- Difficulty: Advanced
- Equipment Needed: Mat (I love using the Contrology Folding Mat.)
- Reps: 3-5 each direction and side
- Warning: Not ideal for most lower back issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Single Leg Circles Advanced on the Mat
Pilates Single Leg Circles or One Leg Circles can be challenging. Especially if you’re hamstrings are tight or glutes are weak. However, if you feel like you are rocking your Single Leg Circles on the Pilates Mat then trying this advanced version can be a fun addition. It’s tempting to fall into the flexibility in a hip. However, use the strength of the hip to make these circles and you’ll feel a twist in the waist!
Use the strength of the hip to make these circles and you’ll feel a twist in the waist!
Typically done after Roll Over. If you have handles you will reach your arms into the handles. Or if you have a strap you can use the strap on one leg. Lift the other leg to the ceiling. Point the foot. The leg on the mat, and ankle is flexed. Breathe your low ribs into the mat.
Lift the right hip up. Then as you reach the leg from the hip to circle down the hip will come down. Reach the leg out to the side and back up to the top. Repeat! Then reverse. Open the leg to the side, circle down and as your leg lines up with the hip lift the hip up to reach the leg across the body. Repeat and switch legs.
Shoulders remain wide on the mat not lifting with the leg circles. The opposite hip anchors down throughout the circles.
Be sure to check out more of my Pilates Mat exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Mat training!