Feet in Straps
Feet in straps is a great way to progress lumbopelvic stability training. Core control is challenged as the legs move away from the midline, requiring additional abdominal activation. However; the weight of the legs is still supported and some joint compression is applied. Despite the weight of the legs being somewhat supported in the straps, this series is still significantly more challenging than foot series with feet on the bar as the ropes can move in any direction and this needs to be controlled for.
As always, the resistance you choose will depend on your objectives. Lighter springs will challenge lumbopelvic stability whereas increasing spring resistance will challenge lower limb strength. This short series includes variations of bend & stretch, lift and lower as well as leg circles. Some variations can include:
- Hip position - parallel, external or internal rotation, position choice may depend on the functional requirements of your patient or any pathology you may have to consider.
- Degree of hip adduction - doing bend & stretch or lift and lower with legs adducted will increase feedback, legs in parallel will further challenge proprioception.
- Soft Pilates ball - adding a small ball between ankles will increase adductors activation. Clients love this variation in a class as they feel as though they are "working harder". Try bend and stretch
To learn more about the large Pilates equipment and lumbopelvic stability training, attend APPI's level 1 large equipment course which will cover foundational movements on the reformer, split pedal chair, cadilac and barrel.
Equipment Level 1
Equipment level 1 is the first step in the APPI equipment certification and is the perfect introduction to the large Pilates equipment, covering a range of beginner movements. More Info/ Course Dates