Please visit www.pilatesonfifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.co, (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store). Also, check out our new iPhone application(more on EP147)!!
Shoulder Bridge One Leg Circle is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Shoulder Bridge. Circling the extended leg challenges the core as deep muscles of the spine stabilize against the circular movement of the leg. YouâÂÂll also tone the gluteal muscles and flatten the abdominals while you strengthen your core. If you are having trouble keeping the pelvis still, spread your arms wider on the mat to create a larger base of support, find the place where you can stabilize, and then challenge yourself by bringing the arms closer to your sides. Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Obliques with Small Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise âÂÂObliquesâ (or âÂÂCriss-Crossâ as it is sometimes called). Adding the small ball under the back increases the instability of the exercise, thus increasing the challenge to the core. YouâÂÂll tone and strengthen the abdominal muscles, especially the internal and external obliques, and target the deep muscles that stabilize the spine. Spinal flexibility also increases as you engage the abdominal muscles through flexion and extension. Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Teaser/Boat Challenge is a variation of the original Pilates exercise "Teaser." This exercise challenges abdominal strength and core stability while moving the spine and pelvis from the Teaser positio in Pilates to the Boat Pose in yoga. You'll flatten your abs, improve balance and control and reinforce proper positioning! Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Side Lying Adduction/Abduction with Ring is a variation of the original Pilates exercise âÂÂSide Leg Lift Series.â Using the ring adds resistance to help tone the muscles of the inner and outer thighs, the adductors and abductors. Keeping your abdominal muscles engaged while performing side lying exercises helps strengthen the core as well. You sculpt long, lean legs and flatten your abs! Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Elbow Plank Twister is a variation of the Elbow Plank which is itself a variation of the original Pilates exercise Leg Pull Front. This variation further challenges the oblique abdominal muscles as the lower body rotates from side to side while the upper body remains stable. Elbow Plank Twister challenges the core, shrinks the waist and strengthens the shoulder girdle stabilizers. Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Teaser TomTom is a variation of the original Pilates exercise "Teaser." This version challenges the obliques more as you maintain the abdominal contraction in the Teaser position and take arms and legs to opposite sides You'll flatten the abs and strengthen the core! Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Port de Bras 2 on the BoSU is a variation of the Classical Pilates Arc Barrel exercise of the same name. This version adds arm circles when moving through flexion and etension to increase the challenge and increase the stretch. YouâÂÂll strengthen your abdominal muscles, increase spinal flexibility and open the front of the shoulders. Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Half Roll Down with the Mini Body Bar is a variation of original Pilates exercises that helps strengthen the abdominal muscles and increases the flexibility of the spine. Be sure to choose a bar that is not too heavy (we use four pounds) as you do not want to over-challenge the shoulder girdle stabilizers! Adding biceps curls to this exercise targets both the arms and the absâ¦what could be better! Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos), www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store.)
Side Bends on the BOSU is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Side Bends on the Arc Barrel. This exercise strengthens the core as you stabilize side lying on the BOSU and targets and tones the oblique abdominal muscles. Your waist will shrink and your core strength will improve! Please visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos), www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store.)
Port de bras on the BoSU is a variation of the original Pilates exercise of the same name on the Arc Barrel. Articulating the spine through flexion and extension helps increase flexibility of the spine while targeting the abdominal muscles more than the typical âÃÂÃÂcrunch!âÃÂàThe added instability of the BoSU triggers the deep stabilizers of the core to fire as well! The result: flat abs, a strong core and open shoulders!
Hamstring Curls with Band is a variation of original Pilates exercises on the reformer. This exercise strengthens the hamstrings and tones the back of the legs. Be sure to keep glutes engaged and your abdominal muscles pulled in tightly to support your lower back. Donât let your hips lift off the mat as you bend your knee! Repeat 6-10 times each leg for maximum effect.
Lower and Lift with the Small Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise âLower and Liftâ on the barrels. This exercise targets the lower fibers of the abdominal muscles to tone and tighten while protecting the lower back. The instability of the ball further challenges the core stabilizers so youâll get a strong core AND flat abs!
