CONNECTING TO THE CORRECT MUSCLES IN MAT WORK CAN BE CHALLENGING, depending on the structure of the client and possibly the exercise itself. Not to mention that the thought of matwork alone can be intimidating for some!
I’ve found that props can help you and your clients connect with the exercises in a deeper way, while making sure the integrity of the work is left in tact. One of my favorites is the “squishy” ball, since it molds to each unique body shape to provide feedback during movement.
Feedback is key to connecting, whether it be from a prop, touch or cues. I find that physically touching something can be of tremendous help for individuals who “don’t feel it.” Not only can the ball be used to modify an exercise, but it can also add in a progression.
The small ball speaks to me personally, as I suffer from arthritis in my lower back. The feedback that it grants helps release that area, so I can work deeper and without pain.
These essential movements incorporate all ranges of motion and major muscle groups, while remaining attainable for most practitioners. Every exercise featured is rooted in the BASI Foundation and Graduate Program, created by Rael Isacowitz. Let’s get ready to connect to the work on a deeper, more intimate level! PS
GENERAL GUIDELINES
PROP 9-inch “squishy” ball. Note that the circumference makes a difference, so be sure it’s large enough to achieve full ranges of motion, as well as provide support and help you maintain alignment.
BREATH See cues throughout.
REPS Varies.
This story is from the March - April 2020 edition of Pilates Style.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March - April 2020 edition of Pilates Style.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Finding New Momentum
Overcoming obstacles caused by the pandemic, the virtual version of this popular festival still achieved its goals.
Carola Trier's Extraordinary Journey
In his authoritative biography of the first woman to open a studio, Reiner Grootenhuis delved into her personal papers to tell the harrowing story of her time in a prison camp during World War II.
Racism in the Pilates Industry
Incidents of police brutality and the ensuing Black Lives Matter protests have shed a bright light on systemic racism in the U.S., including in the Pilates industry. Here, Black instructors share their experiences.
For Self-defense
Moves of the Month
Comfort Food Made Healthy
This fall, cozy up to tantalizing comfort food that’s also healthy. A new cookbook from Kristin Cavallari shows you how.
Pilates Postcard
A Pilates teacher shares how the method is making waves abroad.
The Ultimate Gift
One year ago, Kahley Schiller’s life was completely upended by an extreme health crisis. But thanks to her 20-year Pilates practice, the 40-year-old was able to recover quickly.
Revelations
For Sarita Allen, a star of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and a protégée of Kathleen Stanford Grant, Pilates was key to her decades-long career.
Meaning WITHIN THE Movement
The Five Elements of Chinese Medicine help you go deeper into your practice, promising plenty of play along the way.
PILATES IN THE HOOD
Though she’s trained many top stars, Kim Carruthers says she’s most proud of her work as the founder and director of a nonprofit bringing the method to underserved communities.
