Tendon Stretch on the Pilates Reformer can be very scary for almost everyone the first time you do it. This Tendon Stretch Prep will have you getting used to letting your head hang low, letting your heels dig deep and your center lift tall. All while keeping your springs closed. If you have tight hamstrings, or a tight lower back, give this a try in place of the Tendon Stretch. One day you'll feel confident and ready to keep those hands on the footbar and move that carriage in and out. Until then, enjoy this prep and focus on your two-way stretch.

With two heavy springs on you'll set up as if you are going to do the Tendon Stretch. Have a sticky pad on the edge of the carriage. Place your heels off the carriage. It's easy to do more than your heels but keep it to just your heels. Place your hands on the footbar, lift your center up, head down. I know you want to look forward but don't. Look towards where your legs meet. Keep that neck long. For safety make sure your thumbs are with your fingers. Hug your legs tight together, reach your heels down and lift your lower ribs up.

The Tendon Stretch requires you to keep everything from your setup as you move the carriage in and out. For this prep keep everything from the set up but instead of moving the carriage keep it closed and move one arm forward placing your fingertips on the carriage. Then take your other arm and do the same thing. Without looking forward place your hands back on the footbar. Repeat. The goal is to learn how to keep your legs straight, your heels down and your ribs up. One day, try to move the carriage with your hands on the footbar.