Roll Up with the Mini Body Bar is a variation on the original Pilates exercise âÂÂRoll Up.â Using the Mini Body Bar can help individuals with tight lower backs roll up sequentially and smoothly through the spine, although its use does require more shoulder girdle stability. Mini Body Bars come in a range of weights, and we are using a 4 pound bar. This exercise tones and strengthens the abdominal muscles, increases flexibility of the spine and strengthens the shoulder girdle stabilizers. Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos), http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for our online store!)
Toe Taps with the Foam Roller is a great preparation for all original Pilates exercises as it strengthens the core and flattens the abdominal muscles. Changing the place of the hands on the floor can make it easier or harder, so be sure to challenge yourself! Keep the abdominal muscles drawn in for maximum tummy flattening benefit! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Side Bends on the Ball is a variation on the original Pilates mat exercise Side Bends. This version is easier on the shoulder girdle, but because the ball adds instability, the core is challenged greatly here! Be sure to use the strength of your legs to help stabilize your torso and Side Bends on the Ball tones all the muscles of the body. Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Seated Circles on the Stability Ball targets the deep stabilizers of the lumbar spine and activates the core. Range of motion can be modified to make it easier or a bit more challenging according to your clientsâ needs. Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos), http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store) and Click HERE for class schedule.
Plank Leg Lifts on the Ball prepare the core stabilizers for original Pilates mat exercises such as Leg Pull Front and Push Up. By varying the position of the ball, you can make the exercise easier (if the ball is under the thighs) or harder (if the ball is under the shins). This exercise strengthens the core, the shoulder stabilizers and arm muscles and tones the muscles of the legs.
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos)and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store)
Heel Squeeze with the Pilates ring strengthens the gluts and hamstrings to prepare you for original Pilates exercises such as Swan Dive and Double Leg Kick. By pulling the abdominal muscles in while lying on your stomach, youâll protect your lower back and tone your abs simultaneously. We call this exercise the anti-gravity exercise for the amazing uplifting effects it has on onesâ backside!! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos), http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Rolling Like a Ball with Small Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Rolling Like a Ball. Using the ball facilitates proper execution of the exercise and a deeper contraction of the abdominal muscles. You will tone the absâ¦and have some fun! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Shoulder Bridge with the Pilates Ring is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Shoulder Bridge. This version targets the inner thighs more, so you will sculpt both the backs of your legs (hamstrings and gluteus maximus) and the inner thighs. As always, don't forget to hold your abs in too! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
ActivCore FEX (Functional Exercise) is a dynamic new core training system featuring the Redcord system from Norway. Pilates fans will love this unigue strength training system which features controlled instability so that the core muscles and surrounding muscles work in perfect harmony and synergy: supreme neuromuscular training! ActivCore has been used successfully in golf training, swimming training, tennis and skiing training (to name a few), all in an amazingly short amount of time! For years, top Olympic athletes have used ActivCore featuring Redcord for sports conditioning and the ultimate way to enhance sports performance. Now you can try it too! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Breast Stroke on the Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Breast Stroke. Performing this exercise on the ball requires more core stability and balance than the mat version, so be careful not to push into the ball with your abdominal muscles to find your balance!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos)and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Froggies in the elbow scoop position is a variation of original Pilates reformer and barrel exercises. The key to success in this position is not allowing your body to relax! Be sure to press your elbows into your mat and lengthen your spine away from your sacrum while hollowing out your abs! You'll tone and flatten your abs, strengthen your core and sculpt leg muscles...all at the same time!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos)and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Banana Split: The Banana Split is a combination of the original Pilates exercises Side Lying Scissors (usually performed on the barrels) and Side Leg Lift Series #3, which we call the banana! This exercise tones and strengthens the abdominal muscles, especially the obliques, and sculpts long, lean legs!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos)and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Push Up on the Stability Ball is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Push Up. Depending on the placement of the ball, push ups on the ball can be easier on the lower back than regular push ups, which is a great way to increase core strength. All versions of push ups on the ball challenge the shoulder girdle stabilizers and help increase arm strength. You will strengthen your core and your arms safely and effectively!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Obliques Roll Back with the Small Ball can be done two ways: the first way targets the adductors which can help intensify the work in the abdominal muscles, and the second way challenges the abdominal muscles by lifting the arms overhead. Both are a variation of the original Pilates exercise "Obliques" and are a great choice for individuals who have trouble flexing up from a supine (reclined) position.
