Reformer exercise · Intermediate

Upper-body Curl with Rotation

Upper-body Curl with Rotation is an intermediate reformer exercise that mainly works the core. Spring setting: 1× light + 1× medium. 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
Reps: 8–10 reps, then pulses
Level: Intermediate
Equipment: Reformer
Body area: Core
Muscles: Obliques, Rectus abdominis
Video tutorial: in the member area

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Starting Position

Both legs in tabletop, right hand bent behind the head, long left arm toward the ceiling.

Step-by-Step Flow

Reach the long left arm past the right knee and curl.
Extend the left leg into the diagonal (add on).
Hold the rotation toward the right knee and lower and lift only the left leg.
Hold the left leg in the diagonal and add small pulses.

Cues for Teaching

Rotate from the waist, don’t pull from the neck.
Keep the elbow open, gaze follows the diagonal.

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