Leg Stretches Side 3 on the Ladder Barrel

Pilates Stretches on the Pilates Ladder Barrel will get your stretch on. But more importantly will challenge your strength and three of the five spine shapes. Stretches Front works your flexion and extension. Stretches Side focuses on the side bending. Stretches Side often called Ballet Stretches Side (even though Joseph Pilates didn’t call them Ballet Stretches) has 4 versions for you to explore. Some will skip part 1 either due to limited mobility in their hip or because they don’t know it. Part 2 is commonly known and done. Part 3 is quite challenging and not as commonly known or done. But adding the challenge of this slide will teach you the connections you need for your Mat and Reformer.

Continue to square your hips as you slide side to side from center!

Typically done from Stretches Side part 2. Align your shoulders over your hips and over your heel. Lift tall through your center. Arms can reach up to the ceiling from your upper back to lift your center. Or, they can be down by your side to assist if you’re new. Wearing shorts or sticky pants? Use a towel to assist under your calf.

Ideally without using your hands, standing in your leg reach your center and barrel leg so it slides on the barrel. And then lift up through your waist and slide back to standing tall. Repeat 2-3x.

Going well? Try out part four of the Stretches Side the lift! Skipping part four? You can transition into Stretches Back or you can sweep the leg forward and to the floor and turn around to switch sides.

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