| This week we’re taking a closer look at the Arm Series in Tall Kneeling.
At face value, it appears that this series of exercises is aimed at mobilising and strengthening our arms and shoulders. That’s true in part, but there are many ways of achieving this.
So why do we do this movement in tall kneeling? In tall kneeling, particularly facing backwards, we are challenging our balance and proprioception, our core stability and our ability to open up our hip flexors.
Balance is more challenging in tall kneeling, so we need to be able to access core muscles to maintain a good posture. We also be working our quadriceps (at the front of our thighs) to maintain balance and stability. If our quadriceps or back are tight, we may find it difficult to open up our hip flexors, which may make this exercise more challenging.
That’s why all of the other movements in our current program are aimed at opening our hips – think about the lunges, bridging, ‘climb-a-tree’. So, by the time we reach the Kneeling Ams series, many of us will be well-placed to find the form we need to perform the exercises well.
For those of us who may still be struggling, we have the box in front of our thighs, for support and to aid proprioception. We can also place our fingertips on the box for additional support.
Our teachers have lots of ideas to help you find your flow in Kneeling Arms – including some ideas for home practice! If this is something you’d like to do, have a word with your teacher who will be happy to offer some suggestions.
If you’d like to experience the Kneeling Arms series, book your place at one of our Reformer Plus classes. If you’re new to Reformer Pilates and want to know what it’s all about – book into our Reformer Fundamentals Class to find out more! |
