Pilates Exercise of the day!

Leg Circles

Aim:

Mobilize the hp joint to keep them free.
Learn how to work your leg while keeping your torso firmly anchored and stable.
Stretch your legs while maintaining perfect posture.
Toning the thigh muscles

Starting position:

Lie on your back with your arms extended down at your sides, palms down. Engage (tighten) your stomach muscles and raise your 1 leg to an upright position at a 90 degree angle to the mat.

If your leg muscles are tight you can slightly bend your leg.

Motion:

Keep your spine anchored firmly to the mat.

Inhale: Lower your leg down to the side slightly (First half of the circle)

Exhale: While completing the circle

Watch Points:

Keep the circles small and controlled, do not move your lower back.
Make sure your body stays anchored to the mat throughout the exercise keeping your back, neck and one leg pressed to the mat and motionless.
No stomach bulge during the exercise, navel to spine.

The goal is to make your circles larger as you become more proficient, always keeping your torso firmly anchored.