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
The Side Lying Clam and Book with the Exercise Band is derived from original Pilates reformer exercises. These exercises target the outer thighs and the buttocks to help lift your buttocks and keep you looking great in all the latest fashions! Make sure you adjust the band to get maximum range of motion AND maximum resistance given your strength -- and keep your hips stacked! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Push Up with the Bosu is a variation of the original Pilates exercise "Push Up." Because the BoSU (which stands for "Both Sides Up") adds instablility, the shoulder girdle, the core and the abdominal muscles are greatly challenged! As always, if you feel your back arching, perform this exercise on your knees! Your abs, arms, back and core will be stronger in no time! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos), http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Hip Rolls using a stability ball challenges the core and strengthens the hamstrings and glutes. The instability of the ball targets the deep muscles of the spine to increase core strength, while toning the backs of the legsâ¦particularly the stubborn âtop of the back of the thighsâ region! If you have a tendency to cramp in your hamstrings, take a moment to stretch before starting this exercise. Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos)and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Spine Twist with the stretch band (or exercise band, same thing!) is a variation on the original Pilates exercise Spine Twist. Adding the band enables proper execution of the exercise when the band is around the base of the scapula (you can't overuse your arms) and targets the arm muscles when around the feet. Both versions help deepen the abdominal contraction and flatten your abs! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
The Side Leg Lift Series is an original Pilates exercise that targets the muscles of the inner and outer thighs. Performing this exercise on the Bosu challenges core stability and balance to increase core strength and tone the muscles of the torso. Youâll experience flatter abs and more shapely legs in no time! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Marching on the Stability Ball is an excellent warm-up exercise for any classical Pilates, original Pilates or contemporary Pilates routine. The instability of the ball helps activate the core and is far more challenging then it looks! Perform this exercise very slowly for maximum effect: fast marches are much easier!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
This challenging version of the original Pilates exercise One Leg Circle targets the core and increases strength and flexibility of the hamstrings. Be sure to modify your range of motion as necessary to maintain control given the instability the ball adds! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Kick Back with Band simulates original Pilates exercises on the reformer with its use of tension to work the gluteus maximus and the hamstrings. Be sure to keep the abs pulled in to support the lower back and flatten the abdominal muscles.
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store)
Marching is a derivation of the original Pilates exercise Single Leg Stretch with more of a focus on hip extension of the outstretched leg while maintaining an imprinted position. Marching tones the abdominal muscles, strengthens the hip extensors and flattens the abs! Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Knee Sways are a great warm-up exercise for any original Pilates, classical Pilates or contemporary Pilates workout. This exercise tones the abdominal muscles â especially the obliques â and challenges stability of the spine in rotation. Make to only lower the legs as far as stability can be maintained!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Suspension Bridge is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Shoulder Bridge. This variation challenges stability of the pelvis and strengthens the hip extensors, particularly those of the side supporting you. Suspension Bridge tones the back of the legs, strengthens the core and flattens the abdominal muscles.
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Yawning Cat is a variation of the Cat Stretch, part of a great warm-up for any Pilates class. The Yawning Cat adds rotation of the spine to increase flexibility and stretch the muscles of the chest and back. Be sure to keep the abs engaged to prevent the back from arching!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Double Leg Stretch with Obliques is a variation on the original Pilates exercise Double Leg Stretch. By adding rotation into the classical Pilates exercise, you can target the obliques more and shrink your waist! This is our 100th podcast, so thanks for watching everyone!!
Please visit http://www.PilatesOnFifth.com (for more info), http://www.UltimatePilatesWorkouts.com (for more videos) and http://www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com (for store).
Teaser Roll is a challenging variation on the original Pilates exercises Teaser, Side Leg Lift Series and Swimming. This exercise requires tremendous core strength, balance, control and targets the muscles of the abdomen and the back. Energizing the legs as well will help you perform this exercise.
