Crunch with Ball at the Back & Upper Arms in the Long Straps

Spring Setting and Key Facts

Springs

1× light

Reps

6–8 reps per variation

Level

Intermediate

Equipment

Reformer, Pilates ball

Body area

Core, Shoulders, Legs

Muscles

Rectus abdominis, Obliques, Shoulders, Hip flexors

Video tutorial

in the member area

Starting Position

Facing the end of the Reformer, sitting, feet on the headrest. Both upper arms in the long straps, the ball under the shoulder blades, hands behind the head.

Step-by-Step Flow

1. Lean into the ball and reach the arms out to the side, then crunch and bring the elbows toward the knees.
2. Bring one leg into tabletop at a time.
3. Do the same with both legs in tabletop.
4. Hold both legs in the diagonal, the elbows wide to the right and left.

Cues for Teaching

• Lean into the ball, don't slump onto it.
• The crunch comes from the abdominals, the head rests heavy in the hands.
• The legs only go as low into the diagonal as the lower back stays still.