The Power of Pilates

Teaser I with Bent Knees: Lie on your back with knees bent in toward your chest; stretching your arms long overhead, keep them hovering a few inches off the mat to prevent your lower back from arching or your ribs from flaring. Inhale and raise your arms straight up. Curl your chin toward your chest, then exhale as you press your navel deep in toward your spine and peel your upper body off the mat. Reach toward your toes and extend your legs at a 45-degree angle, balancing on your tailbone so your body forms a V. If you can’t straighten your legs, leave them slightly bent and open in a diamond shape. Hold the position for 2 counts, drawing in your abs to maintain balance. ➨ Inhale, then exhale as you pull your navel in toward your spine; slowly, and with control, uncurl your spine back toward the mat. Return to the starting position by bending the knees again toward the chest as your arms reach overhead. Repeat 3 times.