Maria and Wolfgang doing the Pilates exercise Spinal Rotation
Pilates - Feel the change
Pilates - Feel the change

Pilates exercises explained

Spinal rotation

The rotation (twist) in the spine stretches and lengthens the ligamentous and fascial structure of the spine. At the same time, the chest can open up. The mobility in the spine is promoted. The shoulder girdle becomes freer.

Exercise description

Place the legs over each other in a stable position. With the inhale, the arm rises upward. And with the exhale, the arm sinks backwards without the torso losing its neutral position. That is, we must not tilt into a hollow back in the position.

With the next inhalation, the arm goes back up and sinks forward to the starting position with the exhalation.

By repeating this exercise several times, we mobilize the thoracic spine on the one hand and also learn to hold ourselves in the neutral position in a rotational movement. Further, the intercostal muscles are activated so that we can breathe more freely.

We repeat the exercise 4 to 6 times per side.

Frequently asked questions

What to do when the shoulder hurts?

Shorten the lever by bending the arm and simply resting the fingertips on the shoulder girdle.

How can I tell that the rotary movement is going too far?

By not being able to keep the pelvis stable and also the upper leg detaching from the lower one.

Picture of Maria, Pilates instructor

Pro Tip From Maria

Follow your hand lead with your eyes. Let the movement come from the center of the body and make sure that the shoulder girdle is NOT leading.

Slide the top leg slightly in the opposite direction of the arm guide to create a counter-draw (polarize). Length, length, length.

Video with the brief explanation of the Pilates exercise Spinal Rotation

Most common errors

Movement comes from the shoulder girdle and not from the trunk.

Pelvis moves with.

Spine sags like a hammock.

Training support

How can you support the training success?

While standing, consciously turn the upper body to the right and left again and again.

Graphic with the muscles that are trained during the Pilates exercise Spinal Rotation

  • Deep muscles
  • Surface musculature
Muscle groups
  • Transversus
  • Multifidus
  • Obliquus Internus
  • Diaphragm Pelvis
  • Obliquus Externus
  • Pectoralis Major
  • Deltoid
Equipment
  • Mat
Difficulty
  • Light
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