In this Pilates Video you are going to learn three variations of an Pilates Exercise called the Roll-Up. The exercise focuses on your straight abdominal muscles / your rectus abdominis and a small bit on lower and mid back mobility.
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Keep your core muscles, your TVA (Transverse Abdominis) slightly engaged throughout to make these exercises safer for your lower back. Always consult a GP / physician before starting a new exercises regime, especially if you haven’t exercised for a long time on a regular basis.
(1) Pilates Roll-Up (option 1 – arms stretched out in front of you)
Sit with your legs straight stretched out in front of you and aim to straighten your back as much as possible, keep your shoulders and neck relaxed. Breath in to prepare, breath out as you tuck your tailbone under, draw your chin slightly in towards your chest and gradually easy vertebrae by vertebrae onto the mat. Aim for a slow and controlled movement, avoid any rushed or jerky moves to keep it safe for your back. Breath in as you reach cross over your body to lengthen your back and spine. Roll your back in the same controlled way off the mat as you breath out and reach away to your feet to incorporate a hamstring / back of your leg stretch. Repeat up to ten times. This exercise might not be for your if you have any back issues.
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(2) Pilates Roll-Up (option 2 – arms crisscrossed in front of chest)
Same as above, crisscross your arms in front of your chest to intensify the movement. Still stretch your whole body out as your hands and fingers reach away for a moment.
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(3) Pilates Roll-Up (option 3 – arms / hands stretch away to the ceiling )
Same as above, stretch your arms / fingers away towards the ceiling, your palms are facing towards each other. This intensives the movement further and requires more control.
Same as above, just crisscross your arms in front of your chest to intensify the movement..
Let me know how you get on and e-mail or facebook me your questions, comments or feedback.
Thank you
_ Martin