Pilates Exercises To Do At Home

As the Cleveland Clinic explains, Pilates is a type of exercise invented by Joseph Pilates. The objective of Pilates exercise is not to increase muscle size. Instead, it is designed to enhance strength and flexibility. It combines Eastern exercise, such as meditation and calmness, with Western approach, like strength and motion. Although there are numerous DVDs and classes that teach Pilates, many routines can be incorporated into your daily home activities.

Double Leg Stretch

To do the Pilates exercise Double-Leg Stretch, "Fitness" magazine website recommends lying on your back. Hug your knees into your chest, lifting your head, shoulders and neck up from the floor. Point your arms over your head, keeping them close to your ears.
At the same time you lift your arms, point your legs, lifting them about 45 degrees from the floor. Hold this position for one second, then bend your knees, rotate your arms out to your sides, and place your hands to your shins. Repeat this exercise for about a minute.
Be sure to lift the upper body up from the floor and the keep the inner thighs pressed close together with each stretch.

Baby Twist

According to the book "Your Ultimate Pilates Body Challenge," you can incorporate your child into your Pilates exercise routine. While holding your baby, stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
Bend your knees and drop into a semi-squat. Lift your baby out to the front of your body. Twist to the right and left, keeping your waist and oblique muscles activated. Keep your feet flat and anchored to the ground. Although your knees should be soft, prevent them from twisting as you move your baby from side to side.

Spine Stretch

"Fitness" magazine's website says to begin the Spine Stretch by sitting comfortably with your legs outstretched in front of you. Bend your body, reaching your arms toward your toes. Inhale deeply and then sit up straight. As you exhale, reach out over your legs again. Bend your head, neck and shoulders inward, pushing your navel into your spine.
Imagine you are stretching over a beach ball so you do not bend with the waist. Inhale and hold for one second. As you inhale, contract the abdominal muscles even further into the spine, deepening the scooping motion. Inhale and slowly roll your body back to your original seated position. Repeat for a total of two minutes.