Extend Yourself: How To Backbend Properly In Pilates!

Extending backwards or backbending is not as simple as it sounds, as many clients will bend excessively from the lower spine which can cause injury. 

In Pilates, we recognize the the lower spine has a tendency toward spinal compression, so the key in extension is to inhale, lift the ribs away from the hips and and lengthen from the upper spine first. The shoulders open and pull down the back, while the neck remains long.

This is a completely functional and corrective way to extend backward, as it stretches the anterior muscles including the abdominals, and upper chest, while strengthening the deep back muscles without the risk of causing lower spinal injuries.

Added benefits to spinal extension is that the kidneys and adrenals are stimulated which improves their function. Extension also stretches the anterior neck muscles., improves posture, breathing and self-confidence.

Our Whole Body Instructors are here to assist, and will teach you the correct way to extend and move properly in ALL directions in your Pilates sessions. Call us now at 323-934-7134 to get started on a happy and healthy body in 2022.