Pilates Teaser
An advanced supine core exercise requiring controlled balance and abdominal strength to lift the torso and legs simultaneously.
Instructions
- Lie on your back with your legs extended and your arms by your sides.
- Prepare your core by pressing your lower back into the mat.
- Inhale and lift your arms overhead toward the ceiling while simultaneously lifting your legs and torso slightly off the mat.
- Continue lifting as your arms sweep forward and your torso continues to rise, creating a V-shape with your body.
- At the top of the movement, you should be balanced on your sitting bones with your knees slightly bent and arms extended forward at shoulder height.
- Hold this position briefly, maintaining core engagement.
- Exhale and slowly lower your torso and legs back down to the starting position with control.
- Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Tips
- This is an advanced exercise; master foundational core exercises before attempting.
- The movement is about control and precision, not speed.
- Keep your lower back pressed into the mat as long as possible during the descent.
- If balance is challenging, bend your knees more or reduce the range of motion.
- Maintain steady breathing; avoid holding your breath during the movement.
- Engage your entire core, including the transverse abdominis, throughout the exercise.
- This exercise combines strength, balance, and flexibility.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps |