Single Straight Leg Stretch on the C-Shaper

When you get on the C-shaper you will feel where you are losing your center and you will develop the strength to keep it for the next time you do your Mat!

  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Equipment Needed: C-Shaper (I love using the Balanced Body C-Shaper.)
  • Reps: 3-5 each side
  • Warning: May not be suitable for some back issues
  • Questions: Contact us here

Single Straight Leg Stretch on the C-Shaper

** Private online Pilates sessions available with Lesley Logan on request, click here **

When you do Single Straight Leg Stretch on the Mat do you notice what happens to your center when you switch your legs? What about the lift in your chest? Are you able to maintain it? Most of us struggle with keeping the connection as the legs switch in the air. But, when you get on the C-shaper and give it a go not only will you clearly feel where you are losing your connection to your center you will also develop the strength to keep it for the next time you hit your mat! Remember it's not about pulling the leg to your face. Instead, focus on the length of your spine and the pull from your back!

Reach your legs from your seat without locking your knees

Setting up like you did for your Single and Double Leg Stretch, find a place where you can reach long from your back out your toes and also up out through the crown of your head! If you are too low it's easy to slouch and too high you won't have a chance to connect to your partner in crime, your C-shaper. Reach both legs to straight and grab one ankle with both hands while the other leg reaches long across the room. It can only go as low as you can still feel your seat and center connect to it. Bend your elbows wide to the side and feel your arms connect to your back, not your ears.

Pull on your leg from your back two times. Then switch your legs and pull on the opposite leg twice. Repeat this three to five more times. Be mindful of what is happening on the switch. As you pull on your leg feel it more like a "row" from your back. As your legs switch you will want to notice if your back pops off the C-shaper or if you can maintain it's connection as you scissor your legs from your center and your seat! If the "free" leg falls it will be difficult to pick it up from your stomach. Reach only as long as you can from your connections. then try to repeat what you felt without the C-shaper!


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

Loving this Pilates exercise tutorial? Take weekly online Pilates mat classes with Lesley Logan.

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