Reformer exercise · Beginner

Elbow Slide on the Carriage

Elbow Slide on the Carriage is a beginner-level reformer exercise with Short box that mainly works the back, shoulders and core. Spring setting: 1× light (1× medium for more support). Below you'll find the starting position, the flow in 2 steps and the cues to teach it in class.

Spring Setting and Key Facts

Springs
1× light (1× medium for more support)
Reps
6–8 reps
Level
Beginner
Equipment
Reformer, Short box
Body area
Back, Shoulders, Core
Muscles
Latissimus dorsi, Shoulder girdle, Core
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Starting Position

Both elbows come onto the carriage, the knees stay stacked on the platform.

Step-by-Step Flow

  1. Slide the elbows forward toward the end of the Reformer.
  2. Come back until the elbows are under the shoulders again.

Cues for Teaching

  • Only slide as far as the lower back stays long.
  • The way back comes from the back, not from the arms.
  • The knees stay stacked and quiet on the platform.

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