Long Stretch

There are so many exercises found within the classical Pilates method that are misleading. This one, is one of the biggest offenders, in my opinion. This is long stretch on the reformer. It's the first exercise found within the long stretch series (including long stretch, up stretch, down stretch, elephant).  

When I hear "long stretch" I think "oh, great! I get a break and I get a long stretch. As in stretch for a long time. Literally." Couldn't be more wrong.

This exercise is traditionally done on two springs. It can be done on one or none to make things more challenging! Within this exercise, the complete coordination of the body is required. Abdominals must remain tight and engaged in order to slide the carriage out and pull it back in with control.

It is one of my favorite exercises to begin advancing clients. It requires concentration, precision and control and is a great stability challenge.