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Pilates Reformer Thigh Stretch

IntermediatestretchTier T2

You kneel upright on a reformer carriage with your knees against the shoulder blocks, holding a strap handle in each hand. You lean back slowly against the springs, then return upright.

Targets: Knee

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

No equipment needed

Dosage

1

Sets

30 sec

Reps / Time

15 sec

Rest

controlled

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. A man kneeling upright on a reformer's carriage, holding a strap handle in each hand.

    Step 1 of 3

    Kneel on the carriage with both knees against the shoulder blocks, holding a strap handle in each hand. Engage your core and keep your spine tall.

  2. The same man, now leaning his torso and pelvis back together in a straight line, still kneeling with his knees against the shoulder blocks.

    Step 2 of 3

    Lean your torso and pelvis back, hinging at the knees, keeping your body straight from head to knees. Look toward the back edge of the reformer.

  3. A man kneeling upright on a reformer's carriage, holding a strap handle in each hand.

    Step 3 of 3

    Kneel on the carriage with both knees against the shoulder blocks, holding a strap handle in each hand. Engage your core and keep your spine tall.

Breathing

  • Inhale while leaning your torso and pelvis back, hinging at the knees; exhale while lifting the straps slightly and returning to the upright position with control.

Safety Information

If you have knee problems, ask a physical therapist or a Clinical Pilates instructor before attempting this exercise, because this is a contraindication. Keep both hands gripping a strap handle throughout the whole hinge -- releasing a handle while your torso is leaned back removes your balance support suddenly. Move slowly and stop leaning back at the first sign of pinching at the front of either hip or strain in the low back; do not force the hinge deeper than feels controlled. Stop if the exercise causes pain or you become unwell. Seek appropriate professional advice about symptoms or suitability.

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Printed from clapmove.com. ClapMove is not a replacement for professional medical advice — always consult a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.