Reformer exercise · Beginner

Seated Twist with Ball at the Footbar

Seated Twist with Ball at the Footbar is a beginner-level reformer exercise with Pilates ball that mainly works the core, hips and legs. Spring setting: 1× light (1× medium for more support). Below you'll find the starting position, the flow in 4 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 per variation
Level
Beginner
Equipment
Reformer, Pilates ball
Body area
Core, Hips, Legs
Muscles
Obliques, Rectus abdominis, Quadriceps
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Starting Position

Sitting on the carriage facing the footbar, ball behind the lower back, hands stretched long forward, balls of the feet on the footbar.

Step-by-Step Flow

  1. Open the carriage and close it again.
  2. Hold the carriage open and bring the right leg into tabletop. As you close, extend the right leg long over the footbar.
  3. Hold the carriage open, the right leg stays in tabletop, hands behind the head — twist toward the right knee.
  4. Hold the twist and pulse into the ball.

Cues for Teaching

  • The ball supports the lower back — lean into it deliberately.
  • In the twist the rib cage rotates, the pelvis stays quiet.
  • The shoulders stay wide, the elbows in your field of view.

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