Reformer exercise · Beginner

Rotation in the Long Strap

Rotation in the Long Strap is a beginner-level reformer exercise that mainly works the core, shoulders and back. 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
Beginner
Equipment
Reformer
Body area
Core, Shoulders, Back
Muscles
Obliques, Upper back, Shoulders
Video tutorial
in the member area
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Starting Position

Sitting or kneeling sideways on the carriage, facing right, the right arm bent in front of the belly, palm toward the belly, the other hand on the hip.

Step-by-Step Flow

  1. Pull the long right arm at shoulder height toward the footbar.
  2. Take the strap with both hands and rotate toward the footbar (optionally coming up onto the knees).
  3. Take the left hand into the long strap too, bend both arms at shoulder height with palms facing forward, and bring the bent arms up overhead.

Cues for Teaching

  • The rotation comes from the rib cage, the pelvis stays quiet.
  • The shoulder stays down, even as the arm pulls.
  • As the arms go overhead, keep the ribs knitted.

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 Rotation in the Long StrapWith videoWith video in the plan “Reformer for Beginners: Starting in the Well”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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