- Difficulty: Beginner/Intermediate
- Equipment Needed: Mat (I love using the Contrology Folding Mat.)
- Reps: 3-5 sets
- Warning: Not ideal for some knee, hip issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Standing Side Lunge on the Mat
Pilates Standing Side Lunge is one of those old exercises we saw Joseph Pilates doing at his gatherings at Jacobs Pillow. It’s tempting to think of this exercise as any other lunge. But, because it’s Pilates there are of course more parts to it! The key to getting the most out of the Standing Side Lunge on the Pilates Mat is to work both directions! Yes, the in as well. Give this exercise a try after a Mat practice. Or, when you can’t workout on the floor play with this anywhere you can stand up!
The key to getting the most out of the Standing Side Lunge in Pilates is to work both directions!
Standing with your legs wider then you hips turn both legs out. Reach your arms wide to the sides at shoulder height. Drop your tailbone down and lift your center up.
Without shifting your waist side to side, bend one knee. Use your outer hips to pull that knee aligned with your second toe. Work your straight leg in the opposite direction. Then using both legs inner thighs lift your center up and pull yourself back up to start position. Then switch sides. Repeat side to side.
If going well combine with the Standing Spine Stretch Forward. Parallel the legs, reach arms up and round forward. Pulse through your legs 3x then use your center to round up. Turn the legs out simultaneously and side lunge each way. Then turn the legs parallel and repeat.
Be sure to check out more of my Pilates Mat exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Mat training!