Reformer exercise · Intermediate

Crunch in the Long Strap with Ball Rotation

Crunch in the Long Strap with Ball Rotation is an intermediate reformer exercise with a Pilates ball that mainly works the core, hips and legs. Spring setting: 1× light. Below you'll find the starting position, the flow in 3 steps and the cues to teach it in class.

From the reformer classes of Marie Wernicke, certified Pilates instructor · Updated

Spring Setting and Key Facts

Springs
1× light
Reps
8–10 reps per variation
Level
Intermediate
Equipment
Reformer, Pilates ball
Body area
Core, Hips, Legs
Muscles
Rectus abdominis, Obliques, Hip flexors
Video tutorial
in the member area
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Starting Position

Facing left, the front long strap lies across the left thigh. Lie back onto the carriage, hands behind the head, legs in tabletop, eyes to the ceiling.

Step-by-Step Flow

  1. Crunch.
  2. Lower the tabletop legs and lift them again.
  3. Tuck the ball between the right knee and elbow, hold the rotation, extend the left leg long and lower and lift it.

Cues for Teaching

  • The head rests heavy in the hands — the pull comes from the abdominals.
  • Only lower the legs as far as the lower back stays on the carriage.
  • The ball between knee and elbow holds the rotation — it must not slip out.

Featured in These Classes

This exercise is part of a ready-made reformer class plan with class outline, springs and cues:

Preview from the video for Crunch in the Long Strap with Ball RotationWith videoWith video in the plan “Archer Series: Single-Arm Weight Work”The whole exercise on video, step by step, with springs and cues. The video plays inside the plan.Go to the plan →

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