Reformer exercise · Beginner

Side Hinge with Press at the Long Box

Side Hinge with Press at the Long Box is a beginner-level reformer exercise with the long box that mainly works the glutes, hips and core. Spring setting: 1× light. Below you'll find the starting position, the flow in 4 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, Long box
Body area
Glutes, Hips, Core
Muscles
Glutes, Lateral hip, Core
Video tutorial
in the member area
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Starting Position

The box in long-box position on the Reformer, standing sideways in the well, facing left, hands on the hips, the left foot resting on the frame, the right leg slightly bent.

Step-by-Step Flow

  1. Hinge.
  2. Hinge and press against the box.
  3. Hold, with the left leg pressed away.
  4. Keep the leg pressed away and only do the hinge.

Cues for Teaching

  • The hinge comes from the hip — the back stays long.
  • While pressing against the box the pelvis stays square, it doesn’t tip away.
  • In the hold, actively press the foot into the box instead of just leaning.

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 Side Hinge with Press at the Long BoxWith videoWith video in the plan “Reformer for Beginners: All on One Spring”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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