball targets the deep stabilizers of the lumbar spine and activates the core. Range of motion can be modified to make it easier or a bit more challenging according to your clients’ needs.

Plank Leg Lifts on the Ball prepare the core stabilizers for original Pilates mat exercises such as Leg Pull Front and Push Up. By varying the position of the ball, you can make the exercise easier (if the ball is under the thighs) or harder (if the ball is under the shins). This exercise strengthens the core, the shoulder stabilizers and arm muscles and tones the muscles of the legs.

Heel Squeeze with the Pilates ring strengthens the gluts and hamstrings to prepare you for original Pilates exercises such as Swan Dive and Double Leg Kick. By pulling the abdominal muscles in while lying on your stomach, you’ll protect your lower back and tone your abs simultaneously. We call this exercise the anti-gravity exercise for the amazing uplifting effects it has on ones’ backside!!

Rolling Like a Ball with Small Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Rolling Like a Ball. Using the ball facilitates proper execution of the exercise and a deeper contraction of the abdominal muscles. You will tone the abs…and have some fun!

In this video, learn how to do Intermediate Pilates positions, such as the planks

Shoulder Bridge with the Pilates Ring is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Shoulder Bridge. This version targets the inner thighs more, so you will sculpt both the backs of your legs (hamstrings and gluteus maximus) and the inner thighs. As always, don't forget to hold your abs in too!

Breast Stroke on the Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Breast Stroke. Performing this exercise on the ball requires more core stability and balance than the mat version, so be careful not to push into the ball with your abdominal muscles to find your balance!

Learn how to do Froggies in the elbow scoop position is a variation of original Pilates reformer and barrel exercises. The key to success in this position is not allowing your body to relax! Be sure to press your elbows into your mat and lengthen your spine away from your sacrum while hollowing out your abs! You'll tone and flatten your abs, strengthen your core and sculpt leg muscles.

Banana Split: The Banana Split is a combination of the original Pilates exercises Side Lying Scissors (usually performed on the barrels) and Side Leg Lift Series #3, which we call the banana! This exercise tones and strengthens the abdominal muscles, especially the obliques, and sculpts long, lean legs! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos)and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).

Pilates instructor, Dori Markakos, shows the basic positions of Advanced Pilates, such as the genie with a ball

Pilates instructor, Dori Markakos, shows the basic positions of Advanced Pilates, such as the side bend leg lift with a curl