- Difficulty: Advanced
- Equipment Needed: Ladder Barrel and Pole (I love using the Balanced Body Ladder Barrel.)
- Reps: 3-6 each side
- Warning: Not ideal for those with hip or back issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Side Sit Ups Advanced on the Ladder Barrel
Pilates exercises often have another level you might not think is possible at first. And then as your practice progresses you begin to want to try it out! Side Sit Ups on the Pilates Ladder Barrel is one of those exercises. At first sight you might think “no way!” Or, “Why would anyone need that?” But then as your Ladder Barrel practice and your Side Sit Ups get stronger you desire to give it a go. And, when you are able to do it you get excited! An exercise that allows you to feel like an athlete or gymnast without having to be one! When learning this exercise at first be sure to use a wall to reach into, have someone nearby as well.
Bottom leg reaches from outer & inner thigh. Top leg pulls in to reach out.
Typically done from Side Sit Ups after doing several reps taking the top leg off the 2nd from the top rung, reaching the leg straight and to the high diagonal to the side. If new, use a wall to reach your straight leg into.
With your top leg reaching out to the high diagonal hands behind your head or reaching to straight and eventually holding wide on a pole lift your waist up and over your barrel. Go only as low as you can keep length in both sides while reaching both legs long. Lift your waist back up and over an imaginary barrel towards the ladder. Repeat. Switch sides when ready.
Be sure to check out more of my Pilates Ladder Barrel exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Ladder Barrel training!