Pilates on Fifth Video Podcast offers 2-3 minute weekly online Pilates training videos as well as longer workouts which provide tips anyone can use to get the most out of Pilates exercises. For fitness enthusiasts and infrequent exercisers alike, the Pilates instruction teaches how to perform Pilates exercises with proper technique and form to achieve greater core strength, flatter abdominals and greater muscle tone. You will lose weight, improve your posture and have fun! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more information.
Scissors in the Air is a classical Pilates exercise that strengthens the core and tones the back of the legs, the butt and the abdominal muscles. Focusing on the leg that is reaching into extension and concentrating on an even split of the of the legs targets the gluteus maximus and hamstrings and challenges core strength. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Click HERE for class schedule.
The Leg Pull is a classical Pilates exercise that strengthens the core, the hip flexors and the hip extensors. Keeping the abdominal muscles and the hip extensors contracted equally is important to stabilize the pelvis against movement of the leg. You'll get lean legs, strong abs and fabulous arms--all in one exercise! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com and www.Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Click HERE for class schedule.
Bicycles in the Air is a very challenging classical Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominal muscles, the hip extensors and hip flexors. Keep the flexed leg parallel to the floor (don't allow it to drop towards the face) and focus on reaching the opposite leg into as much extension as possible without extending the spine. If you feel too much weight in your arms, engage your abdominal muscles more! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Corkscrew is a classical Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominal muscles and increases flexibility of the spine. It is very important in this exercise to keep the spine rolling along the same imaginary line with the weight traveling along one side of the back and then the other. Don't laterally flex or rotate the spine in this exercise!! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Core Challenge in Ten is part of our Pilates in Ten series which utilizes classical Pilates exercises and variations of original exercises to strengthen your core and your abdominal muscles. Performing this series regularly will flatten and tone your abdominal muscles, improve your posture and strengthen your arms.Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Rocking is a classical Pilates exercise that challenges spinal flexibility in extension. This exercise should be avoided by those who experience knee pain or back pain -- or those who can't reach their ankles to start. Be careful not to use the head and neck to start the movement. Instead, use the force of the exhale as the hands pull the feet to rock forward, and the force of the inhale as the spine extends and the feet press into the hands to come up. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Jack Knife is a classical Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominal muscles and challenges the core. Jack Knife builds on the Roll Over by adding extension of the legs to the ceiling, and maintaining the position of the legs as high as possible above the torso while rolling down to the starting position. Great for 12 pack abs! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Twist is a Classical Pilates exercise that challenges core strength and shoulder stability. The abdominal muscles work to move the spine through flexion, extension, lateral flexion and rotation to create flatter abs and a flexible spine. Make sure you are comfortable with the Side Bend exercise before attempting the Twist! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Swan Dive Rock and Catch is a variation of the original Pilates exercises Swan Dive. This exercise strengthens the spinal and hip extensors, which helps improve posture and tighten the butt! Make sure to maintain an even curve in the spine throughout the exercise -- and don't allow the head to move up and down! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Roll Over is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominal muscles and increases flexibility of the spine. When performing the Roll Over, be careful not to use momentum to roll onto you upper back and be careful not to roll onto your neck. Instead, use the strength of your abdominal muscles to peel the spine off the mat one vertebrae at a time and stop when the weight is between the shoulder blades. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Push Up is an original Pilates exercises that strengthens the core and strengthens and tones the arms. By remembering to keep the inner thigh and gluteus maximus muscles engaged, the legs and butt muscles are able to help the abdominal muscles support the spine and pelvis in neutral. This is important for insuring that the back does not arch, which causes tension in the lower back. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
This leg workout features original Pilates exercises (and some variations on the classics!) that target the muscles of the leg -- the outer thighs, inner thighs, quads and hamstrings -- to shape and tone lean muscles. The key to getting the most out of these exercises is to conduct the exercises with precision and control. Imagine moving through water instead of air so that the muscles encounter "resistance" throughout the range of motion. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
