- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Equipment Needed: Cadillac, Ballet Stretches (I love using the Contrology Cadillac.)
- Reps: 3 of each variation
- Warning: May not be suitable for some hip issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Ballet Stretches Side on the Cadillac
Ballet Stretches Side on the Pilates Cadillac, also known as Standing Stretches with Fuzzies (part 2), is amazing for helping you find the reach you need in exercises like Side Leg Kicks, Going Up Side and more. Not only will this open up your hips, it’s purpose is to challenge your reach in these positions. In Pilates, even when you see the word “stretch” in a name it’s not about stretching. It’s always about the strength. Can you stand in your legs as you challenge your side body reach and flexibility? Find out in this version of the Stretches.
Use your strength to find the longest side bend in both directions.
From Part One, place your fuzzy foot back on the pole and turn your standing leg out as you turn your body to face the side of the Cadillac. Place your hands in front of your face for an easier version. Or, lift your arms up to the sky and do it without holding on! Make sure your hip isn’t sticking out, that your whole foot is pressing into the pole and your standing leg is reaching from your seat. It’s easy to hang out in your joints. Lift your chest tall and shoulders on your back.
Step 1: Take your outside arm up and over as you side bend over your leg without bending either knee. Lift tall switch hands. Either place your hand on to the bar in front of your face or reach it in front of your body as you counter stretch the other way. Remember that all side bends are the same. You are working your way “up and over.”
Step 2: Take your fuzzy foot off the pole and reach it in front of the pole. Then repeat what you did on the first version. Reach your legs into the splits and then pull back and get some traction. Always staying in your muscles. Repeat each version 2-3.
Be sure to check out more of my Pilates Cadillac exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Cadillac training!