- Difficulty: Beginner
- Equipment Needed: Reformer (I love using the Contrology Reformer.)
- Reps: 5-10x
- Warning: May not be suitable for some shoulder or lower back issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Stomach Massage Hands Back on the Reformer
Stomach Massage Hands Back on the Pilates Reformer, also known as the exercise that takes your pants down, is one of the best for teaching your body how to reach from your back! If you are trying to do exercises like Hip Circles, Leg Pull Back and Long Back Stretch, then Stomach Massage Hands Back is where you want to work on not hanging out in your shoulders, elbows and lower back! The more you lift out of your seat and reach from your back, the easier it is to do this exercise, other exercises and keep your pants on!
Press from the back of your legs, lift chest, soft elbows, hug heels.
Typically done on three springs although you can do it with two, especially if you’re using too much leg to do the exercise on three springs. Place your hands back on the top of the shoulder blocks. Ideally, hands are on the very top and palms facing you. However, it’s better to have a connection to your back than have the ideal placement. Play with your hands being on the corners or working their way down the sides of the blocks. Always check in on if you need the modification you’re using. Feet are the same as Stomach Massage Round.
Press your legs to straight as you also lift your upper seat so not to sink down and lose your pants. Once legs are straight, lower the heels and then lift them. Then bend your knees and return home without losing the lift you got when your legs pressed to straight. Repeat 5-10x. It’s really easy to make this about the knees straightening. Remember to press from the back of your legs and reach your arms from your back. If it feels like your shoulders are in your ears, they are. Soften your elbows, lift your armpits but lower your shoulders. And when you have learned the exercise find your flow.
Be sure to check out more of my online Pilates Reformer exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Reformer training!