This is the first in the Pilates 5 abs series. The next five exercises in the mat repertoire are great to do simultaneously everyday especially if you are limited on time in your workouts or just want to get in an abs workout.
Repetitions: 5 sets
Set-up:
Lie back in the center of your mat
Bend both knees into the Powerhouse
Technique:
Lift the head, neck and shoulders off the mat
Place both hands on the middle of one shin
Lengthen the opposite leg to a 45 degree angle
Use your Powerhouse to switch the legs
Finish:
After the last rep, pull both knees into the Powerhouse and lower the head, neck and shoulders.
LOVA Tips:
If you have neck issues, keep your head, neck and shoulders on the mat and extend the leg to the ceiling. Issues with your knees? Hold behind the knee so the pulling in action is assisted by the back of the thigh. Lastly for hip issues work the legs in a table top position. This is when the knee and hips are flexed only to a 90 degree angle. If you have a hip or knee replacement, please work a certified instructor until you are comfortable performing the exercises on your own.
Click here for the next exercise in the Mat repertoire – Double Leg Stretch Previous exercise – Rolling Like a Ball