PILATESOLOGY ENCYCLOPEDIA

Down Stretch

LEVEL

Intermediate

 

SETUP

2 springs, Footbar up, Headpiece up

 

Repetitions

3x

 

Goals & Benefits
  • Strengthens hip, glute and hamstrings in extension
  • Breathing exercise focused on expelling stale air from lungs
  • Teaches how to engage Powerhouse in extension
  • Opens chest while connecting arms to center
Tips & Cues
  • Press out & Inhale slowly, exhale slowly and completely on way in, forcing out stale air
  • Anchor toes on mat and heels firmly against shoulder blocks
  • Keep Powerhouse lifted to protect lower back
  • Rotate bottom of pelvis toward footbar throughout to encourage hip extension