- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Equipment Needed: Ladder Barrel and Weights (I love using the Balanced Body Ladder Barrel.)
- Reps: 3 sets of 3
- Warning: May not be ideal for some hip, shoulder or low back issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Horseback on the Ladder Barrel
Pilates Horseback is not many Pilates lover’s favorite. Horseback on the Pilates Ladder Barrel is one of the best places to practice it! The curve of the barrel makes it kinder on your inner thighs. You don’t have to control a Reformer carriage and springs while also trying to hug a box and maintain length in your spine. Giving yourself or your client plenty of time to enjoy Horseback on the Ladder Barrel is key to their Horseback on the Reformer connections.
Focus more on the length in your spine and reach of your arms and legs.
Holding 1 or 2 lb weights in your hands sit on top of the barrel. Reaching your legs straight. Lift them up so they are aiming for parallel to the floor. Feet flexed and legs hugging the barre. Place your hands at your hip creases. Palms up.
Hugging the barrel with your inner thighs and outer hips simultaneously point your feet, reach your arms forward from where your arms meet your back with your palms up and round your spine. Your hips may lift off the barrel. But if you have to drop your legs to lift your hips flex your ankles sit down and reset.
Whether your hips lift or not if you find the longest round shape while still hugging your legs into the barrel and holding them up begin to circle your arms with palms up out to the side, down and back forward 3x. After your last circle bend your elbows, flex your ankles and sit down on the barrel. Reset and repeat 1-2 more sets.
Be sure to check out more of my Pilates Ladder Barrel exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Ladder Barrel training!
