Maria and Wolfgang doing the Pilates exercise Front Support Prep
Pilates - Feel the change
Pilates - Feel the change

Pilates exercises explained

Front Support Prep

The "Front Support Prep" is the simplest version of the classic Pilates exercise "Front Support".

The exercise trains the arm and shoulder girdle muscles as well as the entire torso muscles. It promotes balance and requires inner stability and concentration.

It is preparatory for all other front support exercises as well as exercises in the push-up position.

Exercise description

With an exhalation, push one leg off the body along the leg axis on the floor.

With the inhalation activate the center of the body.

With the exhalation raise the diagonal arm stretched to shoulder height.

Inhaling hold position and exhaling come back to starting position.

Change page.

We repeat the exercise 4 to 6 times per side.

After a few repetitions, leg and arm can also be lifted simultaneously during exhalation.

Frequently asked questions

How do I feel if my spine is straight?

Place a Pilates roller or broomstick on your back.

Picture of Maria, Pilates instructor

Pro Tip From Maria

If you feel pain in your wrists, place them a little further in front of your shoulder girdle. Mobilize the wrists before the exercise to stimulate the synovial fluid.

You can also place the heels of your hands on a slightly elevated mat, or you can short term rest on your forearms.

Spread your fingers as you lay on the mat and try to put weight specifically on the heels of your hands.

Video with the brief explanation of the Pilates exercise Front Support Prep

Most common errors

The head is too high - keep your eyes towards the ground.

The supporting leg tilts inward while the playing leg is in motion. It is best to film yourself with your smartphone while practicing or to take a look at the supporting leg.

Assistance

What can you do if the exercise is too difficult?

Only alternately lift the legs. Later, the arms. Then the exercise can be done again in the combination.

Graphic showing the muscles that are trained during the Front Support Prep Pilates exercise.

  • Deep muscles
  • Surface musculature
Muscle groups
  • Transversus
  • Multifidus
  • Obliquus Internus
  • Serratus
  • Diaphragm Pelvis
  • Pectoralis Major
  • Biceps & Triceps
  • Obliquus Externus
  • Ischiocrural
  • Glutaeus
Equipment
  • Mat
Difficulty
  • Light
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