The Neck Pull is an original Pilates exercise that strenghtens the abdominals and increases flexibility of the spine. Regardless of the name, please do not pull on your neck! Instead, let your hands support the weight of your head and use your abdominal strength to roll up smoothly, without momentum ideally! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
The Lobster is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Swimming. As in Swimming, Lobster strengthens the muscles of the back (the erector spinae) and the hip extensors, but because Lobster adds adduction of the legs, the inner thighs also get toned! Keeping the abs pulled in throughout the exercise not only protects the lower back but also gives you strong and flat abs! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
The Slow Double Leg Stretch is an original Pilates exercise which strengthens the core, tones the abdominal muscles and increases coordination. Now that the exercises are becoming more complicated, don't forget to keep your abdominal muscles pulled flat to your spine as you concentrate on the movements of the arms and legs! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
Hip Twist Tick Tock is a variation of the original Pilates exercise Hip Twist. We recommend this exercise for those individuals who wish to increase their abdominal strength and improve their form before progressing to the full Hip Twist. Hip Twist Tick Tock will strengthen all 4 layers of the abdominal muscles, especially the obliques, and strengthen the hip flexors. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
The Watchdog is our name for an old favorite exercise of physical therapists and exercise enthusiasts alike. Stabilizing the core against the opposite movement of the arms and legs targets the deep muscles of the abdomen and spine. We added the hovering Watchdog to challenge the core and strengthen it even more. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
Side Lying Bicycle is a mat version of an original Pilates exercise usually conducted with springs on the Cadillac. Balancing on the side strengthens the core and the fluid controlled movement of the legs tones all the muscles around the legs and increases flexibility. You'll be ready for those summer skirts in no time! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
Leg Pull Prep is an easier version of the original Pilates exercise Leg Pull that not only prepares the arms and the shoulder joint to support the weight of the torso but also strengthens the hip extensors. Focusing on keeping the pelvis neutral and pressing into the legs and arms to lift the pelvis strengthens the core, flattens the abdominal muscles and tones the arms. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
Leg Pull Front is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the core and the shoulder girdle stabilizers. Alternating lifting the legs challenges the stability of the torso and targets the deep muscles of the abdomen and spine. Supporting the torso's weight on the arms tones them and increases arm strength too! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info. Now, Pilates on the Go! - Workout DVD is available from Shop.PilatesOnFifth.com
Neck Pull #1 is an easier version of the original Pilates exercise Neck Pull which helps build strength and increase spinal flexibility. By focusing on keeping the abdominal muscles pulled in flat throughout the exercise, the lower back is always protected AND the abdominal muscles are being strengthened in their flattest position! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The One Leg Circle is an original Pilates exercise that challenges stability of the pelvis in neutral to strengthen the core and flatten the abdominal muscles. Pay attention to the modifications we mention so that you can choose to bend one or both knees as necessary to make sure you get the most out of this exercise. Though hamstring flexibility is important, it isn't the goal here! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Superman is a variation on original Pilates exercises that strengthens the muscles of the upper back and improves posture. Be sure to keep the shoulders down, especially when the arms reach forward, in order to keep tension out of the neck and shoulders. The Superman strenghtens the core, flattens the abdominal muscles and improves body awareness. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Short Plank is derived from original Pilates exercises in order to teach proper abdominal and torso support in the push up position. This exercise will strengthen your core, strengthen your shoulder girdle stabilizers and target the deep muscles of the abdomen and spine to protect your lower back. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Hip Twist is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominals and the core. By focusing on a modest range of motion to start and the correct use of the abdominal muscles, your abs will get stronger and flatter AND you'll protect your lower back. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Double Leg Kick is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the muscles of the back and increases flexilbility of the spine. As this exercise involves a lot of spinal extension, it is important to keep your abdominal muscles engaged and progress thorugh this exercise according to your own ability. Your posture will improve and you'll walk taller! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Teaser is a very challenging original Pilates exercise that involves abdominal strength, core strength, balance and coordination! To make learning the Teasers easier, this Teaser #1 starts with the legs in the air, roll up to Teaser position using abdominal strength, balance at the top and roll down with control. The Teaser strengthens your core, flattens your abs and make you feel really great when you get it! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Side Leg Lift Series strengthens the core and tones the muscles of the legs. Your waist will get flatter as you pull your abdominals in to stabilize your body against the movement of the legs. Your leg and butt muscles will tone up nicely so you'll look better in your jeans! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Swimming is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the muscles of the back and strengthens the core. By focusing on pulling in the abdominals (even though you're lying on them!) you'll not only flatten the abs but also protect the lower back. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Half Curl is a variation of a classical Pilates exercises that help teach how to use the abdominal muscles properly when curling off the mat from a reclined position. The effect is flatter abdominal muscles, a stronger core and a lower back that will always be protected by your strong abdominal muscles. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
"Core Strength", "Core Stability", "Powerhouse", etc. What does all of this mean? This podcast will describe which muscles and structures comprise the core so you'll never wonder what is meant by "the core" again! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Prone Leg Lifts are variations of the classical Pilates exercise the Swan Dive. This exercise tones and strengthens the back of the legs (hamstrings and glutes) and improves hip extension -- both necessary components of a good Swan Dive! Remember to keep your abdominal muscles pulled in to protect the lower back and keep tension out! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Develope is a variation of the original Pilates exercises in the side-lying series. This exercise tones the muscles of the legs and increases flexibility while improving core strength as well. Focus on proper form and the fluidity of the movement instead of the height of the leg and you will find this exercise far more effective! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
All practioners of Pilates are familiar with the original Pilates exercise "the Teaser!" These "mini-teasers" are precursors to the full Teaser to teach you how to do it right. By learning proper form, you will learn to strengthen and tone your abdominals without straining your lower back. Please remember that everyone's back is different both in flexibility and structure, so Teasers may be easier or harder for you depending on your individual structure! They are hard for us, so don't give up! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Heel Squeeze is derived from the principles of classical Pilates exercises. It teaches how to engage the gluteus maximus muscles WITHOUT engaging the lower back muscles. We demonstrate this exercise both with and without a small ball, but the ball is definitely not necessary to reap all the benefits. Focus on keeping the pelvis flat on the mat, the abdominal muscles pulled in and flat and tension out of the neck and shoulders while your tone your derriere! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Seal is an original Pilates exercise that increases core strength and balance while delivering a fun exercise! The goal of clapping the feet like a seal claps its flippers is to stabilize the torso against the movement of the legs AND increase the time your suspended on each side of the movement by just a second or two to develop ab strength and balance. This is probably our favorite exercise as it always makes clients smile! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Scissors is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the abdominal muscles and increases hamstring flexibility. If your hamstrings are tight initially, decrease the range of motion so that you can keep your knee straight, otherwise your hamstring flexibility won't increase as quickly. The Scissors will deliver flatter abs and lean sculpted legs! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Shoulder Bridge is an original Pilates exercise that builds core strength and strengthens the hamstrings and glutes. Keep your abdominal muscles contracted throughout the exercise to support the lumbar spine. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Double Leg Stretch is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens your abdominal muscles and your core. Reaching your arms and legs away from your torso challenges your core strength! To increase the core challenge, don't let your head and shoulders drop as your arms and legs reach away and pull in your abs to keep them as flat as possible---always! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Side Leg Lift Series is part of the classical Pilates repertoire and the Circles strengthen the core, flatten the abdominal muscles and tone the inner and outer thighs. If you feel strain in your lower back, bring your legs slightly forward of your body, but for a real challenge, maintain a perfectly straight line and bring your top hand to your hip! