Reformer exercise · Intermediate

Plank with Ball Behind the Knee

Plank with Ball Behind the Knee is an intermediate reformer exercise with a Pilates ball that mainly works the core, shoulders 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
6–8 reps per variation
Level
Intermediate
Equipment
Reformer, Pilates ball
Body area
Core, Shoulders, Legs
Muscles
Core, Shoulder girdle, Hip flexors
Video tutorial
in the member area
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Starting Position

Footbar down, both hands on the platform, the right foot against the shoulder block, the ball tucked behind the left knee.

Step-by-Step Flow

  1. Lift the knees and extend the right leg into plank, the left knee pointing towards the carriage.
  2. Keep the right leg extended and take only the left leg back and in towards the carriage.
  3. Keep the right leg extended and bring the left knee alternately to the right and to the left elbow.

Cues for Teaching

  • Shoulders stay over the wrists.
  • The ball stays tucked — it tells you immediately whether the leg is holding tension.
  • In the knee-to-elbow the upper back stays broad and the carriage stays quiet.

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 Plank with Ball Behind the KneeWith videoWith video in the plan “Glutes & Core: Single-Side Long Strap”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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