

A Closer Look At Footwork
14 snips May 24, 2024
Dive into the world of footwork as you uncover the essential role it plays in Pilates. Discover which muscles are engaged and how different foot positions can enhance your practice. Explore various variations to improve strength and body awareness. It's a must-have exercise for anyone looking to elevate their Pilates routine!
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Footwork Is A Quad-Dominant Movement
- Footwork on the reformer is primarily a quadriceps exercise that straightens and controls the carriage against spring tension.
- The quads do concentric work to press out and eccentric work to resist the carriage closing back in.
Adjust Springs And Breathe With The Movement
- Adjust spring tension and headrest position to match a client's ability and the desired challenge.
- Coordinate breath with movement and choose a breathing pattern that supports the action for better control.
Springs Dictate Load And Muscle Role
- The springs, not the hamstrings, create the closing force so the quads perform the eccentric control as the carriage returns.
- Muscles perform concentric, eccentric, and isometric actions during footwork depending on the phase.