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The One Leg Kick is an original Pilates exercise that strengthens the hamstrings and glutes. You?ll tone the back of the legs and firm your butt while increasing your abdominal strength as you hold your abs off the floor! If you have tight quads, only bend your knee as far as is comfortable or feel free to pulse only once. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Obliques exercise is a classical Pilates exercise which targets the abdominal muscles to flatten the stomach and strengthen the core. Keeping the elbows wide helps keep the shoulders down and increases the rotation in the trunk ? which helps shrink your waist! Be sure to stretch your legs fully each time and stop the knee at 90 degrees of hip flexion to encourage greater strengthening of the abdominal muscles. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Swan Dive Graceful Rocks is a variation on the original Pilates exercise ?Swan Dive.? It strengthens the gluteus muscles (so your butt will get firmer!) and increases flexibility of the spine. Keeping your abdominal muscles engaged throughout will increase core strength AND protect the lower back. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Single Leg Stretch is a classical Pilates exercise for strengthening and toning the abdominal muscles. For increased abdominal challenge, stop the knee at 90 degrees of hip flexion instead of hugging the knee into the chest. Actively stretch through the legs, flatten the abs and keep the shoulders down with each movement and this exercise will tone many muscles in the body! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Pilates exercises involve strengthening the core and flattening the abs?.so why are your instructors always talking about the pelvis? This week?s podcast explains the importance of pelvic placement and how it relates to the lower back and the muscles around the hip joint. Just becoming aware of your pelvic placement as you drive your car, walk down the street or do any household activity can help you improve your alignment and strengthen the deep postural muscles of your body. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Open Leg Rocker is a classical Pilates exercise that strengthens the core and improves balance. If you can't do this at first, bend the knees slightly throughout, or just bend when you roll back and straighten as you return. Don't give up! Long-legged individuals will find this exercise more of a challenge so be patient and keep trying! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Hip Rolls with Heel Lift is a variation on original Pilates exercises. It helps strengthen the glutes and hamstrings and helps teach spinal articulation. Hip Rolls with Heel Lift is a great preparation for the classical Pilates exercise ?Shoulder Bridge.? And for all of you ladies interested in toning your backside, enjoy! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Breast Stroke is a classical Pilates exercise that increases the flexibility and strength of the upper spine. Keep your bottom rib on the mat to encourage the upper spine to extend and not the low back! When lying on your stomach, make sure you keep your abdominals engaged and the bones of your pelvis (namely the hip bones and pubic bone) pressing evenly into the mat. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Saw is a classical Pilates exercise that increases the flexibility and strength of the core. Be careful not to turn this into a hamstring stretch! The goal of the exercise is to use the abdominal muscles to rotate the spine, then flex the spine over the leg scooping out the abdominals. If you have tight hip flexors or hamstrings, start sitting on a small cushion so you can begin the exercise in upright alignment. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Open Leg Rocker Balance is a variation on the classical Pilates exercise Open Leg Rocker. This exercise strengthens the abdominal muscles, increases core strength and improves balance so that Open Leg Rocker can be performed better. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Spine Stretch Forward is an original Pilates exercise that increases the flexibility of the spine and tones the abdominal muscles. The key to performing this exercise correctly is to focus on flexing the spine evenly and NOT on stretching the hamstrings, though you may feel a slight stretch in the hamstrings. Start with your knees bent or sitting up on a cushion if tightness prevents you from achieving a vertical start position. Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
This exercise is a variation of classical Pilates exercises and helps fluid the strength necessary to do more advanced exercises like Hip Twist and Teaser. Remember to keep your belly button pulled to your spine and you will build more core strength and shrink your waist! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
The Half Roll Down is a variation on classical Pilates exercises and can be a great aid in learning to do more challenging exercises like the Roll Up and Teaser. The Half Roll Down challenges you to keep your abdominal muscles pulled in and flat and adding a lift of the arms makes it even harder! Pilates people alike! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
Want flatter abs in just ten minutes a day? Do this 10 minute abdominal workout, which contains classical Pilates exercises and some new variations, and you will be on your way to toned, tight abdominals. Suitable for beginners and advanced Pilates people alike! Visit www.PilatesOnFifth.com for more info.
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