Pilates Students' Manual Shapes Of The Spine - Flexion
May 9, 2025
Discover the crucial role of spinal flexion in Pilates, exploring its significance and how it forms a C-curve in the spine. Learn about the muscle engagement necessary for effective execution and the various impacts of different loads during exercises. This episode demystifies spinal flexion, making it less intimidating and more accessible for practitioners. Tune in for insights that will enhance your Pilates practice and deepen your understanding of movement!
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What Spinal Flexion Is
- Spinal flexion is the C-curve or forward-bend of the spine often called a round back.
- It occurs in the sagittal plane, allowing forward and backward bending of the spine.
Flexion Is Ubiquitous In Pilates
- Spinal flexion appears in many Pilates exercises across mat and reformer work.
- Olivia lists numerous moves showing flexion is arguably the most common Pilates spine shape.
Rectus Abdominis Drives Flexion
- Rectus abdominis is the primary mover for spinal flexion due to its long vertical attachments.
- Drawing the pelvis and rib cage together shortens this muscle and creates the rounded shape.
