Thigh Stretch with Arm Springs on the Cadillac

Thigh Stretch is a Pilates exercise that occurs on many different pieces of equipment. Thigh Stretch with Arm Springs on the Pilates Cadillac or Tower is a variation of the Thigh Stretch with the Roll Back Bar. It’s more difficult than the Roll Back Bar so use it as a challenge if you’re feeling good about your Thigh Stretch with the Roll Back Bar switch your bar for your handles! You’ll discover very quickly which side of your body is doing the work and which side is going along for the ride. Also, check out the Chest Expansion with Arm Springs.

Notice if one arm is pressing down lower or lifting higher as you move.

-Lesley Logan

Either switch the Roll Back Bar with your handles or use your arms springs with your handles at the Roll Back Bar setting. Set yourself up the same way you would for Thigh Stretch with the bar. One arms distance from the poles plus a few inches. Hold one handle in each hand. Make sure your thumb is on the opposite side of your fingers for safety. Knees and feet are a fist distance apart. Reach your knees down and hug them energetically towards each other. Stack your shoulders over your hips over your knees.

Maintaining a straight line from your head to your knees lean your body back towards your feet. Go only as far as you can keep your knees reaching down. Notice if one arm is higher or lower than the other. Lift back up in one straight line and repeat. If going well add in the extension. Lean back in one line and hold at a level where you can keep your hips where they are, continue reaching down through your knees as you backbend your upper back. Your hips or lower back will want to lift. Keep them exactly in the same spot! Return from your backbend to your straight line and come back up to start. Repeat.

Be sure to check out more of my Pilates Cadillac exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Cadillac training!