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Maria and Wolfgang doing the Pilates exercise Spine Twist
Pilates - Feel the change
Pilates - Feel the change

Pilates exercises explained

Spine Twist

With the Pilates exercise "Spine Twist" we activate the small stabilizing muscles of the spine, which are involved in a rotation of the trunk. Also, we learn to maintain the erect position in the spine in an exercise against gravity.

Exercise description

Especially for this exercise it is important that the spine is well aligned in its physiological curvature. We sit, if possible, in a long seat, with or without padding or optionally cross-legged. The arms are elongated at shoulder height.

With the inhalation consciously straighten the spine. With the exhalation turn in one direction. With the inhalation hold position.

With the next exhalation, twist further into the twist.

With the inhalation come back to the starting position. Then repeat the twist in the other direction. The arm position can be changed if needed. We can also vary with the breathing.

We repeat the exercise 4 to 6 times.

Frequently asked questions

What if I am shortened on the back of my thigh and cannot sit upright?

Legs cross-legged or slightly bent.

Picture of Maria, Pilates instructor

Pro Tip From Maria

For this exercise, imagine your body axis being stretched across a thread from the crown of your head to your tailbone.

When twisting, feel like you want to screw your body towards the ceiling.

Video with the brief explanation of the Pilates exercise Spine Twist

Most common errors

The movement is guided from the shoulder girdle and not from the center of the body.

Length in the spine is lost during movement.

Graphic with the muscles that are trained during the Pilates exercise Spine Twist

  • Deep muscles
  • Surface musculature
Muscle groups
  • Transversus
  • Multifidus
  • Obliquus Internus
  • Diaphragm Pelvis
  • Deltoidues
  • Trapezius
  • Obliquus Externus
Equipment
  • Mat
Difficulty
  • Light
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