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Single Leg Stretch (Ab Series 1/5) on the C-Shaper

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  • June 15, 2019
single leg stretch (ab series 1) on the c shaper online pilates classes
  • Difficulty: Beginner/Intermediate
  • Equipment Needed: C-Shaper (I love using the Balanced Body C-Shaper.)
  • Reps: 3 sets
  • Warning: May not be suitable for some low back issues
  • Questions: Contact us here

Single Leg Stretch (Ab Series 1/5) on the C-Shaper

Single Leg Stretch also called Single Leg Pull in Pilates is one of the best foundational exercises and starts off the Pilates Abdominal Series of 5! However, it’s easy to lean too much into the “stretch” part of this exercise and miss out on the great connections Single Leg Stretch has for us. Which is why using the Pilates C-Shaper is key! One leg is reaching and working from the center while the other leg is simultaneously stretching the hip while trying to work its way out of your hands.

The arms are working hard from your upper back. Finding a “row” from the upper back vs a bicep curl.

Hardest part of the Single Leg Stretch is the switch! Can you keep your connections together? The C-Shaper will let you know!

Pull waist back as you switch leg and arms pull from your upper back.

Lay in the C-Shaper likely in the same place you did for the Hundred or Roll Up. It should feel like a possible challenge to find the longest round shape. Bring both knees into your chest and place the outside hand on your ankle and inside hand closer to your knee. For example, if you are starting with the right leg place the right hand on the ankle and the left hand just below your knee. If any knee issues both hands can go behind your thigh. Elbows wide to the side, shoulders wide on your back. Stretch the “free” leg out to eye level or higher if needed.

Pull on your bent leg 2x then without losing connection to the C-Shaper switch your legs and repeat.

Going Well? Transition to the Double Leg Stretch and the rest of the Ab Series. Then try it on the Mat!


Be sure to check out more of my Pilates C-Shaper workout videos. I want to help you continue your Pilates C-Shaper training!

By Lesley Logan

Lesley Logan, a 2nd generation certified Pilates teacher, breathwork, habits and mindset coach, is the founder of OnlinePilatesClasses.com, the first free online catalogue of Pilates exercise tutorials, where you can also find weekly Pilates classes and workshops. Teaching Pilates since 2008, she has run multiple studios, has trained hundreds of people to become teachers themselves and has taught thousands of students around the world. When not teaching from her studio in Las Vegas, Lesley she’s hosting her podcast Be It Till You See it or traveling the world leading Pilates retreats. Connect with Lesley on Instagram @lesley.logan or through the contact page on this site.

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UP, UP, & AWAY

ONLINE MAT, REFORMER, CADILLAC & WUNDA CHAIR PILATES CLASS DESCRIPTIONS:

We are all going to feel like Super Humans after this month!!

Whenever I’m in a hard exercise (for me) where I’m holding myself up with my arms and reaching my legs away I picture myself with super human strength!!! I can do ANYTHING! It makes me smile and helps me stay STRONG.

This month our exercise is Up Stretch and when you think about it - reaching your legs away and staying strong over the carriage may feel a lot like flying!

We’ll be focusing on stabilizing our strong cores while staying equally balanced in our arms and legs. We are giving you some amazing building blocks by merging strength and stretch in all directions. You are going to get a little bit of everything that you can use to connect to your Up Stretch (and even your Roll Up and Knee Stretches Off).

Chair: Please have a foam roller and a balance pad available. We are going to challenge your balance safely.

xx-LL

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Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

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This week we’re using a small ball to level up your Pilates connections and add just the right amount of spice to familiar moves. Expect fresh variations, midline-igniting challenges, and that “ohhh, there it is” feeling. Perfect for all levels with options to progress.

Props Needed : small ball, sitting box

See you in class,
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>> Wondering what mat I’m using? You can find out more here.

REFORMER EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Your awesome self, pole and a reformer!

>> Wondering what reformer I’m using? You can find out more here.


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Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

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The pole acts as a helpful tool, giving you direct feedback if you are working from your center and where you can soften.

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Props Mat: Pole (1 yard length) or broomstick
Reformer: Pole, Box

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Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

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Props needed : Rod

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MAT EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

>> Wondering what mat I’m using? You can find out more here.

REFORMER EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

>> Wondering what reformer I’m using? You can find out more here.


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Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

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Props: pole - swiffer handle or stick

See you in class,
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Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

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See you in class,
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MAT EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Your awesome self and a Mat!

>> Wondering what mat I’m using? You can find out more here.

REFORMER EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Your awesome self and a Reformer!

>> Wondering what reformer I’m using? You can find out more here.


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Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

Let’s focus on building the support for backbends. We’ll be opening the hips, strengthening the backside, and activating the front body to support a smooth, supported arch. And if your spine isn’t into full backbends, don’t you worry! This class is still for you. You’ll improve posture, shoulder mobility, and create more space through the front body. It’s less about bending, more about balance and support.

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See ya in class,
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Props needed:
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See ya in class,
xx-LL

BREATHE IT IN

Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

Back by popular demand entire workouts led by our breath. We'll use inhales and exhales to get the most out of our work. And, perhaps some exercises that have felt challenging will have a bit more flow! 

See ya in class,
xx-LL

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>> Wondering what mat I’m using? You can find out more here.

REFORMER EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Your awesome self and a reformer.

>> Wondering what reformer I’m using? You can find out more here.


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Online Mat & Reformer Pilates Class Descriptions:

Feel like a baller in 30 minutes flat with the Reformer and Mat this week.

This week we’re using a small ball to level up your Pilates connections and add just the right amount of spice to familiar moves. Expect fresh variations, midline-igniting challenges, and that “ohhh, there it is” feeling. Perfect for all levels with options to progress.

Props Needed : small ball, sitting box

See you in class,
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ONLINE MAT & REFORMER PILATES CLASS DESCRIPTIONS:

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No props on the Reformer.

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>> Wondering what mat I’m using? You can find out more here.

REFORMER EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Your awesome self and a Reformer!

>> Wondering what reformer I’m using? You can find out more here.