- Difficulty: Advanced
- Equipment Needed: High Chair (I love using the Balanced Body Wunda Chair High Back.)
- Reps: 5-10 beats
- Warning: Not ideal for some shoulder issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Reverse Press Up Advanced on the High Chair
Press Up Reverse or Press Up Back on the Pilates High Chair is already a challenging Pilates exercise. However, there is another level of challenge. You can do the advanced version! Press Up Reverse Advancement isn’t just about being advanced at Pilates. It requires your ability to combine the strength of Press Ups while lifting your legs like you’re doing Teaser, Hundred or Pilates Double Straight Leg Stretch. If you can’t do the full advancement don’t worry! There is a way to practice with one leg. And, you can lift both legs to whatever level you’re able to do today. Pilates is a practice.
Work your chest up as your outer hips, inner thighs & core lift legs!
-Lesley Logan
It’s best to do this advancement after doing Press Up Reverse. Often, people do Press Up Front and its advancement. Then lower the pedal down, turn around while on the pedal, and then reset with toes at the front edge of the pedal. One hand on each handle, shoulders on your back, heels together, and toes slightly apart. Reach into the handles to lift the pedal as your legs reach into it. After a few reps, close the spring and reach both legs to straight.
Once your legs are straight and hugging together lift both legs up. Your goal is to get them level with your hips without leaning your hips back. Its so easy for your hips to swing back and your hip flexors to lift your legs. Instead, reach your legs towards the floor and then out to lift them up. If you can’t get them to the level of your hips only lift them as high as your entire center is holding your legs up. Its ok if that is only a little bit towards “up.” Then beat your legs open and closed!
Not ready to lift both legs at the same time? Keep one leg reaching into the pedal and stretch the other leg to the level of your hips. Hold! Then place it down and switch.
Take your time working this advancement. One leg at a time helps!
Be sure to check out more of my Pilates High Chair exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates High Chair training!