Ab Curl with Short Straps

Spring Setting and Key Facts

Springs

1× light

Reps

8–10 reps per variation

Level

Intermediate

Equipment

Reformer, Pilates ball

Body area

Core, Arms, Legs

Muscles

Rectus abdominis, Latissimus dorsi, Hip flexors

Starting Position

Lying on your back on the carriage, ball between the ankles, legs in tabletop, both hands in the short straps.

Step-by-Step Flow

1. Bring the long arms down beside the hips and lift head and shoulder blades.
2. Add the legs, extending them into the diagonal.
3. Rotate twice with the ball between the ankles.
4. Hold the arms by the hips and the head and shoulder blades lifted, and move the long legs up and down.

Cues for Teaching

• The shoulders stay down, even while the arms pull.
• Only curl up as far as the lumbar spine stays on the carriage.
• In the rotation the ankles lead, not the knees.