Joseph Pilates developed his system of exercises as a means of strengthening the center of the body to improve overall health. Classical Pilates teachers refer to five of his exercises as the abdominal series. If you only have 10 minutes, do this series, recommends master Pilates teacher Romana Kryzanowska, author of "The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning: Introduction to the Core Exercises." Talk to your doctor about choosing an appropriate exercise program for you.
Single Leg Stretch
This beginner exercise stretches your lower back and lengthens your leg muscles, according to Kryzanowska. Lie on your back with your knees tucked against your chest. Draw your belly in, and flatten your spine against the floor. Place both hands on your right knee, and press your left leg out at a 45-degree angle. Switch your legs back and forth for 10 kicks on both legs. Pull the bent knee in deeply, and extend your other leg fully.
Double Leg Stretch
The double leg stretch strengthens what Joseph Pilates referred to as the powerhouse, the center of your body, as well as your legs. Lie on your back with your knees tucked against your chest. Place both hands lightly on your shins. Inhale as you raise your arms back by your ears. Simultaneously extend your legs at a 45-degree angle. Exhale as you tuck your knees in and sweep your arms out to the sides and in to your knees. Move as if you are pushing water with your arms. Repeat this exercise five times.
Single Straight Leg Stretch
This intermediate exercise works your powerhouse more deeply, while stretching your legs. Lie on your back with your knees tucked against your chest. Extend one leg toward the ceiling, and grab as close to your ankle as possible. Extend your other leg forward, about 12 inches above the floor. Pull the higher leg toward you in two tiny pulses, and then switch your legs. Repeat this exercise 10 times on each leg.
Double Straight Leg Stretch
Begin the double straight leg stretch on your back with your legs pressed together and extended toward the ceiling. Place your hands behind your head with your elbows wide. Flatten your spine to the floor. Lower both legs about 12 inches. Do not allow your back to arch off the floor. Exhale as you pull your belly in and raise both legs to upright. Repeat this exercise five times, increasing the range of your leg movement by 2 to3 inches with each repetition.
Crisscross
This exercise helps eliminate love handles by stretching and strengthening your waistline, according to Kryzanowska. Lie on your back with your knees tucked against your chest. Bring your hands behind your head with your elbows wide. Flatten your spine against the floor and draw your belly in. Extend your right leg out at a 45-degree angle. Twist your torso to the left, slowly peeling your shoulder blade off the floor. Inhale and then exhale as you switch your legs and your torso twists. Repeat this exercise 10 times to both sides.
References
- "Return to Life Through Contrology"; Joseph H. Pilates; 1945
- "The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning: Introduction to the Core Exercises"; Romana Kryzanowska, et al.; 1999
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